30 day challenge essay

The 30-Day Writing Challenge: An Alternative to NaNoWriMo for Writers Who Fear Commitment

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I don't know about you, but I'm afraid of commitment.

I find it difficult to choose a movie because I think two hours is too long to focus on the same story. I've had three separate Facebook accounts, over 10 different email addresses (five of which are currently active), and I've dyed my hair more colors than I could count on both my fingers and my toes. I'm the person who researches the restaurant ahead of time and still stares at the menu long after everyone has decided what to order.

Okay, so I know the idea is that even moms and full-time employees can find time, that prioritizing writing over other things is important to nurture your artistic self, and that fitting writing into your day every day is what makes a writer, well, a writer. I get it, I do. I get all of it.

Even so, I would like to see my family for more than 30 minutes after I get home from work, and— sue me— but going to new restaurants with my friends is, like, the Olympic sport of my life. I'd still like to write every day; it's just that producing such a high volume in such a short amount of time is what sends single girls like me running and screaming. So what's a whiny writer like me to do?

Luckily, the ability to produce a high volume of good writing doesn't just happen overnight. In reality, writing doesn't have to be so intense. It's all about baby steps. (Like, I guess one date wouldn't hurt, and it might be fun to post that I'm "in a relationship" on Facebook.)

Writing for a few minutes every day doesn't sound so scary, does it? The trick is that it all adds up. That's why we've created a less intense alternative to 50,000 words in 30 days. This is the 30-Day Writing Challenge, where we've provided creative writing exercises for every day of the month. The best part is that you can write as much or as little as you'd like without pressure and without having to feel bad about it. After all, it's all about creation in any volume, right?

The 30-Day Writing Challenge

Take us through a written walk down your street and to your favorite place through the eyes of somebody else.

Think of three people in your life. Give your character the hair and laugh of person 1, the face and bedroom of person 2, and the wardrobe and mannerisms of person 3. This is your new protagonist. Feel free to give him or her any other characteristics you'd like. Give us an idea of who your character is by describing only the first 60 seconds of the character's day.

Now send your character to his or her grumpy grandmother's house for a visit. Write the scene of your character's arrival.

Imagine that your protagonist has just turned into a statue. Describe his or her thoughts.

The last liquid you drank has turned your protagonist into a superhero. What do your character's new powers allow him or her to do?

Think of your favorite food. Try to make it sound as disgusting as possible.

Spoil the ending of your favorite movie without any context.

Take a nondescript sentence such as, "How are you?" Write the same line from at least five different points of view.

Turn a Tweet into a haiku .

Try to convince your reader that the mythological creature of your choosing exists.

You are now a dragon. Describe your hoard.

Take the first line of your favorite novel. Remove and replace the nouns and verbs, and write a story that begins with your new line. Delete the first line.

Think of the worst pain you've ever felt. Now give your protagonist a papercut and over-exaggerate the pain using your own descriptions.

Your character meets somebody new on the bus. His or her opinion about the person is changed by the end of the bus trip. How did this change occur?

Characterize the second-last app on your phone or the last website you've visited (before this one). Send this new character to the supermarket.

The last thing you touched (other than the keyboard, mouse, screen, etc.) is trying to kill your protagonist. Explain why.

A magic trick involving cards has gone horribly wrong. What are the consequences?

Free write about your first protagonist (from Day 1) meeting the new character from Day 15.

Cross an item off your bucket list by doing it in your writing.

Ask somebody you know how his or her day was. Make any kind of poem out of their answer.

Your character's skeleton is trying to escape his or her body. Describe what happens.

Find a cliché you absolutely hate. Rewrite it while keeping the intended meaning intact.

Make an existing protagonist into an antagonist by changing one small thing about him or her. Write a pitch that sells this antagonist's story.

Put your favorite poem through a translator into a different language and then back again. Do this until the poem is no longer recognizable. Rewrite it and turn it into lyrics for a song.

One of your characters has been mistaken for somebody else. Write what happens next.

Write the log line for a mockumentary.

Tell the story of a man who lives in a motel.

Your character picks up a locket or a frame. Explain its contents and their significance.

Think of your greatest fear. If it's an object, person, or place, make it sound loveable. If it's some kind of experience, make it sound fun.

Finish a story with the line, "Nothing ever felt easier to say."

That wasn't so scary, was it?

Which prompts from the 30-Day Writing Challenge were your favorites? Did anything surprise you about your writing? We hope that you've come out of this month no worse for wear than when you started. After all, writing is work, but it's also supposed to be good for the soul. Even if you didn't do all of the challenges, you've written more than you would have if you hadn't taken part in these writing exercises at all. Like I said, it's all about taking baby steps. Now, if you'll excuse me, I have some email accounts to close once and for all . . .

Image sources: Nathan Walker/Stocksnap.io, obpia30/Pixabay.com

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One Full Year’s Worth Of 30-Day Writing Challenges For 2024

Alana Chase

With over 10 years’ experience in editing and editorial team management, Alana serves as Eleven's Head of Editing, aiding editors in creating top-quality content and overseeing recruitment to ensure only the best of the best join Eleven’s ranks. A seasoned digital journalist and writer, Alana holds an MA in Creative Writing and is accomplished in spearheading content strategy at high-growth media startups.

At Eleven, we’re big fans of 30-day writing challenges. Our writers, editors, and account managers all have their favorites — from the National Novel Writing Month challenge (which our Head of Editing has completed three times!) to the month-long microblogging challenge (which captivated our Head of SEO). 

The beauty of these challenges is that they each target different skills and push you in different ways. And they all help you become a stronger, more self-assured, more consistent writer.

In this article, we’ve rounded up our favorite 30-day writing challenges — 12 total so you can complete one ‌each month of the year. You’ll find challenges to clear the creative cobwebs in your mind, refine your persuasive writing skills, experiment with new genres and styles, master narrative structure, and more. 

Let’s dive in!

List of challenges 

• ‍ January : That’s So Random! ‍
• February : Devil’s Advocate ‍
• March : Microblogging Madness ‍
• April : A Poem a Day ‍
• May : First and Last Lines ‍
• June : Journaling Challenge ‍
• July : Parrot Challenge ‍
• August : Paragraph-a-Day AcWriMo ‍
• September : Writing in Reverse ‍
• October : Facing Fears ‍
• November : NaNoWriMo Challenge ‍
• December : Rewriting Challenge

Tips and best practices

Thirty-day writing challenges are marathons, not sprints. Follow these tips to finish challenges without burning out:

• Warm up with writing exercises before the challenge begins . For ideas, check out our favorite writing exercises .
• Schedule writing time into your calendar so you’re more likely to commit to the challenge each day.
• Eliminate distractions by decluttering your writing space and turning off all device notifications. 
• Have the right mindset. Writing coach and author Nina Amir calls this the “secret sauce” that turns good writers into great ones . Be willing to commit, go outside your comfort zone, and remain optimistic and determined.
• Write how and where you’re most comfortable — in your bedroom, on the couch, or out in nature, using a notebook and pencil, your computer, or even your phone or tablet. 
• Get support. Let your friends and family know you’re completing a writing challenge so they can cheer you on — and not interrupt during writing time. Also, consider joining an online writing community like Eleven’s (coming soon!) to seek advice from other writers.
• If you miss a day, jump back in the next. Life happens, but don’t let one interruption derail your goal.

30-day writing challenges for 2024

January: that’s so random.

