Saving the world takes more than just super-strength, super speed or ability to fly. It’s also about being kind, compassionate and caring.
What is a superhero?
Is it someone who fights crime and battles cool alien villains? Mmmm, maybe. But if we think harder, a superhero is someone who others turn to for help and who they trust. We are all capable of becoming superheroes – even if we might not think so. Here are 11 ways to become one of Earth’s mightiest heroes.
Step 1
Respect those around you
It doesn’t matter if it’s another human, an animal,
a plant or even an object, always show respect for the things and people around you. Showing respect means accepting others for who they are and being kind to them no matter what. This means greeting someone on the street the same way you would greet your teacher or a family member.
Step 2
Show other people support
If your best friend gets the top spot in class, be happy for them! If your mom says she’s feeling sad, give her a hug or make her a cup of tea. If someone falls on the playground, help them up instead of laughing at them. Be a light to those around you in any way you can – whether it’s just to give a high- five, share your sandwich or keep them company.
Step 3
Strengthen your powers
We all have special talents and skills, but it’s what we do with them that matters most. If you like telling stories, write someone a fun story to brighten their day. If you can make someone’s day easier, help them – wipe the counters or help your teacher carry her bags to the classroom. Use your gifts, practise your skills and work on your talents to make the world a sunnier place!
Step 4
Have courage
Bravery is usually when we charge head-on into new things or challenges. Courage means standing up for what you believe, even if you feel scared or doubtful. If you see someone hurting someone else, stand up and stop it. With each day that passes, you build up your confidence and feel like you can face challenges a lot easier.
Step 5
Have integrity
Be honest and take responsibility for your actions. This also means making sure that what you say and what you do match up – that’s what you call “having integrity”. If you tell someone you are their friend, don’t gossip about them. If you didn’t do your homework, tell your teacher (have courage for this, too!). Keep your promises to others and always make sure you are respectful whenever you say or do anything.
Step 6
Be curious
Learn about the people around you, what is important to them, and the struggles they face. You can also be curious about things like animals, plants and objects. Don’t be afraid to ask questions if you don’t understand something, or you want to know more. Remember to show respect when asking, like first asking the person if they’re okay with speaking about something.
What if a villain attacks me?
There will be people in your life who may make you question everything you believe is right and good. When they appear, remember why you are doing what you are doing and have courage! Show them that their words or actions cannot hurt you – no matter how hard they try!
Step 7
Build a super squad
The Avengers, the Justice League, the X-Men, the Fantastic Four… They all teach us that sometimes teamwork makes the dream work. The trick is to build a team of people that want to live like you do and will fight for what is right. Make friends with those who will stand up for you in a crisis and who will help you follow the steps to becoming a superhero.
Step 8
Rest up
Being a superhero takes a lot of energy! So make sure you sleep a good amount at night. Growing superheroes like yourself need at least nine to 12 hours of sleep. Make sure you brush your teeth and wash your face before you get under the covers. No cheating!
Step 9
Eat well and move
A healthy body means you can do a lot more for those around you. Make sure you eat a good, balanced meal for breakfast, lunch and supper. Try to be as active as you can – this doesn’t mean you have to join the school soccer team! You can play tag with your friends or even throw a ball with your dog in the backyard.
Step 10
Believe in yourself
You may think that being a superhero is impossible! How could you ever help everyone?! Have courage and tell yourself, “I can do this!” When you make a mistake, don’t give up. Learn from it and try again. If you fail or don’t achieve what you wanted, pick yourself up and keep working at it. You only get better as you carry on – and it will be worth it in the end. Every superhero started somewhere!
Step 11
Be a force for good
In every step you take, remind yourself to fight for what is good and right. If a group of kids invite you to steal someone’s lunch, stop them however you can. Protect the kid who may be getting bullied, and tell a teacher if you see something bad happen to someone.
Warning: Do not look for faults in others or find ways to make them look bad. You want to show others that they can trust you, while being honest, caring and respectful. It’s not easy, but someone’s gotta do it.
What comic-book superheroes can teach us
They are not just about flashy suits, cool powers and fighting crime, they also teach us about how to be the best humans we can be:
- Batman teaches us that anyone can be a hero, and you don’t need to be given praise or credit for it.
- Aquaman teaches us about finding balance between the things we care about.
- Spider-Man teaches us that we must make sure to always take responsibility
- The X-Men teach us to be proud of who we are and have courage.
- Hulk teaches us to control our emotions, and that we can use our power for the greater good of the world, near and far.
- Superman teaches us that doing good can help us to find where we belong.
- Iron Man teaches us to think creatively when faced with challenges.
- Captain America teaches us to always be kind and caring.
Words by: Saadiqah Schroeder
Images & illustrations: Freepik, Shutterstock
