The Top 10 Questions for Our Ordinary World

Originally Submitted on 2/13/2001.

Joseph Campbell discovered that despite cultural differences all mythological characters follow the same path of development. His 20th Century classic, The Hero with a Thousand Faces, has been discussed in literature, film, writing, and psychology.
The first of twelve stages of the Hero's Journey is look at the ordinary world we live in and the limited awareness of our problems. We travel through this stage before we receive the call to adventure.

Heroes may have no obvious missing piece, flaw, or wound. They may merely be restless, uneasy or out of sync with their environment or culture. They may be getting by, trying to adjust to unhealthy conditions by using various coping mechanisms or crutches such as emotional or chemical dependencies. They may have deluded themselves that everything is all right. -Christopher Vogler, The Writer's Journey.

1. What causes you not to want to leave the ordinary world?

Usually the hero has a fear of the unknown or a fear of losing what he has previously gathered on past adventures.

2. How do you belong to this world?

The hero shares a past with the community around her. She knows this world well and understands the rules to live by in this society.

3. Why do you not belong to this world?

The world the hero lives in either becomes too comfortable or too small. Perhaps he's never been truly comfortable. There is little room for growth.

4. What external conflicts are affecting you?

External conflicts (death, stress, competition) can lead the hero to make reactionary goals.

5. What internal conflicts are affecting you?

The exploration of our inner flaws can be our roadmap to adventure.

6. What strengths/resources do you have to get you through the change?

You are a worthy hero. Name the qualities/experiences that prove it.

7. What are you lacking?

Name the missing element from your life that is keeping you from being full.

8. What past experiences have prepared you for this change?

Use the past to move you forward.

9. What catalyzes your growth?

A kidnapping or promise of treasure quickens the hero's pace through the story. What motivates you to change?

10. What conditions must be present to hear "The Call to Adventure?"

Before the hero can hear the call, she will experience loss, discomfort, pain, or promise of something better than the ordinary world. This is a normal stage of development and a sign that a message will be arriving.

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