Skills it targets: Creativity and improvisation.

For January’s challenge, you’ll write in response to random prompts, incorporate random words into your writing, and use existing text as a jumping-off point for new work. 

Aim to write 500 words each day — about any topic you’d like — and follow this schedule:

• January 1-10: Learn The New York Times ’ Word of the Day and write in response to it or use it in your writing each day.
• January 11-20: Use Semrush’s Free Title Generator to generate headlines based on a topic or keyword you input — like “Everything You Need to Know About Flower Care.” Each day, write an article based on a headline Semrush suggests. 
• January 21-31: Choose a piece of writing — a book, blog article, short story, academic paper, etc. — and select a random line from it. Use that as the first line of your new work each day.

February: Devil’s Advocate

Skills it targets: Using persuasion, argumentation, and logic effectively in your writing.

Each day, take an opinion and write a piece that argues against it. For example, write 500 words on why pepperoni isn’t the tastiest pizza topping or why making your bed every morning isn’t actually necessary. 

The point of this challenge is to get you thinking about topics from new perspectives and refine your ability to create convincing arguments. 

Choosing a subject you feel passionate about and then writing a persuasive argument from the opposite side of the debate is also a great way to understand others’ perspectives and see the world in new ways. This is a wonderful exercise, not just for writing, but also for personal growth. 

March: Microblogging Madness

Skills it targets: Writing concisely and capturing readers’ attention quickly. 

In March, challenge yourself to write a microblog post each day. Pick any topic you’d like (use BlogSpot’s Blog Ideas Generator if you need inspiration) and explain it in 100 words or fewer. 

If the 100-word limit sounds too daunting, try the “Ship 30 for 30” Challenge instead. Each day, you’ll write an “Atomic Essay”: an essay focused on a single idea, written in under 250 words, and able to fit into a smartphone screenshot.

And if blogging isn’t your style but creative writing is, modify this challenge to a microfiction one: Write a new 100-word story each day in March. ServiceScape has a fantastic prompt generator (based on dozens of genres), and Reedsy can give you a plot outline, if you get stuck.

April: A Poem a Day

Skills it targets: ​​Using imagery and metaphorical expressions and conveying emotion in your writing.

​​​​Celebrate National Poetry Month by writing a poem every day in April. 

Write about whatever you want, in whatever poetic form — anything goes! Just challenge yourself to use strong imagery, metaphors, and emotions in your poems.

Even if you don’t plan to become the next poet laureate, improving your poetry can make you an all-around better writer in many unexpected ways. 

If you’re new to poetry or want more guidance throughout this challenge, check out these resources:

• Escapril on Instagram . Created by best-selling poet and novelist Savannah Brown, Escapril is a 30-day poetry writing challenge with unique daily prompts. 
• Squibler’s list of 132 poetry prompts .
• Reedsy’s poetry writing prompts .
• Jericho Writers’ list of 100 poetry prompts . 
• The Poetry Society UK’s National Poetry Writing Competition writing prompts .

May: First and Last Lines

Skills it targets: ​​Crafting memorable beginnings and endings and experimenting with narrative structures.

On May 1, you have total freedom: write anything you want in as many words as you like. Then, on May 2, you’ll use the last line of your writing from May 1 as the first line of a new piece of writing. Continue this method each day for the rest of the month.

June: Journaling Challenge

Skills it targets: Injecting personality and authenticity into your writing.

​​For June, you’ll focus on self-expression by writing a daily journal entry. Reflect on your emotions, experiences, thoughts, and opinions. Write in your own unique voice, and be as authentic as possible. 

By the end of the month, you’ll have done what prolific writer Joyce Carol Oates has for decades. She’s ‌kept a journal since her early 20s and recommends regular journaling to writers of all levels . 

July: Parrot Challenge

Skills it targets: Understanding tone of voice and adapting your writing for various audiences.

Each day in July, pick any topic you'd like, choose a random author, and write about your chosen topic in their tone of voice. You can even explore new genres. 

The goal is to “parrot” the writing you’ve chosen each day. For example, if you mainly write horror stories, pick a romance novelist and emulate their tone of voice in a new piece of writing. Or, if you do most of your writing in an academic setting, try writing in a casual tone for a digital audience.

August: Paragraph-a-Day AcWriMo

Skills it targets: Academic writing, research skills, and communicating ideas clearly. 

Academic Writing Month (AcWriMo) takes place in November, but that doesn’t mean you can’t celebrate it early. (We have something else lined up for November!)

AcWriMo’s central premise is simple: Set a daily goal for your academic writing project and share progress updates on social media using #AcWriMo. For more structure, though, the University of Oxford runs a Paragraph-a-Day AcWriMo challenge . 

Complete the challenge by selecting a topic that interests you, researching it, and writing one paragraph (200-300 words) about it per day. 

Craft 30 paragraphs on the same topic, or shake things up by writing 30 paragraphs on 30 different topics. Either way, use a formal, academic tone and explain your ideas clearly. 

September: Writing in Reverse

Skills it targets: Structuring your writing well and ensuring all your ideas support your main narrative.

Start by choosing something you’d like to write: a short story, an essay, a blog article, etc. On September 1, write the last paragraph of your new writing project. Then, move backward until you pen the first paragraph on September 30. 

Pay attention to how each new paragraph builds on the ones before it and how they all contribute to your overall story or argument. 

October: Facing Fears

Skills it targets: Writing in different genres and using different forms.

Embrace the spooky season by writing about a different fear — yours, someone else’s, or one totally new to you — every day in October. ( Forbes has a master list of common phobias to help you brainstorm.)

Write about each fear differently. For example, one day, craft a short story featuring a character with aquaphobia (a fear of water). The next, pen a 500-word article explaining the history of bathmophobia (the fear of escalators). You could even get meta and write something on graphophobia — the fear of writing!

November: NaNoWriMo Challenge

Skills it targets: Novel writing and maintaining a daily writing habit with a high word count goal.

National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo) tasks writers with penning a 50,000-word novel in November. That amounts to 1,667 words per day. 

Many best-selling books were drafted during NaNoWriMo — including Sara Gruen’s Water for Elephants , Erin Morgenstern’s The Night Circus, Hank Green’s An Absolutely Remarkable Thing , Emily X.R. Pan’s The Astonishing Color of After, and many more.

To participate, sign up for an account on the NaNoWriMo website , enter details about your novel-in-progress, and log your word count at the end of each day. You can even connect with other participants and attend in-person and virtual NaNoWriMo events with writers in your area. 

If you hit 50,000 words by November 30, you’ll earn a colorful badge and certificate of completion.

Novels not your thing? No problem. Simply write 1,667 words per day every day in November. (That’s close to novelist Stephen King’s daily commitment of 2,000 words !) You’ll still end up with 50,000 words by the end of the month, just like regular NaNoWriMo participants.

December: Rewriting Challenge

Skills it targets: Self-editing, self-critique, using different perspectives, and writing concisely. 

December’s challenge is all about reworking your drafts. It’s split into two parts:

• Each day from December 1-17 , rewrite a draft from another point of view. For example, if you originally wrote your draft in the second person (using you/your/yours pronouns), rewrite it in the first person with yourself as the narrator (using I/me/my pronouns). 
• Each day from December 18-31 , focus on concision. Take something you’ve written and cut its word count in half — without sacrificing clarity or meaning.

