Joseph Campbell was a researcher looking for the hidden threads that connect our human stories, no matter where we come from. He found that certain themes crop up time and again across cultures, as if they speak a kind of universal language of what it means to be human.

Together, these themes form what Campbell called the 'Hero's Journey'. This is a kind of roadmap of life that we all follow, a path of adventure, challenges and transformation.

The steps of the Hero's Journey:

1. The Call: This is when you feel something needs to change in your life. It may be a dream, a desire or a challenge that comes your way. You can choose to follow this call or ignore it.
2. The Threshold: If you accept the call, you face a challenge that takes you out of your comfort zone. It is a test to see if you are really ready for the journey.
3. The Unknown: When you cross the threshold, you enter a world full of new experiences and lessons. It is exciting, but also a little scary, because you don't know what to expect.
4. The Guide: Fortunately, you often find someone who can help you. This could be a teacher, a friend or even a stranger who has the wisdom you need to move forward.
5. The Challenge: On your path, you will encounter challenges. These 'demons' are not always bad; they are challenges to overcome and help you grow.
6. The Transformation: By facing these challenges, you change. You learn new skills, find new tools and discover strengths you never knew you had.
7. The Completion: Finally, you complete your mission. You have learned what you needed to learn and proven yourself. You have found a new way of looking at the world.
8. The Return: As a changed person, you return from your adventure. You bring back new insights and wisdom that you can share with others.

The Hero's Journey is not just a story found in books or movies. It is a story we all live, every day. It is the journey of growth, discovery and self-development.