Surprising yet Inevitable

I'm writing a novel. It's too early to even bring it up, but I mention it because as I study classic narrative strategies, I'm compelled to search for real-world examples inside my own life. If I am the protagonist for my life's story, the first question I must answer is, "What do I want?" Of course, there is not just one answer. We all have professional aspirations, creative dreams, family obligations, or God forbid, life or death challenges. But once I can answer the question of what I want, the choices I make to achieve it and overcome the obstacles I face demonstrate my character. If you look at life with that perspective, you learn to need challenges. Conflict is your true mirror.

I try to stand up to my antagonists, whether a real life person, a situation I find myself in, or my own self getting in the way. These antagonists create escalating conflict and I alternate between hope and fear as I take two steps forward and one step back.

I admit using all of these narrative tactics to explain my journey sounds corny. But by analyzing my life through a traditional story arc, I can take a moment to realize the world around me. I can choose the cliffhanger. I can choose the stakes. I can root for the underdog, or solve the mystery, or get the girl. I can choose my supporting characters to highlight my traits. I can guarantee my life's story is compelling. And I know the ending will be surprising, yet inevitable.