Month-long writing challenges are a great way to establish consistency and discipline, unleash your creativity, and steadily improve your writing. 

You have plenty of challenges to choose from, but our top recommendations are compiled in this guide. Mix and match the ones that interest you most, or complete all 12 in a year to really test (and impress) yourself.

For more info on leveling up as a writer, check out our writing and editing guides , visit our Grammar Hub , and sign up for our Freelance Writing Mastery course .

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How to Write the “Overcoming Challenges” Essay + Examples

What’s covered:.

• What is the Overcoming Challenges Essay?
• Real Overcoming Challenges Essay Prompts
• How to Choose a Topic
• Writing Tips

Overcoming Challenges Essay Examples

• Where to Get Your Essay Edited

While any college essay can be intimidating, the Overcoming Challenges prompt often worries students the most. Those students who’ve been lucky enough not to experience trauma tend to assume they have nothing worth saying. On the other hand, students who’ve overcome larger obstacles may be hesitant to talk about them.

Regardless of your particular circumstances, there are steps you can take to make the essay writing process simpler. Here are our top tips for writing the overcoming challenges essay successfully.

What is the “Overcoming Challenges” Essay?

The overcoming challenges prompt shows up frequently in both main application essays (like the Common App) and supplemental essays. Because supplemental essays allow students to provide schools with additional information, applicants should be sure that the subject matter they choose to write about differs from what’s in their main essay.

Students often assume the overcoming challenges essay requires them to detail past traumas. While you can certainly write about an experience that’s had a profound effect on your life, it’s important to remember that colleges aren’t evaluating students based on the seriousness of the obstacle they overcame.

On the contrary, the goal of this essay is to show admissions officers that you have the intelligence and fortitude to handle any challenges that come your way. After all, college serves as an introduction to adult life, and schools want to know that the students they admit are up to the task. 

Real “Overcoming Challenges” Essay Prompts

To help you understand what the “Overcoming Challenges” essay looks like, here are a couple sample prompts.

Currently, the Common Application asks students to answer the following prompt in 650 words or less:

“The lessons we take from obstacles we encounter can be fundamental to later success. Recount a time when you faced a challenge, setback, or failure. How did it affect you, and what did you learn from the experience?”

For the past several years, MIT has prompted students to write 200 to 250 words on the following:

“Tell us about the most significant challenge you’ve faced or something important that didn’t go according to plan. How did you manage the situation?”

In both cases, the prompts explicitly ask for your response to the challenge. The event itself isn’t as important as how it pushed you to grow.

How to Choose a Topic for an Essay on Overcoming Challenges

When it comes to finding the best topic for your overcoming challenges essays, there’s no right answer. The word “challenge” is ambiguous and could be used to reference a wide range of situations from prevailing over a bully to getting over your lifelong stage fright to appear in a school musical. Here are some suggestions to keep in mind when selecting an essay subject.

1. Avoid trivial or common topics

While there aren’t many hard-and-fast rules for choosing an essay topic, students should avoid overdone topics.

These include:

• Working hard in a challenging class
• Overcoming a sports injury
• Moving schools or immigrating to the US
• Tragedy (divorce, death, abuse)

Admissions officers have read numerous essays on the subject, so it’s harder for you to stand out (see our full list of cliché college essay topics to avoid ). If events like these were truly formative to you, you can still choose to write about them, but you’ll need to be as personal as possible. 

It’s also ideal if you have a less traditional storyline for a cliché topic; for example, if your sports injury led you to discover a new passion, that would be a more unique story than detailing how you overcame your injury and got back in the game.

Similarly, students may not want to write about an obstacle that admissions committees could perceive as low stakes, such as getting a B on a test, or getting into a small fight with a friend. The goal of this essay is to illustrate how you respond to adversity, so the topic you pick should’ve been at least impactful on your personal growth.

2. Pick challenges that demonstrate qualities you want to highlight

Students often mistakenly assume they need to have experienced exceptional circumstances like poverty, an abusive parent, or cancer to write a good essay. The truth is that the best topics will allow you to highlight specific personal qualities and share more about who you are. The essay should be less about the challenge itself, and more about how you responded to it.

Ask yourself what personality traits you want to emphasize, and see what’s missing in your application. Maybe you want to highlight your adaptability, for example, but that isn’t clearly expressed in your application. In this case, you might write about a challenge that put your adaptability to the test, or shaped you to become more adaptable.

Here are some examples of good topics we’ve seen over the years:

• Not having a coach for a sports team and becoming one yourself
• Helping a parent through a serious health issue
• Trying to get the school track dedicated to a coach
• Having to switch your Model UN position last-minute

Tips for Writing an Essay About Overcoming Challenges

Once you’ve selected a topic for your essays, it’s time to sit down and write. For best results, make sure your essay focuses on your efforts to tackle an obstacle rather than the problem itself. Additionally, you could avoid essay writing pitfalls by doing the following:

1. Choose an original essay structure

If you want your overcoming challenges essay to attract attention, aim to break away from more traditional structures. Most of these essays start by describing an unsuccessful attempt at a goal and then explain the steps the writer took to master the challenge. 

You can stand out by choosing a challenge you’re still working on overcoming, or focus on a mental or emotional challenge that spans multiple activities or events. For example, you might discuss your fear of public speaking and how that impacted your ability to coach your brother’s Little League team and run for Student Council. 

You can also choose a challenge that can be narrated in the moment, such as being put on the spot to teach a yoga class. These challenges can make particularly engaging essays, as you get to experience the writer’s thoughts and emotions as they unfold.

Keep in mind that you don’t necessarily need to have succeeded in your goal for this essay. Maybe you ran for an election and lost, or maybe you proposed a measure to the school board that wasn’t passed. It’s still possible to write a strong essay about topics like these as long as you focus on your personal growth. In fact, these may make for even stronger essays since they are more unconventional topics.

2. Focus on the internal

When writing about past experiences, you may be tempted to spend too much time describing specific people and events. With an Overcoming Challenges essay though, the goal is to focus on your thoughts and feelings.

For example, rather than detail all the steps you took to become a better public speaker, use the majority of your essay to describe your mental state as you embarked on the journey to achieving your goals. Were you excited, scared, anxious, or hopeful? Don’t be afraid to let the reader in on your innermost emotions and thoughts during this process.

3. Share what you learned 

An Overcoming Challenges essay should leave the reader with a clear understanding of what you learned on your journey, be it physical, mental, or emotional. There’s no need to explicitly say “this experience taught me X,” but your essay should at least implicitly share any lessons you learned. This can be done through your actions and in-the-moment reflections. Remember that the goal is to show admissions committees why your experiences make you a great candidate for admission. 

Was I no longer the beloved daughter of nature, whisperer of trees? Knee-high rubber boots, camouflage, bug spray—I wore the g arb and perfume of a proud wild woman, yet there I was, hunched over the pathetic pile of stubborn sticks, utterly stumped, on the verge of tears. As a child, I had considered myself a kind of rustic princess, a cradler of spiders and centipedes, who was serenaded by mourning doves and chickadees, who could glide through tick-infested meadows and emerge Lyme-free. I knew the cracks of the earth like the scars on my own rough palms. Yet here I was, ten years later, incapable of performing the most fundamental outdoor task: I could not, for the life of me, start a fire. 

