Learning how to build strong self-esteem changed my life. 

It improved my relationships, my work, my ability to plan—and it stabilized my emotions.

Reading Atlas Shrugged was key to learning that lesson. I admired Dagny Taggart, the fearless, intelligent heroine who knew her worth and went after what she wanted. But I also sympathized with Hank Rearden, who was morally upright, even heroic in some ways, but he had a lot to learn in others.

I wanted to be Dagny—but as a college student, I felt a lot more like Hank. I had strengths, but my relationships were messy and confusing because of my low self-esteem and contradictions in my thinking.

Pondering Hank’s journey helped me both to learn the same lessons that he’d learned and to imagine how similar change might look in my life. And when I found myself in difficult situations, sometimes I imagined what Dagny would do if she were in my shoes.  

Of course, Atlas Shrugged isn’t the only novel with inspiring character arcs. From 18th-century classics to modern-day fiction, many great authors have given us such gifts. 

Because such character arcs have inspired me, I can’t wait to explore them with you at LevelUp Europe. We’ll discuss what exactly character arcs consist of and how we can use them to fuel our personal growth.

Register now to take advantage.