How To: Be a Real Life Superhero (With or Without the Cape)

So you want to make the world a better place? Maybe start with your block, or your neighborhood. Maybe start with an awesome costume. You don’t need superhuman powers or otherworldly resources to be a Real Life Superhero, just plenty of passion and a taste for the theatrical. We recently spoke with DC’s Guardian, about what it takes to be a costumed crusader for good. He had these six tips for making the world a better place, one neighborhood at a time.

1) Know what you stand for. It’s not a prerequisite to don tights or a mask, but every superhero builds an identity around good morals and values. Likewise, you’ll need a cause (or several) for which to crusade. Look around your community for action groups that need help.

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2) Identify your weapons. And we’re talking personal skills here, not nunchucks. After identifying a cause, ask yourself what you can bring to the table to help fulfill that need. Take stock of your interests and find a way to donate your time and talents in ways that will be compatible with your lifestyle.

3) Dress for the fight. While it doesn’t take spandex to be a Superhero, always come prepared for the task. Whether the job entails managing logistics for a fundraiser, educating local youth, or just showing up to the right place at the right time with the right supplies, you’ll want to be known as a responsible and accountable crusader.

4) Don’t get mistaken for the bad guy. Real Life Superheroes can be activists, volunteers, educators, or neighborhood safety patrollers, but in order to establish an identity as a community crusader for long-term success, you’ll have to work closely with local citizens, civic leaders, and law enforcement. Collaboration and communication are key.

5) Don’t break the law. Never go above the law, and always stand firm behind your actions. As DC’s Guardian says, “If you can’t stand up and say ‘I did this!’ you shouldn’t be doing it.”

6) Be humble. There’s no such thing as a self-serving superhero, in real life or otherwise.

DC’s Guardian is prominent figure in the RLSH community and President of Skiffytown League of Heroes—a national network of original superhero characters dedicated to performing acts of community service.

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