Becoming the Hero in Your Own Story

The news of the last few weeks has led me to ponder what a hero is. The vastness of people's visions of what a hero is has been on wide display. The problem, as I see it, is perspective.

We all see ourselves as the hero of our own story. It’s natural—we know our struggles, our battles, and our victories better than anyone else. From our perspective, we’re fighting for what matters, making choices that feel right, and writing the narrative of our lives.

But here’s the twist: every villain in history was also the hero in their own story. Their choices made sense to them. Their goals seemed justified, even righteous. It doesn’t excuse harm, but it does reveal a powerful truth: perspective shapes everything.

Growth Through Perspective

Real growth begins when we step outside the narrow lens of our own story and try to understand how we appear in the lives of others. To someone else, we may be the obstacle, the challenger, or even the “villain” of their story. That realization can feel uncomfortable, but it’s also the beginning of deep empathy and transformation.

When we pause to consider: How do my actions ripple into someone else’s narrative? How do I fit into their story?—we expand beyond self-justification into connection.

From Isolation to Connection

The hero’s journey isn’t about proving our righteousness at all costs. It’s about becoming aware, learning, and opening ourselves to perspectives beyond our own. True heroism lies in that moment of humility: when we recognize that our story isn’t the only story, and that we are interwoven with countless others.

By striving to understand—not just defend—we create space for reconciliation, compassion, and collaboration. We move from isolation into community.

A Call to Action

So today, ask yourself:

• In whose story am I playing a role right now?

• Am I showing up as the villain, the helper, or the encourager?

• What would change if I chose to see through their eyes?

When we live with this awareness, we stop clinging so tightly to being the hero—and instead, we become part of something larger. That’s where real impact begins.

Today's Hero