goals
Understanding your goals to help you achieve them.
The Miracle of the Exodus
The scorching desert sun beat down upon the dusty, barren landscape as the Israelites trudged wearily through the wilderness. Led by the fearless Moses, they had escaped the clutches of their ruthless oppressors, the Egyptians, and were now bound for the Promised Land.
By ZAID KHAN2 years ago in Motivation
A Novel Idea for 2025. Runner-Up in New Year, New Projects Challenge.
Let me tell you a story about a novel idea that has been in the works for thirteen years. It all started when I was a freshman at UC Davis, taking both a literature class in fairy tales and an honors program class on poetry. After learning about the Grimm Brothers, I was inspired to write an epic poem in which the Pied Piper had a sister, whom I called the Singing Gypsy. Later that year, this epic poem birthed a short story that is now known as Red Shift. (You can see the current version of this short story here on Vocal.) From this short story, I created an entire world incorporating several characters, both original and based on fairy and folk tales. I began to plan a series based on the lives of the Pied Piper and the Singing Gypsy. However, the life of a secondary character caught my attention, Beorn the Alchemist. Soon, his life pulled me away from the Pied Piper and the Singing Gypsy to a new series of novels based on Beorn’s complex adventures. It is the first novel of this series that I plan to finish in the year 2025.
By Stephanie Hoogstad2 years ago in Motivation
Why Do We Feel Alone Together?
In a world that often feels overwhelmingly connected, it’s perplexing to find ourselves feeling isolated, even in the company of others. The experience of loneliness amidst a crowd is not just a fleeting emotion; it’s a profound state that many of us grapple with. It’s essential to acknowledge that this feeling can arise from various sources, each deeply rooted in our individual experiences and perceptions. When we gather in groups, there’s an expectation of connection, a belief that being surrounded by others will naturally lead to feelings of belonging. Yet, for some, this expectation can create an internal conflict. We might find ourselves physically present, yet emotionally distant. This paradox stems from our innate desire for genuine connection. It’s not merely the presence of people that fulfills this need; it’s the quality of the interactions we share with them. Consider the moments when we engage in conversations that skim the surface, discussing the weather or the latest trends. While these exchanges can be enjoyable, they often lack the depth that fosters true connection. When we yearn for meaningful dialogue but find ourselves trapped in superficial exchanges, it can lead to feelings of disconnection. We may smile and laugh, yet inside, we’re yearning for something more substantial—an understanding that goes beyond the surface. Our personal narratives also play a significant role in shaping our feelings of loneliness. Each of us carries a unique story, filled with experiences that have shaped who we are. In a group setting, we might feel that our story is not valued, or perhaps we fear that sharing it would make us vulnerable. This apprehension can create a barrier, preventing us from fully engaging with those around us. As a result, we may choose to retreat into ourselves, feeling increasingly isolated even as others surround us. Another layer to this complex emotional experience lies in our expectations of social interactions. We often enter group situations with a preconceived notion of how we should feel—happy, engaged, and connected. When reality doesn’t align with these expectations, it can lead to disappointment and loneliness. It’s crucial to remember that our feelings are valid, regardless of the context. Recognizing that it’s okay to feel out of place can be the first step toward understanding our emotions. There’s also the influence of our internal dialogue. The thoughts we carry can greatly impact our emotional state. If we enter a group feeling insecure or unworthy, our mind may reinforce these feelings, creating a self-fulfilling prophecy. The more we dwell on our perceived inadequacies, the more isolated we may feel. This cycle can be challenging to break, but it’s important to challenge these negative thoughts and replace them with affirmations of our worth and value. Connection is not solely about being in the same physical space; it’s about feeling seen, heard, and valued. When we find ourselves in a group, it’s essential to seek out those moments of authentic connection. This might mean initiating a deeper conversation with someone who shares our interests or simply being present and open to the experiences of others. It’s in these moments of vulnerability that we can truly connect and combat the feelings of loneliness that may arise. The journey to overcoming loneliness within a crowd is deeply personal. It requires us to reflect on our experiences, our expectations, and the narratives we tell ourselves. It’s about embracing our unique stories and recognizing that we are not alone in our feelings. Each of us has the capacity to forge connections that transcend the superficial, to seek out those meaningful interactions that remind us of our shared humanity. Ultimately, the goal is to create spaces where we can all feel a sense of belonging. It’s about fostering environments where every voice is valued and every story is heard. In doing so, we not only combat our feelings of loneliness but also enrich the lives of those around us.
By Laney Matthews2 years ago in Motivation
My 2025 Writing Goals Part Two: The Animated Series. Runner-Up in New Year, New Projects Challenge.
Hello, and welcome to part two of my three-part series on my writing goals and projects for 2025! I'm hoping these articles are interesting and exciting, but more than that, I hope that they inspire others to finish that book, write that script, or record that podcast.
By Bradley Ramsey2 years ago in Motivation
Improve Your Health with Feng Shui
We spend about one third of our life in our bedroom and about one third of our life in our workspaces. If two thirds of our lives are spent in these two places, we must ask ourselves how is the quality of the energy in these environments?
By Jodie Rowe2 years ago in Motivation
My 2025 Writing Goals Part One: The Novel
Welcome to part one of my three-part series on my 2025 writing goals! Click here to read part two or here for part three. I've been a writer my whole life. In fact, I knew in second grade that this is what I was going to do with my life. While everyone around me debated being a firefighter, a doctor, or a police officer, I dreamt of being a published author.
By Bradley Ramsey2 years ago in Motivation
Enter 2025: The Year of Change
Hello 2025! With a new year comes new projects. Or for us writers: projects (yes, you cannot go without the “s”). Reflecting on 2024, I am looking ahead this year and considering what projects I need to accomplish. As a writer, the first major project I want to accomplish is writing a novel. The second project is prepare for my departure from the place I have called home for the past three decades.
By Iris Harris2 years ago in Motivation
Mindset And Habits For Financial Independence
Building a Millionaire Mindset Developing a millionaire mindset involves cultivating habits, attitudes, and strategies that align with long-term financial success and abundance. It’s not just about having money but thinking in ways that create opportunities, attract wealth, and sustain financial growth. Here’s a detailed description of how to build a millionaire mindset:
By Yetunde ogunseye2 years ago in Motivation
FIND YOU FIRE AGAIN
Dear Friend, Have you ever woken up with this strange heaviness, like the day is already too much before it even begins? I've been there. Some days feel like a mountain too steep to climb. But as I sit here writing this letter, I want to share something with you- something that's helped me when I feel like giving up.
By PSYGENIUS2 years ago in Motivation