Furiously I rubbed the twigs together—rubbed and rubbed until shreds of skin flaked from my fingers. No smoke. The twigs were too young, too sticky-green; I tossed them away with a shower of curses, and began tearing through the underbrush in search of a more flammable collection. My efforts were fruitless. Livid, I bit a rejected twig, determined to prove that the forest had spurned me, offering only young, wet bones that would never burn. But the wood cracked like carrots between my teeth—old, brittle, and bitter. Roaring and nursing my aching palms, I retreated to the tent, where I sulked and awaited the jeers of my family. 

Rattling their empty worm cans and reeking of fat fish, my brother and cousins swaggered into the campsite. Immediately, they noticed the minor stick massacre by the fire pit and called to me, their deep voices already sharp with contempt. 

“Where’s the fire, Princess Clara?” they taunted. “Having some trouble?” They prodded me with the ends of the chewed branches and, with a few effortless scrapes of wood on rock, sparked a red and roaring flame. My face burned long after I left the fire pit. The camp stank of salmon and shame. 

In the tent, I pondered my failure. Was I so dainty? Was I that incapable? I thought of my hands, how calloused and capable they had been, how tender and smooth they had become. It had been years since I’d kneaded mud between my fingers; instead of scaling a white pine, I’d practiced scales on my piano, my hands softening into those of a musician—fleshy and sensitive. And I’d gotten glasses, having grown horrifically nearsighted; long nights of dim lighting and thick books had done this. I couldn’t remember the last time I had lain down on a hill, barefaced, and seen the stars without having to squint. Crawling along the edge of the tent, a spider confirmed my transformation—he disgusted me, and I felt an overwhelming urge to squash him. 

Yet, I realized I hadn’t really changed—I had only shifted perspective. I still eagerly explored new worlds, but through poems and prose rather than pastures and puddles. I’d grown to prefer the boom of a bass over that of a bullfrog, learned to coax a different kind of fire from wood, having developed a burn for writing rhymes and scrawling hypotheses. 

That night, I stayed up late with my journal and wrote about the spider I had decided not to kill. I had tolerated him just barely, only shrieking when he jumped—it helped to watch him decorate the corners of the tent with his delicate webs, knowing that he couldn’t start fires, either. When the night grew cold and the embers died, my words still smoked—my hands burned from all that scrawling—and even when I fell asleep, the ideas kept sparking—I was on fire, always on fire.

This essay is an excellent example because the writer turns an everyday challenge—starting a fire—into an exploration of her identity. The writer was once “a kind of rustic princess, a cradler of spiders and centipedes,” but has since traded her love of the outdoors for a love of music, writing, and reading. 

The story begins in media res , or in the middle of the action, allowing readers to feel as if we’re there with the writer. One of the essay’s biggest strengths is its use of imagery. We can easily visualize the writer’s childhood and the present day. For instance, she states that she “rubbed and rubbed [the twigs] until shreds of skin flaked from my fingers.”

The writing has an extremely literary quality, particularly with its wordplay. The writer reappropriates words and meanings, and even appeals to the senses: “My face burned long after I left the fire pit. The camp stank of salmon and shame.” She later uses a parallelism to cleverly juxtapose her changed interests: “instead of scaling a white pine, I’d practiced scales on my piano.”

One of the essay’s main areas of improvement is its overemphasis on the “story” and lack of emphasis on the reflection. The second to last paragraph about changing perspective is crucial to the essay, as it ties the anecdote to larger lessons in the writer’s life. She states that she hasn’t changed, but has only shifted perspective. Yet, we don’t get a good sense of where this realization comes from and how it impacts her life going forward. 

The end of the essay offers a satisfying return to the fire imagery, and highlights the writer’s passion—the one thing that has remained constant in her life.

“Getting beat is one thing – it’s part of competing – but I want no part in losing.” Coach Rob Stark’s motto never fails to remind me of his encouragement on early-morning bus rides to track meets around the state. I’ve always appreciated the phrase, but an experience last June helped me understand its more profound, universal meaning.

Stark, as we affectionately call him, has coached track at my high school for 25 years. His care, dedication, and emphasis on developing good character has left an enduring impact on me and hundreds of other students. Not only did he help me discover my talent and love for running, but he also taught me the importance of commitment and discipline and to approach every endeavor with the passion and intensity that I bring to running. When I learned a neighboring high school had dedicated their track to a longtime coach, I felt that Stark deserved similar honors.

Our school district’s board of education indicated they would only dedicate our track to Stark if I could demonstrate that he was extraordinary. I took charge and mobilized my teammates to distribute petitions, reach out to alumni, and compile statistics on the many team and individual champions Stark had coached over the years. We received astounding support, collecting almost 3,000 signatures and pages of endorsements from across the community. With help from my teammates, I presented this evidence to the board.

They didn’t bite. 

Most members argued that dedicating the track was a low priority. Knowing that we had to act quickly to convince them of its importance, I called a team meeting where we drafted a rebuttal for the next board meeting. To my surprise, they chose me to deliver it. I was far from the best public speaker in the group, and I felt nervous about going before the unsympathetic board again. However, at that second meeting, I discovered that I enjoy articulating and arguing for something that I’m passionate about.

Public speaking resembles a cross country race. Walking to the starting line, you have to trust your training and quell your last minute doubts. When the gun fires, you can’t think too hard about anything; your performance has to be instinctual, natural, even relaxed. At the next board meeting, the podium was my starting line. As I walked up to it, familiar butterflies fluttered in my stomach. Instead of the track stretching out in front of me, I faced the vast audience of teachers, board members, and my teammates. I felt my adrenaline build, and reassured myself: I’ve put in the work, my argument is powerful and sound. As the board president told me to introduce myself, I heard, “runners set” in the back of my mind. She finished speaking, and Bang! The brief silence was the gunshot for me to begin. 

The next few minutes blurred together, but when the dust settled, I knew from the board members’ expressions and the audience’s thunderous approval that I had run quite a race. Unfortunately, it wasn’t enough; the board voted down our proposal. I was disappointed, but proud of myself, my team, and our collaboration off the track. We stood up for a cause we believed in, and I overcame my worries about being a leader. Although I discovered that changing the status quo through an elected body can be a painstakingly difficult process and requires perseverance, I learned that I enjoy the challenges this effort offers. Last month, one of the school board members joked that I had become a “regular” – I now often show up to meetings to advocate for a variety of causes, including better environmental practices in cafeterias and safer equipment for athletes.

Just as Stark taught me, I worked passionately to achieve my goal. I may have been beaten when I appealed to the board, but I certainly didn’t lose, and that would have made Stark proud.

While the writer didn’t succeed in getting the track dedicated to Coach Stark, their essay is certainly successful in showing their willingness to push themselves and take initiative.

The essay opens with a quote from Coach Stark that later comes full circle at the end of the essay. We learn about Stark’s impact and the motivation for trying to get the track dedicated to him.

One of the biggest areas of improvement in the intro, however, is how the essay tells us Stark’s impact rather than showing us: His care, dedication, and emphasis on developing good character has left an enduring impact on me and hundreds of other students. Not only did he help me discover my talent and love for running, but he also taught me the importance of commitment and discipline and to approach every endeavor with the passion and intensity that I bring to running.

