As We Navigate Life, It Can Be Easy To Get Caught Up In Other People’s Narratives, So Here’s How To Be The Hero Of Your Own Story

nenetus - stock.adobe.com - illustrative purposes only, not the actual person
nenetus - stock.adobe.com - illustrative purposes only, not the actual person

The following column is the opinion and analysis of the writer, Katharina Buczek.

As we navigate life, it can be easy to get caught up in other people’s narratives and lose sight of our own stories. We can start to feel like mere spectators rather than the main characters of our own lives.

But the truth is that you are the hero of your own story. And you have to start acting like it.

I know this is easier said than done, especially if you are feeling lost or unsure of your path. At the end of the day, though, only you have the power to take control of your own narrative and start living the life you know you deserve.

And if you are ready to take that leap but just don’t know where to get started, you don’t have to worry. Here are a few tips to get you on the right path toward reclaiming your life.

1. Define Your Values And Goals

Every movie or literary hero has a mission and a purpose. So in order to be the hero of your own story, you have to know exactly what you are fighting for.

Take a step back and try to look at your life as a whole. What do you truly value? What gets you excited or makes you angry? What do you really want? Who do you want by your side on this journey?

By figuring out these “big picture” questions, you can align your goals and values with who you are at your core and what you truly desire out of life.

nenetus – stock.adobe.com – illustrative purposes only, not the actual person

Afterward, you will walk away with a greater sense of purpose and direction that will help you stay focused on what’s important while cutting out anything in your life that doesn’t serve you.

2. Take Ownership 

If you love rom-coms, then you are definitely familiar with the “damsel in distress” trope or the idea that someone needs to come along and save you.

Quite frankly, though, this idea is just damaging and hinders your belief in your own abilities.

Stop waiting around for someone else– whether that be a parent, friend, or guy– to come along and rescue you. Realize that, at the end of the day, we can only ever rely on ourselves. And that is more than enough.

You have all of the control over your own life. You have the power to dictate your thoughts, actions, and decisions. So, it’s ultimately up to you to make things happen or wallow in the same struggles.

Every day, choose courage over fear. Don’t be afraid to take risks or make mistakes, and own your decisions.

3. Seek Out Challenges

Main characters don’t just hide from obstacles. Sure, they may take a little while to think before they get their bearings.

But, in the end, they always face challenges head-on. You need to do the same.

Stop shying away from difficult or uncomfortable situations and start looking at them as opportunities to grow and learn.

Every single obstacle you choose to confront and overcome will only bring you one step closer to your goals– making you the real hero of your life.

4. Surround Yourself With A Support System

No hero can ever do it alone. Think of the “Hunger Games” or “The Longest Yard.” It may seem cliché, but having a support system is critical for success.

You need to surround yourself with people who support you, encourage you, and believe in your abilities.

Find like-minded friends with similar goals or values, or seek out coaches or mentors who can help you stay on track and achieve your goals.

5. Celebrate Your Successes

As you journey towards becoming the hero of your own story, don’t forget to celebrate your successes along the way.

Whether it’s a small win or a major accomplishment, take the time to acknowledge and appreciate your progress.

Celebrating your successes will help you stay motivated and make you realize that you are on the right path. Afterward, you will feel more empowered to keep moving forward and working toward bigger things.

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Katharina Buczek graduated from Stony Brook University with a degree in Journalism and a minor in Digital Arts. Specializing ... More about Katharina Buczek

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