How to Write Better Stories with the Hero’s Journey

(Because Every Good Story Needs a Hero — and That Hero Might Be You)

Ever watched a movie and thought, “Haven’t I seen this story before?”

A young underdog gets thrown into a big challenge. They resist it. They meet a mentor. Face a heap of trials. Lose hope. Dig deep. And somehow — just when it matters — rise up to save the day.

It’s not a coincidence. It’s a pattern — one that’s shown up in thousands of stories, from Star Wars to Moana, The Hunger Games to Harry Potter. It’s called the Hero’s Journey, and it was mapped out by a mythologist named Joseph Campbell.

But here’s the cool bit: this isn’t just a Hollywood formula — it’s one of the most useful storytelling tools you can learn. Especially if you’re a student writing creative pieces in English and want your story to actually work. Even better? You don’t need to write fantasy or sci-fi. The Hero’s Journey works for any genre — comedy, realism, memoir, dystopia, you name it.

So let’s break it down: here are 12 key stages of the Hero’s Journey — and how you can use them to turn your next story into something worth reading (and something worth marking).

1. The Ordinary World

This is where we meet your main character in their normal, everyday life. They might be stuck, bored, invisible, or just… average. Think suburban street, school hall, outback town — whatever feels familiar. Why it works: It helps readers connect before the wild stuff starts. Aussie example: A teenager stuck working at the servo in a tiny town with one footy team, one bakery and no way out.

2. The Call to Adventure

Something disrupts that normal world — a letter, a challenge, a weird dream, a new person, a sudden threat. The “safe zone” is no longer safe. Why it works: It kicks your story into gear. Try this: Your character gets invited to a secret camp, overhears a conspiracy, or finds out their sibling is missing.

3. Refusal of the Call

Heroes don’t usually leap into action. They hesitate. Doubt. Come up with excuses. And that’s good — it makes them real. Why it works: Readers relate to fear. It builds tension. Try this: Your hero tries to back out. Pretends it’s not their problem. Leaves the letter unread.

4. Meeting the Mentor

A mentor steps in. Someone older, wiser, or just really good at giving cryptic advice. They guide the hero or give them the tools they need. Why it works: No one gets through the journey alone. Think: A teacher. A grandparent. A busker. An ex-fighter turned quiet librarian.

5. Crossing the Threshold

This is the point of no return. The hero steps into the unknown — the forest, the city, the school dance, the protest, the plan. There’s no going back now. Why it works: It marks a shift. Stakes are rising. Example: The moment the character sneaks out, boards the train, or clicks “send” on something they can’t undo.

6. Tests, Allies, and Enemies

Here’s where the real fun starts. The hero faces challenges, meets allies, and starts discovering who’s with them — and who’s not. Why it works: It builds the world and the tension. Pro tip: Mix it up — not every test needs to be life-threatening. An awkward party, a public speech, or a personal betrayal can be just as powerful.

7. The Approach to the Inmost Cave

The “cave” is a metaphor — it’s the big challenge ahead. The scariest bit. It’s where the thing they fear most is waiting. Why it works: It slows the pace before the climax. Time to feel the weight. Try this: The hero reflects. Makes a tough choice. Has a last-minute panic.

8. The Ordeal

This is the heart of the story — the biggest challenge. A battle, a confession, a rescue mission, a sacrifice. Everything changes here. Why it works: It’s emotional. It’s personal. It reveals who the hero really is. Think: Showdown on the oval. A speech that risks everything. A call that changes a life.

9. The Reward

The hero survives — and gains something. A truth. A friendship. A power. A second chance. It might be small, but it matters. Why it works: It shows growth. This isn’t the same person we met at the start. Try this: Don’t go for gold medals — go for insight, peace, or belonging.

10. The Road Back

They’ve won something — but now they have to return. And the journey back is never easy. The world has changed. And so have they. Why it works: It adds depth. The journey isn’t over yet. Try this: A final twist. A goodbye. A cost that has to be paid.

11. Resurrection

One last test. A final chance to prove the change is real. Often, this is the moment where the hero risks everything again — but this time, as a new version of themselves. Why it works: It shows transformation in action. Example: A student who once stayed silent now stands up. A friend who once ran, now stays.

12. Return with the Elixir

The story ends with the hero returning — to school, to family, to reality — but now they have something to offer. Something they’ve earned. Why it works: It wraps the arc. The journey meant something. Think: A wiser version of themselves walking into the same room… but no longer the same person.

In Conclusion: Your Character Is the Hero. Your Story Is the Journey.

The Hero’s Journey isn’t just a writing trick — it’s a blueprint that helps your story flow, your character grow, and your reader care. You don’t have to use every step. You don’t have to write an epic fantasy. But if you want your story to stick — if you want it to mean something — then this structure gives you the scaffolding to make it work.

So next time you stare at a blank page, wondering how to start or where to go next… remember this:

Create a character. Give them something to want.

Throw a challenge in their path.

Give them something to fear.

Give them a journey.

And watch what happens.

You’ve got this.

This blog post was created by Felstead Education. We deliver a range of literacy programs tailored for the needs of primary, secondary and senior school students. Our programs help to generate a love of the written word amongst students, build their confidence and skill set in their writing and help to reduce anxiety around essay writing and storytelling. Some of our programs include Essay Experts and The Storyteller’s Toolkit

To find out more about how we can help your students to be well and do well, visit us at www.felstead.com.au or email: info@felstead.com.au