Consistency Over Chaos: My Vocal 2024 Strategy

As Vocal's 200th challenge unfolds, I find myself at a unique crossroads, reflecting on the past year and envisioning my aspirations for 2024. Despite a somewhat unexpected commitment due to a forgotten membership renewal, I view this as an opportunity to reignite my passion for writing and deepen my connection with the Vocal community.

In the past year, the evolving landscape of Vocal has shaped my goals. The dwindling number of challenges initially demoralized me, but now, armed with renewed determination, I aim to take a more consistent approach to utilizing this platform. The unexpected financial commitment serves as a reminder to embrace this opportunity fully and make the most of the resources at my disposal.

My love for crafting vignettes has been a constant, and in 2024, I'm committed to delving deeper into the art of structuring these concise yet impactful narratives. Each piece will be a canvas to explore the nuances of storytelling, capturing moments that resonate with readers on a profound level.

One exciting challenge that I've set for myself is a daily writing endeavor – Fan Fiction February. This commitment not only ensures a regular writing practice but also serves as a personal challenge to explore diverse themes and styles. It's a journey of self-discovery through daily creative expression.

The disappointment of being unable to pursue a PhD in creative writing due to financial constraints has been a lingering struggle. However, I've chosen to redefine success and view my writing as a constant outlet for joy and levity. Engaging more with the Vocal community is not about redemption but a celebration of resilience and a commitment to growth.

Armed with an MA in Travel and Nature Writing, my curiosity extends to the exploration of positionality in writing, particularly in the realms of nature writing and quest narratives. In 2024, I aspire to unravel the intricate threads that connect personal perspectives to storytelling. How does one's positionality influence the portrayal of nature, and how does it shape the narrative in quest-driven tales? These questions will guide my exploration, adding depth and authenticity to my work.

My commitment to growth goes beyond personal aspirations. I aim to actively support fellow creators within the Vocal community. Whether through collaborative projects, constructive feedback, or simply being a supportive presence, I want to contribute to a thriving and interconnected network of writers.

Vocal challenges, despite their occasional scarcity, remain pivotal in shaping my creative journey. They offer a framework for exploration, pushing boundaries and providing prompts that encourage stepping outside comfort zones. Embracing these challenges will not only hone my skills but also foster a sense of camaraderie with the larger Vocal community. I sort of accountability I miss from academia accessed through the democratisation of storytelling via Vocal.

On my quest to elevate my writing on Vocal, I aspire to share stories that, much like Philip Pullman's descriptions of landscapes in the His Dark Materials trilogy, transport readers to vivid and enchanting worlds. Pullman's ability to evoke the essence of places like the hauntingly majestic Northern Lights, the ethereal city of Cittàgazze, and the vast, frozen landscapes of the Arctic has profoundly influenced my appreciation for writing that centers on place and the natural world.

Valuing the transformative power of literature, I recognize that books can act as portals, taking readers on journeys even when their bodies remain stationary. Through my narratives, I hope to weave a tapestry of places, each intricately described to evoke a sense of wonder and connection. Just as Pullman's words transport me to other realms, I aspire to create stories that resonate deeply and linger in the hearts of my readers, offering a virtual escape that transcends the boundaries of physical travel.

As I pen down these aspirations, I recognize the significance of accountability. Vocal's 200th challenge serves as a starting point, and I eagerly anticipate revisiting these goals at the year's end. This journey is not just about meeting expectations but exceeding them, evolving as a creator, and leaving a positive impact on Vocal – a community that might become an integral part of my creative odyssey with ADHD.