By Peter de Kuster

Introduction: When the Search for Others Becomes a Search for Self

Missing You is more than a gripping mystery—it’s a story about the courage to seek truth in a world of secrets and lies. When those we love vanish, we’re forced to confront not only the world’s dangers but also the stories we tell ourselves about trust, identity, and resilience. As creative leaders, we all face moments when the familiar disappears, and we must become the hero of our own journey. Will you rise to the challenge, or let the story be written for you?

Plot Summary: A Daughter’s Relentless Search

June Allen, a rebellious teenager, is left alone when her mother, Grace, heads to Colombia with her boyfriend Kevin. When they fail to return, June’s world is upended. With authorities unable to help, June takes the investigation into her own hands—hacking emails, tracing digital footprints, and enlisting the help of Javier, a resourceful gig worker in Colombia. As she digs deeper, June uncovers layers of deception: Kevin’s criminal past, Grace’s hidden identity, and a web of lies stretching back to her own childhood. The search leads June to Nevada, where she discovers her supposedly dead father orchestrated the entire plot for revenge. In a harrowing climax, June and Grace fight for survival and, in the process, rebuild their fractured relationship—emerging stronger, wiser, and more connected than ever

The Hero’s Journey and 12 Archetypes in Missing You

Let’s walk through June’s journey—and reflect on your own leadership story at each phase.

1. Ordinary World (The Everyman)

June lives a typical teenage life, annoyed by her mother’s protectiveness.
Reflection: Where are you taking the everyday for granted, missing the deeper story unfolding around you?

2. Call to Adventure (The Explorer)

Grace disappears, and June is thrust into uncertainty.
Reflection: What unexpected challenge is calling you to step up as a creative leader?

3. Refusal of the Call (The Orphan)

Authorities offer little help; June feels overwhelmed and alone.
Reflection: When have you doubted your ability to solve a problem or lead through crisis?

4. Meeting the Mentor (The Sage)

Javier, a gig worker, becomes June’s unlikely guide in Colombia.
Reflection: Who are your unexpected mentors, and how do you seek wisdom in unfamiliar places?

5. Crossing the Threshold (The Rebel)

June hacks into accounts and takes bold risks to find her mother.
Reflection: When have you broken the rules for a higher purpose in your own story?

6. Tests, Allies, Enemies (The Warrior, The Trickster, The Lover)

June faces betrayals, forms alliances, and navigates shifting loyalties.
Reflection: Who are your true allies? How do you handle betrayal or shifting trust?

7. Approach to the Inmost Cave (The Creator)

June uncovers her mother’s secret past and faces the truth about her family.
Reflection: What hidden truths must you confront to move forward as a leader?

8. Ordeal (The Hero)

June is kidnapped and comes face-to-face with her father’s betrayal.
Reflection: How do you respond when your story reaches its darkest moment?

9. Reward (The Ruler)

June and Grace escape, armed with hard-won truth and a renewed bond.
Reflection: What strengths or wisdom have you gained from overcoming adversity?

10. The Road Back (The Caregiver)

June and Grace begin to heal, learning to trust and communicate anew.
Reflection: How do you nurture relationships and rebuild after crisis?

11. Resurrection (The Magician)

June emerges transformed, wiser, and more connected to her mother.
Reflection: How have your greatest challenges changed you for the better?

12. Return with the Elixir (The Sage)

June’s journey ends with new understanding and a stronger sense of self.
Reflection: What lessons will you bring back to your team, your family, your creative work?

Conclusion: Be the Author of Your Legend

Missing You reminds us: the search for others is often a search for ourselves. In times of uncertainty, you are the only one who can write your own legend. Will you rise to the occasion, or let your story be dictated by circumstance?

Questions to Take Away

• Where are you on your own hero’s journey?
• Which archetype do you embody most—and which do you need to develop?
• What secrets or truths are waiting to be uncovered in your story?
• Who are your unexpected mentors and allies?
• What story do you want to tell about your leadership and legacy?

Story Coaching with Peter de Kuster

Are you ready to become the hero of your own story? My story coaching is designed for creative leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals who want to transform their narrative and unlock their true potential.

Who is this for?

• Creative professionals and leaders seeking clarity and inspiration
• Anyone ready to move beyond old stories and create a new legend for themselves

Benefits:

• Clarity on your purpose and mission
• Tools to rewrite limiting stories and unlock new possibilities
• A personalized Hero’s Journey map for your life and business
• Greater confidence, creativity, and impact

Price:
One hour online coaching session: €295 (excluding VAT)

Ready to take the next step?
Contact me at peter@wearesomeone.nl

Because your story is your life. And you are the storyteller.