The writer could’ve helped us feel a stronger emotional connection to Stark if they had included examples of Stark’s qualities, rather than explicitly stating them. For example, they could’ve written something like: Stark was the kind of person who would give you gas money if you told him your parents couldn’t afford to pick you up from practice. And he actually did that—several times. At track meets, alumni regularly would come talk to him and tell him how he’d changed their lives. Before Stark, I was ambivalent about running and was on the JV team, but his encouragement motivated me to run longer and harder and eventually make varsity. Because of him, I approach every endeavor with the passion and intensity that I bring to running.

The essay goes on to explain how the writer overcame their apprehension of public speaking, and likens the process of submitting an appeal to the school board to running a race. This metaphor makes the writing more engaging and allows us to feel the student’s emotions.

While the student didn’t ultimately succeed in getting the track dedicated, we learn about their resilience and initiative: I now often show up to meetings to advocate for a variety of causes, including better environmental practices in cafeterias and safer equipment for athletes.

Overall, this essay is well-done. It demonstrates growth despite failing to meet a goal, which is a unique essay structure. The running metaphor and full-circle intro/ending also elevate the writing in this essay.

Where to Get Your Overcoming Challenges Essay Edited

The Overcoming Challenges essay is one of the trickier supplemental prompts, so it’s important to get feedback on your drafts. That’s why we created our free Peer Essay Review tool , where you can get a free review of your essay from another student. You can also improve your own writing skills by reviewing other students’ essays. 

If you want a college admissions expert to review your essay, advisors on CollegeVine have helped students refine their writing and submit successful applications to top schools. Find the right advisor for you to improve your chances of getting into your dream school!

Related CollegeVine Blog Posts

30 Day Writing Challenge

The best way to make your writing stronger is to do it every day

Many people dream of “being a writer.” They picture a published book with their name on it, or an article they wrote going out to the masses. But so many of us have difficulty actually putting pen to paper (or, fingers to keyboard) to write. The number one thing a writer needs to do is write. And yet, it can be so challenging for so many of us.

One of the best ways to combat writer’s block is to engage in a writing challenge. For example, each summer, the author Jami Attenberg hosts “1,000 Words of Summer,” a challenge to writers to write 1,000 words every day for two weeks.

Here, you’ll find a 30-day writing challenge. This is 30 short prompts for you to do, doing one a day per day for 30 days.

You don’t have to set aside too much time for these, nor do you have to set a daily word count for yourself, unless a specific prompt calls for it. The most important thing is that you write. No matter how much you produce each day, after a month, you’ll be surprised at how much writing you’ll have done.

• Pick a color, any color. Write about that color as if it were a person. What are its good personality traits? Bad? What’s its name?
• Write about a place you visited yesterday. If you went out, write about somewhere you visited. If you stayed in, focus on one room you spent time in. Describe it in detail.
• Who was your favorite teacher? Why? Write about them.
• Who was your least favorite teacher? Why? Write about them.
• Write at least one page, uninterrupted, about absolutely anything that comes to mind. If nothing at all comes to mind, write about your thoughts on emptiness.
• Grab a book off a bookshelf. Open it to a random page. Close your eyes and point to a random passage. Type up that passage. Now, write something about that passage. Maybe it’s whatever happens next (though, it shouldn’t follow whatever really happens next in that book), or maybe it’s whatever would be the complete opposite of what you’ve just read.
• When was the last time you cried? Why? Write about it.
• Go to Wikipedia’s random article generator page . Read whatever comes up, and then write something short based on it. Maybe a main character comes from the article, or maybe a scenario. You’ll have to see what pops up, but use it as inspiration in some way.
• Write a story that begins with this line: “I kicked off my boots. My socks were wet, my feet were frozen. The fireplace was dark.”
• What is the stupidest argument you’ve ever been a part of? Who was stupider, you or the other person? Write about it.
• In a small town, there’s a dog that keeps getting into a chicken coop and eating the chickens. The owner of the chicken coop is threatening to shoot the dog. Write a story about the conversation that happens between the chicken owner and the dog owner.
• The owner of the dog called the town government on the chicken coop owner. There’s a hearing about it. Write the story of that hearing.
• Imagine a family experience you had. Maybe it’s a holiday, or a vacation, or something more mundane. Pick a family member other than yourself, and write a scene from that memory from their perspective instead of your own.
• Write a story where the first line is: “The sun was burning his nose, and all he could think about was chicken nuggets.”
• Write 200 words about the room you’re sitting in right now.
• Write 400 words about the room you wish you were sitting in right now.
• Disregard whatever you know about the history of PopTarts . Imagine a board meeting where the concept of PopTarts is proposed. Write the scene.
• Who is your favorite movie character? Who is your favorite book character? They just ran into each other. Write the scene.
• Opening line: “She’d never seen a dead body before, but, there he was.”
• Write a scene where Person A wants to get through a door that Person B is on the other side of. How does Person A try to convince Person B? Write the scene.
• Write a scene from the perspective of a fish.
• Write 500 words about a person who means a lot to you. Focus on one or two personality traits the person has, and how they’ve used those traits in a way that’s made you happy.
• Write a scene from the perspective of a toddler who really, really, REALLY wants some fruit snacks. How do you convince the gatekeeper of the fruit snacks to give them to you?
• Opening line: “The moon was bright. Not that he could see it.”
• Closing line: “They’d miss each other, but hey, at least it happened.”
• A famous couple is on their way to an awards show, but they’re in a fight. Write what happens on their limo drive.
• Look through what you’ve written over the past 26 days and pick one prompt that you want to expand upon. Write at least 400 more words about whatever it is.
• Write a scene between a mentor and a mentee in which the mentee has to stand up for him or herself because the mentor isn’t giving him/her enough credit.
• Opening line: “He woke up to the sound of someone breathing, which was startling enough. Things didn’t get less startling when he rolled over to see who was asleep next to him.”
• Opening line: “As they walked through the forest, they heard a branch snap under the weight of a boot. But it was too far away to have been caused by either of them.”

When you finish this 30 days, applaud yourself. You just created 30 pieces of writing that could now be turned into any number of new projects. You wrote. You are a writer. Good job, friend.

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Lauren Harkawik

Lauren Harkawik is a journalist, essayist, and fiction writer based in Vermont. You can read her writing on her website.

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Develop a Daily Writing Habit with the Write Now! 30-Day Challenge By Jennifer Onorati

Want to strengthen your writing?

Start with a daily routine.

This 30-day challenge is perfect for starting small … and sticking to it!

Get started below … and move one step closer to banishing blank page blues.

For added accountability … post about your daily practice on social media! Remember to tag us @AmericanWritersArtistsInstitute on Facebook and @awaicopywriting on Instagram to show us how you’re doing and to give us permission to re-share your amazing progress!

Write Now! 30-Day Challenge

Day 1: try a before-and-after approach by heather robson.

When writing persuasive copy, you must convince your reader that your product will change his life.

Day 2: Write the Next Chapter of Your Life By Lori Allen

Take control of your life by being responsible for every moment. If you do, each chapter will end the way you want.

Day 3: You Know More Than You Think You Do By Christina Gillick

We’re all full of interesting information and hungry to learn more. Learn something new today and share it wide.

Day 4: Become an Email Subject Line Machine By Pam Foster

Practice writing stronger email subject lines with this video from Pam Foster, Director of Copywriter Training at AWAI.

Day 5: Email a Story with Good Advice By Pam Foster

Collect 7 pieces of advice to share with a college graduate and write a story email. Do the same for a client.

Day 6: Decide When You Really Like to Write By Casey Demchak

Build a strong writing habit by choosing the best time of day for you and sticking to it.

