You don’t have to publish in publications, but I’ve found it easier for more people to find my writing since I have.

Publications are great, I found a few I like: The Writing Cooperative, The Ascent, and Invisible Illness. I even started my own pub, TMI: Too Much Information, because I wanted to see what is involved.

It entirely up to you which road to take in your journey, I will say that you will take a shortcut if you partner with publications.

Good luck!