Do exploratory analyses require a correction?

I am conducting a preliminary analysis of a small dataset (101 participants) and trying to test for two separate mediations: Is the relationship between Autistic traits and Suicidality mediated by emotion regulation? Is the relationship between Autistic traits and Self-Harm mediated by emotion regulation? To do so, I collected data on two scales, each with 6 subscales. I would like to conduct an exploratory analysis and test the 18 different mediations to see whether any direction warrants further investigation (again, this is a preliminary analysis; the sample is very small for strong conclusions, and the number of comparisons is large). I just wanted to make sure it is OK to go in this exploratory direction without making any corrections (Bonferroni)? As I was asked, I do intend to publish it, but as a preliminary pilot study (as this sample is very small and time specific).