Day 7: Where Do You Generate Your Best Ideas? By Casey Demchak

Like all writers, you must determine when and where you usually come up with your best ideas.

Day 8: Get Unstuck by Going in Reverse By Marcia Yudkin

Trick your mind out of writer’s block by writing deliberately bad copy… you’ll be surprised how many good ideas will grow.

Day 9: Ask Your Prospect 20 Questions By Jim Wright

Have a list of 20 or more questions to ask prospects about your product … both prospects that love it and those that find it useless.

Day 10: How Do You Want to Be Remembered? By Ted Capshaw

Another exercise to build up your storytelling chops… this time doing some soul-searching to define what people will remember about you.

Day 11: Describe Your Perfect Childhood Day By Jen Adams

To build up your storytelling chops, reminisce about your favorite day as a child, teenager, and adult, and write down your stories.

Day 12: Write a Vacation Postcard By Christy Goldfeder

In this exercise from Christy Goldfeder, get your imagination going and create a picture by vividly describing a vacation memory.

Day 13: Interview a Famous Person By Pam Foster

Practice your interview skills by writing a question script for someone you admire.

Day 14: Powerful Proofing Tips By Nick Usborne

Use Nick’s techniques for making your copy stronger.

Day 15: Your Major Marker Event By Ted Capshaw

Ted Capshaw, leader, coach, facilitator encourages all writers to be in touch with their feelings. Listen to Ted’s Truth on how to do that.

Day 16: Your Most Powerful Tool: The Verb By Jen Stevens

Good verbs infuse your writing with more spunk. Listen to copywriter and editor, Jennifer Stevens, and practice using your most powerful tool.

Day 17: Jumpstart Your Headline Writing By Elizabeth Blessing

Copywriter Elizabeth Blessing shows you a simple technique to stimulate your headline writing.

Day 18: Put Your Most Important Word Last By Gordon Graham

It’s a proven fact that people tend to remember the first and last items in a series best. And, the words in the middle always get lost. When writing copy, always save your strongest words for last.

Day 19: Write from Emotion By Carline Anglade-Cole

Spinning yarns and telling stories is an art. And being able to make others get caught up in your story by writing from emotion is a gift.

Day 20: Copy Your Hero’s Copy By Steve Slaunwhite

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned copywriter, practice is the key to long-term success. Steve Slaunwhite, B2B marketing guru, shares a fun and easy way to do just that.

Day 21: Solve a Problem By Li Vasquez-Noone

Murphy’s Law says ‘Anything that can go wrong, will go wrong.’ And, it seems to happen most often on vacation or away from home. These events trigger emotions. Learning how to get past those emotions to solve the problem and then telling the whole story makes for strong copy.

Day 22: Tell Me Your Biggest Fear By Christina Gillick

Fear can be paralyzing and brings strong emotion to the heart and mind. Write about your biggest fear and how it makes you feel. Emotions sell and fear is one of the biggest. Practice writing stronger copy with this tip from Christina Gillick.

Day 23: Paint a Vivid Picture By Charlotte Hicks

The 4 P’s of copywriting are vital to the success of any copy. Use this prompt from Charlotte Crockett to develop your skills to help prospects picture your product benefits.

Day 24: List Your Prospect’s Pain and Pleasure Points By Brian Kurtz

In this writing prompt from Brian Kurtz, you’ll dig deep to discover what motivates your prospect.

Day 25: Your Favorite Childhood Storybook By Rebecca Matter

Take a playful approach to your writing practice by describing your favorite childhood story. Watch this video by Rebecca Matter, President, AWAI, to see how you can strengthen your copywriting by writing about the sweet memories that come from recalling a favorite childhood book.

Day 26: Write About Your Best Date Ever By Mindy McHorse

Think about the best date you ever had – or maybe the worst – and write a story about it. Watch this video by copywriter Mindy McHorse, Managing Editor of Barefoot Writer, and turn a great date – or a lousy one – into a compelling story that delves into all the senses.

Day 27: Assessing Your Assets By Brian Kurtz

Put on your thinking cap to figure out what makes your product or service unique. Watch this video by master marketer, Brian Kurtz, to get on your way to writing strong copy.

Day 28: Write a Story About an Object By Heather Robson

Pick an ordinary object and create a story about it … so you can connect with your reader’s senses. Watch this video by Heather Robson, web copywriter and Managing Editor of Wealthy Web Writer, to see how you can get creative and write about an “object d’art” — bringing it to life through a story.

Day 29: Make Benefits Irresistible By Sandy Franks

In this Write Now! exercise, you’ll discover a new way to take ordinary benefits and make them extraordinary … one of the secrets to strengthening the results of your copywriting. Watch this video by Sandy Franks, Copy Chief at AWAI, to see how you can create irresistible benefits and get someone to say yes to your sales letter.

Day 30: Write Every Day By Will Newman

Practice makes perfect in most skills, and writing is no exception.

Congrats! You’ve reached the end of the Write Now! 30-day Challenge!

Tell us how you did below!

Write Now! Persuasive Writing Prompts are presented by The Professional Writers’ Alliance (PWA) — a professional association just for direct-response industry writers. Learn about the many benefits of a PWA membership.

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4 Responses to “Develop a Daily Writing Habit With the Write Now! 30-Day Challenge”

Writing a short paragraph or two about a goal you have set for the day Your content will include a subject and as many details you can spell to best describe your pathway

Dominic Guisti – over a year ago

I have set a new goal to spend time everyday reading, writing, and learning to be a freelance writer, copywriter, and content writer over the next 30 days. My display name is my nickname and the word play with the year to remind me that i am not "working", i am "playing" as writing will be fun and enjoyable to me as I continue following my dream to be a freelance from home writer.

katsplay23 – over a year ago

I wrote in my journal every single day when I was younger. I remember having stacks of notebooks. I have many notepads and journals to this very day. I know this is my true happy place. Now I get to learn how to write content persuasively and professionally for others. I'm elated to embark on such a profound journey that brings much restoration and peace. And to think this could be a main source of income for generations to come! I'm truly grateful. I'm truly thankful. I'm glad to have AWAI!

MajorFilexServicesLLC – 8 months ago

I've never had a journal, and instead, I always listed what I needed to do in my calendar book. Because of injuries, I took it upon myself to keep track of everything for specific reasons. I could write a book from the written information saved over the years. I started, or should I say, I tried to do that some ten years ago, but unfortunately, my wife became ill, and all my time was taken up in seeing to her needs. She has passed, and I am ready to continue my education through AWAI.

Johnboy5484 – 6 months ago

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Everything You Should Know About Conquering a 30-Day Writing Challenge

When the National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo) was first launched in 1999 by freelance writer Chris Baty, no one could have guessed how much traction it would gain over the following decades. With 21 writers participating in the original event, within ten years, over 200,000 people would compose a total of over 2.8 billion words. By 2015, 431,626 people participated from 633 different regions.

The challenge asks participants to write a 50,000-word manuscript between November 1 and November 30. This is not to be considered a final draft but to meet the contest rules, you have to write 50,000 words in 30 days, and there are checks and balances within the challenge to make sure writers do just that.

Basically, it's a crash course in helping writers understand the amount of discipline required for productivity and getting a novel completed. The focus is on hitting 50,000 words and writers are encouraged to finish their first draft quickly so that it can later be edited when the challenge is complete. There is no fee to participate in NaNoWriMo. You only have to register and put your best effort into completing it successfully.

