Five Reasons to Enter A Vocal Challenge

"I want to try everything . I want to try even though I could fail."—Shakira, "Try Everything".

New challenges are posted on Vocal regularly. The Summer Fiction Series (SFS) challenges, for example, are in full swing. In case you're only now hearing about the SFS (or challenges in general), don't worry: it's never too late to jump in! You can check out the details of all ongoing challenges here. For many of them, including the SFS, you need to be a Vocal+ member to enter. If you aren't already, you can sign up here.

What Are Challenges and How Do I Win Them?

Challenges offer writing prompts designed to inspire you to create a story and submit it into a judging pool. For a full explanation of how challenges are judged, see the resources section here. I've read some powerhouse talent submitting to these challenges, but at the end of the day, there are only three coveted spots in each challenge that offer a prize. Vocal allows you to check out your competition, and heart entries you love to give the creator a boost. It can be an overwhelming process at times. If you're new to Vocal, or new to writing in general—or perhaps even a seasoned veteran who's worn out—it's easy to get discouraged. We all need a little encouragement from time to time so here goes.

1. Embrace the Joy of Writing

If you're only writing these challenge entries for fame and money, you're missing out on the greater experience. Approach a challenge as writing for the joy of writing. Share your piece with those who appreciate your work, and let everything else be water off a duck's back. Celebrate the tiny wins, like getting recognition from your fellow creators. I know personally, a good piece of feedback from just one person makes my whole day, which is why I aim to give so much of it back. And don't worry: if you notice a mistake or want to take someone's suggestion after submitting, there is always Quick-Edit!

2. Networking Is for More Than Reads

As explained in my Forget Insta-Famous. Aspire to be Vocal-Famous article (currently under construction), you need to network to get your creation off the ground, and there are lots of places that can help. Join your fellow creators on Facebook in the Vocal Social Society or Great Incantations: A group dedicated to Vocal Challenges. You'll be amazed at the positive atmosphere, constructive feedback and encouragement you'll receive. It's also the perfect place to build up an audience and test out your portfolio.

3. Vocal Contests Are for Everyone

I didn't go to university for creative writing; I did science. Despite being an avid reader and writing bits & pieces of things privately over the years, I missed out on the thrill of being given a task and asked to create. You don't need to be a professional to enter a challenge. Better yet, unlike a writing workshop, Facebook feedback is free and on your own schedule. Vocal is a safe space to create and a polished platform to showcase your work. Vocal challenges, specifically, have given me prompts to write about topics I'd never thought about attempting before.

4. It's a Cost Effective Way to Practice Your Skills

I've entered ten contests (to date) on Vocal+ for less than the cost of Netflix. And let me be honest, if I'm sat in front of a computer screen and my hands are idle, I'm gonna start snacking, which means the only thing likely to gain a couple of pounds isn't my wallet. Thanks to being a Vocal+ member, I've done some of my best fiction and non-fiction writing of my life. I've been a Vocal member for merely a month, but I've already swapped ideas, made bigger plans and met some incredible people.

5. Revenue Comes in Many Forms

In terms of profits, I'm still Channeling My Inner Oprah by handing out tips to fellow creators, so I'd say I've about broken even at this point in terms of money coming in vs. out. I'm fine with that. I have no plans on stopping my tipping anytime soon. As a Canadian, paying it forward is a way of life; it's the positive encouragement and flurry of creative inspiration that have been my greatest sources of revenue since becoming a Vocal member. Even if you don't win a challenge, you walk away with a unique piece of writing to add to your portfolio.

Don't Stop Now

So to all my fellow creators, including friends I know and those I have yet to make, please borrow a little of Shakira's wisdom and keep going!

I won't give up. No, I won't give in 'til I reach the end .

And then I'll start again.

No, I won't leave. I want to try everything ;

I want to try even though I could fail.

When the eight SFS contests are over, you'll still find me writing up a storm and connecting with fellow Vocalites. For all my fellow creators out there, this piece is for you. See you on the flip side!

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Vocal is for Everyone. Join Vocal+ today and start building your portfolio alongside thousands of other talented creators.

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Cheers, folks! And remember, "It's always better to be happy than dignified." —Jane Eyre, Charlotte Brontë