It's one thing to tell your story to a friend. It's another thing to write your story. There must be structure built on a firm foundation. What is your story's foundation- plot? It has to start there. All other things will come together. If you have a weak foundation, you'll have a weak story, even if you think it's great. When the test of time comes, aka festivals and critics, your plot will determine much about your success. Plotting can make or break you. It's your choice.