This is an 8-part Antihero Overview Series, where you’ll learn and quickly apply key concepts at every stage of the Antihero’s Journey. You can find links to previous parts of the series at the bottom this newsletter.
We’re at the last stage. After going through the Antihero’s Journey, your most compelling question might be, "What does this all really look like?"
It looks like you.
But let's delve into what that statement actually means. You didn't become an antihero because it was the honorable thing to do.
You chose the path of the antihero out of necessity. It was the new narrative that best fit your current life decisions and trajectory. It instilled hope in you. Let's see why.
What Is Honor?
You've been reading about honor and reclaiming it, but I haven't defined what honor is to the antihero. It's two things. Your honor is:
The Giver's powerful purpose placed on you.
Your noble character in the story you're living.
See the connection? Attaining and keeping honor is a collaborative effort. It is the calling that was given to you before you even knew what you were passionate about. And it is your response to the calling, which also develops your character in the process.
Honor isn't about the recognition, awards, or money. Many honorable people are recognized posthumously—after they die. Oftentimes their work or purpose isn't fully realized and appreciated until long after the residual effects of greatness have taken place.
This is why honor will always be greater than success. You may never see prosperity in the capacity you expect. Yet, the noble character you develop by fulfilling your purpose grants a level of respect, glory and integrity beyond being “successful.”
Reclaiming Your Honor
Reclaiming your honor means exactly that: You once had it. Then forfeited it. And now you’re striving to regain it. What did you originally have then forfeit? Your divine calling and noble character.
Stage Seven: Restoration
So, what does restoration look like? It looks like you fulfilling what you were born to do. It looks like you achieving significant mastery of:
Yourself. Stellar self-discipline. Accountability for your actions. Optimal mental, physical and spiritual health.
Your environment. Perseverance in harsh situations. Efficiently using resources in your possession. Networking and serving your community.
Your calling. This one is a bit tricky, because the Giver doesn’t call those who are already qualified—He qualifies those he called. But mastery is still expected here. This is about affirming your purpose by adopting and refining the skills needed to keep answering the call that was already given to you.
These are just a few examples. And it's your life's work. Once restored, you have to sustain your restoration. Stage 7 isn't a status. It's a way of life.
What's Next?
Check out the antihero map below so you can begin applying the last week of reading and reflection.
Be on the lookout for more free and premium resources that'll help you develop into an honorable antihero.
You've gone through all seven stages with helpful tips on how to progress through each stage. Tips are great, but you can't tip-toe your way through being an antihero.
Fill out the antihero map and don't worry if it's not accurate the first or second time around. This is an imperfect, messy process with a lot of moving parts.
Restoration awaits,
Chris Bartley