30-day challenges that led to book deals

The results of a 30-day writing challenge speak for themselves. Since 2006, nearly 400 NaNoWriMo novels have been published via traditional publishing houses and over 200 novels have been published by smaller presses or self-published. Among these titles are books like:

• Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen , published by Algonquin Books of Chapel Hill
• Persistence of Memory by Amelia Atwater-Rhodes, published by Delacorte Press
• Anna and the French Kiss by Stephanie Perkins, published by Dutton Juvenile
• The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern, published by Doubleday
• Wool by Hugh Howey, published by Simon & Schuster
• Cinder by Marissa Meyer, published by Square Fish
• Fangirl by Rainbow Rowell, published by St. Martin's Press
• The Darwin Elevator by Jason M. Hough, published by Del Rey Books
• Side Effects May Vary by Julie Murphy, published by HarperCollins Publishers
• Assassin's Heart by Sarah Ahiers, published by HarperCollins Publishers
• The Forest of Hands and Teeth by Carrie Ryan, published by Gollancz
• The Cut Out by Jack Heath, published by Allen & Unwin
• The Beautiful Land , by Alan Averill, published by Ace Books

I want to participate, what should I know to prepare?

If you plan to participate in the 2010 NaNoWriMo Challenge, here are a few tips to prepare for the enormous task ahead.

Be organized

As with any task, the better organized you are, the more likely you'll be to be successful and achieve your goal. So, on the front end, you'll need to set a daily word count goal, just like bestselling authors do .

November 2019 has 30 days. This means that if you're writing every day, you need to hit a daily word count goal of approximately 1,667 words, which is right under what Stephen King sets for himself as a daily word count goal. If you know that there will be days during the month you won't be able to write (Thanksgiving, for example), you'll need to factor that in.

Don't edit, just write

In her book Writing Down the Bones: Freeing the Writer Within , which has sold over a million copies, bestselling author Natalie Goldberg advises:

Don't cross out. (That is editing as you write. Even if you write something you didn't mean to write, leave it.) Don't worry about spelling, punctuation, grammar. (Don't even care about staying within the margins and lines on the page.) Lose control. Don't think. Don't get logical. Go for the jugular. (If something comes up in your writing that is scary or naked, dive right into it. It probably has lots of energy. Natalie Goldberg, Writing Down the Bones: Freeing the Writer Within

This advice has been repeated by other bestselling authors, and it's well-known within author circles that the best way to approach writing a book is to write first, edit later. There's a very logical, scientific reason for it, too. Writers create, using the right side of the brain, while editors analyze, using the left side of the brain. It's two different processes and needs to occur at two different phases of development in your creative endeavors. Since the NaNoWriMo challenge only requires 50,000 words to be written within a month, there is no need to edit yourself. The focus should be placed entirely on the creative process of writing.

Do the prep work now

If you plan to write a fantasy manuscript, the amount of work that goes into worldbuilding on the front-end is daunting, to say the least. This video can get you started on some of the core aspects of worldbuilding .

Regardless of genre, if you're not quite sure how to build your main character, this article is a good starting point for learning about the Hero's Journey and the steps that are traditionally included in it. Since all great stories follow a similar heroic arc, it's a good idea to know this arc before creating your own hero.

Additionally, a lot of writers have seen a lot of success with using The Snowflake Method. If you don't have a ton of experience in story drafting or plotting, the Snowflake Method is an easy way to get your story on the page. This article is a basic tutorial on how to approach the Snowflake Method to get your story outlined before the NaNoWriMo challenge gets started, and is good information to know on the front-end of any attempt at writing a story.

Consider creating a scene list

While a scene list is not required for writing a novel, some writers, like author J.K. Rowling , swear by them. If you want to create a scene list before your 30-day writing challenge, this article is a great resource for learning what a scene list is and how to make one .

Let your friends and family know what you're doing

American author Jessamyn West once said, Writing is a solitary occupation. Family, friends, and society are the natural enemies of the writer. He must be alone, uninterrupted, and slightly savage if he is to sustain and complete an undertaking.

There is a lot of truth in this statement, and it's perhaps a reason why writers throughout history have been notoriously crummy spouses and parents. In fact, being able to balance one's work and family life as a writer is an obstacle many writers admit to facing, so to prepare yourself for any 30-day writing challenge, you'll need to understand this simple truth on the front-end. Especially if you have a full-time job outside of your writing endeavors, you should have the conversation with your significant other and family members so they understand the amount of privacy you'll need to get 50,000 words on the page within 30 days.

Anyone who has ever attempted to write a novel with multiple distractions around them understands that it's simply difficult—if not impossible—to do. Writing takes focus, and when you're not given the space and time to make that happen, you'll only be frustrated with the whole process and likely fall short of your goals.

Since the 30-day writing challenge is incredibly brief in the scheme of things (most writers take many months, even years, to complete a novel), this shouldn't be a difficult sacrifice for your friends and loved ones—especially if they understand how important writing is to you and the passion you have for accomplishing the personal goal of getting a book written and published. A little communication goes a long way in preempting any potential problems that could arise during the middle of your 30-day writing challenge, so make sure you take the time to explain to everyone why this is important to you and how they can help you succeed.

A final thought

If you're serious about getting a book written and published, taking on a challenge like the NaNoWriteMo is better than any writing class you could take. It will show you the enormous amount of discipline and creative effort that goes into writing a novel and set you on the path to better writing habits in the future.

Even if your manuscript is incredibly rough around the edges and needs a lot of editing, you've still done the hardest part of getting a book written, which is making that first rough draft. You'll end the 30-day challenge with a fresh perspective on your abilities as a writer and more passion to continue your goal of finding success in your creative efforts. So—what are you waiting for?

Start writing online in 30 days

Ship 30 for 30 is a self-paced course that has taught over 10,000 students the fundamentals of digital writing. ‍ but unlike other writing courses, you won't learn passively – you'll create 30 pieces of published writing in public, build lifelong friendships, and leave with a new perspective for what is possible online. ‍, stop overthinking. finally start writing in 2024., quiz: is ship 30 for 30 right for you.

Have you wanted to start writing online, but aren't sure the first step to take?

Are you overwhelmed with the number of different platforms, topics, and strategies out there for writing online?

Have you started writing online, but now feel stuck?

Are you hacking away at blog posts, publishing into the void, never gaining any traction?

Do you have plenty of ideas, but struggle to put yourself out there?

Do you find yourself creating draft after draft, never hitting publish?

If any of these sound familiar... ‍ Then Ship 30 for 30 was built for you.

What our 10,000+ alumni shippers are saying....

Alice Lemee

"If you've always wanted to start writing for yourself but came up with every excuse under the sun, Ship 30 for 30 is for you . ‍ I went from thinking I never had the "time" to write to publishing every day. It was a transformational experience and it teaches you more about yourself than you could possibly imagine. ‍ At the end of the challenge, I'd gained 3,000+ Twitter followers. More importantly , I left with a newfound sense of confidence, stronger writing capabilities, and lifelong connections."

Alex Lieberman

I have found Ship 30 for 30 to be a transformative experience . I truly mean that. And it’s such a wild thing. How simple yet how profound this simple act can be. ‍ But I’m left more energized than ever before, more creative, and more clear in thought than ever before. ‍ For the first time ever, I feel excited to sit down for 45 minutes, completely uninterrupted, and doing nothing except for think and write. — Alex Lieberman Co-founder, Morning Brew

An immersive course teaching you the fundamentals of writing online. A community of like-minded thinkers.

