A Year of Storytelling: Reflections and New Beginnings
Discover the simple magic of capturing moments, connecting through words, and embracing the art of storytelling.
What if the best stories weren’t the ones we planned, but the ones hiding in everyday moments?
It’s been a year filled with stories… some shared, some still waiting to be told. Looking back over the last 12 months, with over 30o pieces written, and countless moments captured, I’m struck by how storytelling has shaped my writing… and my perspective.
This isn’t about metrics or platforms, it’s about what I’ve learned from showing up, sharing, and connecting through words. Let’s talk about what storytelling taught me… some advice for you and where I’m going next.
Lessons from a Year of Stories
The biggest takeaway? We all have stories. Some grab you, others quietly resonate. The beauty is just in telling them.
Short stories are my favorite — to write and to read. There’s magic that comes in capturing a moment or idea in a few paragraphs. Long pieces? They have a place, but for me, shorter is where my attention lies.
Storytelling keeps evolving. Each piece helps you get better at headlines, hooks, and pacing. It’s always a chance to grow.
Consistency matters. Whether you write daily or weekly, just showing up builds momentum. For some, words flow naturally. For others, it’s more deliberate. Either way works.
Mornings are my sweet spot for writing. That’s when my head’s clear. Evenings? That’s reading time… when I can fully enjoy words.
The best stories? They’re often unexpected. Random recommendations.
This past year, I’ve grown. My writing’s changed, my reading’s shifted, and I’ve embraced creativity in new ways. Growth comes when you lean into the unknown.
Actionable Advice for Aspiring Storytellers
Start Small… Stay Consistent
Set an easy goal, like one story a week. Just focus on showing up, not perfection.Find Magic in Moments
Great stories don’t have to be big. Look for magic in everyday stuff, a conversation, a thought, even a fleeting moment.Nail the Hook
Spend extra time on your headline and opening. That’s how you pull readers in- make it irresistible.Create a Writing Habit
Find your most productive time and stick to it. For me, mornings are gold.Read Everything
Don’t just stick to your niche. Explore other topics, so inspiration comes from unexpected places.Try New Things
Experiment with styles and formats. Growth happens outside your comfort zone.Connect with Your Readers
Ask questions and be sure to invite feedback. Storytelling’s a two-way thing.
Looking Ahead
Storytelling will always be at the heart of what I do, but my focus is shifting.
I’m letting go of obsessing over numbers. I’ll still track what works, but it’s not about the data anymore. It’s about connection.
This year, I’ll keep sharing stories about mindset, growth, and the randomness of life. I’m committing to three stories a week, no pressure to do more.
My reading will follow curiosity… no quotas. Joy in discovering new ideas.
This next chapter? It’s about exploring what’s next. As a storyteller. A creator. Someone thinking about the future of work and life. Maybe even retirement, though the stories are far from over.
What I know is this: storytelling’s a gift. For the teller and the listener. And as long as there are stories, I’ll keep showing up.