How Nike, Apple and Coca-Cola used the Hero’s Journey to make their marketing message clear
The Hero’s Journey is a powerful storytelling framework often utilized in marketing to captivate audiences and convey brand messages effectively.
Here are some popular examples of the Hero’s Journey adapted for marketing messages:
Nike’s “Just Do It” Campaign
Nike’s marketing often portrays individuals overcoming obstacles and pushing their limits to achieve success. The hero in this narrative is the ordinary person who strives for greatness, facing challenges and doubts along the way but ultimately triumphing through perseverance and determination.
Apple’s Journey with the iPhone
Apple’s marketing often follows the Hero’s Journey, with the iPhone as the tool that empowers individuals to transform their lives. The hero starts in a mundane world, encounters the iPhone as a solution to their problems, faces challenges in adopting it, but ultimately finds fulfillment and success in incorporating it into their daily lives.
Coca-Cola’s “Share a Coke” Campaign
Coca-Cola’s marketing often revolves around themes of connection and happiness. In the Hero’s Journey, the hero embarks on a quest to spread joy and build relationships. The hero encounters challenges but ultimately triumphs by sharing Coca-Cola with others, fostering moments of connection and happiness.
Dove’s “Real Beauty” Campaign
Dove’s marketing focuses on empowering individuals to embrace their authentic selves. In the Hero’s Journey, the hero embarks on a journey of self-discovery, overcoming societal pressures and insecurities to embrace their true beauty and identity.
Red Bull’s “Gives You Wings” Campaign
Red Bull’s marketing portrays individuals pushing their limits and achieving extraordinary feats. The hero in this narrative embarks on a quest for adventure and self-improvement, fueled by the energy and confidence that Red Bull provides.
Starbucks’ “Third Place” Concept
Starbucks’ marketing revolves around creating a welcoming environment where people can gather and connect. In the Hero’s Journey, the hero seeks a sense of belonging and community, finding it in the comforting atmosphere and social experience of Starbucks cafes.
Disney’s “Dreams Come True” Narrative
Disney’s marketing often centers around themes of magic, imagination, and the power of dreams. The hero in this narrative embarks on a journey to pursue their dreams, overcoming obstacles and discovering their inner strength and potential along the way, with Disney as the facilitator of these transformative experiences.
These examples demonstrate how the Hero’s Journey can be adapted to various marketing messages, resonating with audiences by tapping into universal themes of aspiration, resilience, and personal growth.
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