The constraints you need to finally start writing consistently.

All beginner writers face the same 10 problems:.

If you're reading this, chances are one (or more) of these problems are keeping you up at night (and keeping you from writing online). And chances are, you know you should be writing - which is why you're on this page in the first place. Whether it's to improve your thinking, accelerate your career trajectory, or help you quit that job you hate, writing is something that's been on your list for a while. ‍

• Distractions • Over-editing • Perfectionism • Procrastination • Self-confidence • Generating ideas • Impostor syndrome • Writing consistently • Choosing a platform • Finding time to write

The accountability you've been missing.

Maybe you've tried writing before. But, time and time again, you fall off. Something comes up. What starts off exciting becomes too difficult. And before you know it, you're back to square one. ‍ But this is because there was no accountability. ‍ You tried to start writing on your own, almost doomed from the beginning. ‍ But Ship 30 for 30 solves that problem. You write alongside hundreds of other writers all with the same goal as you: to start writing and publishing consistently. This creates accountability unlike anything you've ever experienced.

Writing alone is hard ‍ Writing with a community is easy

Demolish your bad writing habits., there are 3 killers of great writing., bad habit #1: overthinking.

So many talented writers think success is about having the best ideas. It’s not. We have learned the best ideas come as a RESULT of producing a TON of ideas. Which means not overthinking the process.

Bad Habit #2: Over-editing

Have you ever re-written and edited a piece of work for so long, you started to hate it? This is one of the most common challenges among writers. They spend so long on a piece of writing that by the time they “finish” it, they hate it—and then never end up publishing it as a result.

Bad Habit #3: Falling out of practice

As soon as you skip a day of writing, it becomes easier the next day to skip again. Skip enough days in a row, and you’ll forget you ever had a daily writing habit in the first place. Getting started (or started “again”) is the HARDEST part for writers.

Stop publishing into the void.  

The biggest mistake early writers make publishing weekly blog posts into the void. in the beginning, you think you know what you want to write about, and you think you know what people want to read. ‍ but newsflash: you don't. ‍ with this assumption, early writers enter a sloth-like feedback loop, which makes writing consistently impossible . ‍ instead, you want to make noise and listen for signal. by writing 30 essays in 30 days, you work through months worth of ideas. and by leveraging platform algorithms like twitter, you get immediate feedback on your writing..

Okay, so now I really can't deny that #ship30for30 isn't making a positive dent in my twitter growth. 🚀 Numbers speak for themselves... 🔢 Thank you @dickiebush , @Nicolascole77 and @dbustac for making this possible! 🤘 PS: and this community is 🔥🔥🔥 pic.twitter.com/BoT1nw7qku — Luis is shipping videos 🎥⚡ (@luishipero) March 9, 2021

Today marks Day 1 of the October Ship 30 for 30 cohort! Over the next 30 days, hundreds of writers will learn the fundamentals of digital writing by publishing a short, 250-word Atomic Essay every single day. October Shippers, reply with the link to your Day 1 essay below!👇🚢 pic.twitter.com/g8f7iNYRVc — Dickie Bush 🚢 (@dickiebush) October 9, 2021

Stop lurking. Start creating.

Let's be honest. if you're reading this, you know you should be writing online. since "start writing" found its way onto your to-do list, you've seen dozens of others do it successfully, building audiences, launching businesses, and unlocking new opportunities in the process. but for some reason or another, you've been putting it off. and it's probably some combination of procrastination, perfectionism, the fear of hitting publish, or thinking you have nothing worth saying. luckily, ship 30 will get you to the other side. from lurker to contributor. from consumer to creator. and once you make the leap, you'll never look back. ‍, no more blinking cursor on a blank page., if this feeling sounds familiar, you're not alone. in fact, you're just like the 5,000+ other writers who joined ship 30 for 30. ‍ well, you're like they used to be. because within days of joining ship 30, the problem goes from having nothing to write about to having too many ideas to write about (which is a good problem to have). how using our endless idea generator..

Few things flood my brain with dopamine more than planning. Planning feels so productive, but it's the cheapest dopamine there is. And if you too suffer from a planning addiction, this story of two men learning to fish is for you: pic.twitter.com/DEJbkA3OAF — Dickie Bush 🚢 (@dickiebush) July 12, 2021

Publish 30 pieces of written content in 30 days.

Writing weekly blog posts is the worst thing you can do in your first year of writing. ‍ slaving over a hot keyboard just to publish something that six people (three of which are your family members) will read ‍ no thanks. ‍ instead, you should start smaller with atomic essays. short, single ideas expressed in under 250 words. and instead of writing weekly, you should write them daily - every day for 30 days. ‍ during ship 30 for 30, you'll write 30 atomic essays in 30 days, just like this one., build an audience. build a business. build authority. build a library of content., writing online opens up limitless opportunities. we've had students go on to build audiences with thousands of raving fans. others went on to launch courses, ebooks, newsletters, and their own businesses . and some have gone on to become published authors (from the content they created during ship 30 for 30) whatever your goals are for writing online, ship 30 will get you there, faster..

Alright! The C2C LAB 🧪 is officially open 🎉 No more pre-sales, no more waiting & ahead of time. Learn how to become an intentional consumer and a prolific creator. Download and access the template & workshop INSTANTLY. https://t.co/dpUrMBpNLF — ⚡️ Ev Chapman | The Daily Creator | 1️⃣4️⃣2️⃣ Days (@evielync) May 31, 2021

Form lifelong friendships with like-minded thinkers.

"i came for the writing, but i stayed for the community.", writing on the internet can feel lonely. but, it doesn't have to be. the internet has made it easy to find others just like you. and when you join the ship 30 for 30 skool community, you'll learn and practice alongside a group of others from every time zone, continent, background, and profession. and the best part every single one of them has the same goals as you: ‍ to finally start writing online. ‍.

12 hours left to hop aboard the next Ship 30 for 30 wave! • Build lifelong friendships • Publish 30 pieces of written content • Learn the fundamentals of writing online If you're one of the 429 August Shippers, introduce yourself and meet your shipmates in the replies! pic.twitter.com/tWtGW054xn — Dickie Bush 🚢 (@dickiebush) August 6, 2021

Ready to finally start writing online?

Here's a full overview of everything you'e going to get instant access to once you hop aboard Ship 30 for 30...

🗺️ The Ship 30 for 30 Course Guide

To help you make the most out of this sprint, we created the ship 30 for 30 course guide—a printable, step-by-step guide mapping out every single task you need to complete during the program to get the most out of it. and shippers love it. because it tells you exactly what you need to get done each day of the program to be successful. so, as long as you follow the directions, we can guarantee you will have a transformational experience—just like the 10,000+ shippers who have completed the program to date..

💻 The Ship 30 for 30 Curriculum

Ship 30 for 30 is a self-paced 30-day writing challenge + curriculum teaching you: • all the fundamentals of writing online • proven idea generation & writing frameworks • headlines & hooks templates • formatting upgrades • copywriting secrets • analytics best practices • category creation and so much more (shippers frequently tell us the ship 30 for 30 curriculum alone should cost upwards of $6,000. but we’re on a mission to help 1,000,000 people start writing online, so we’ve made it much more accessible than that).

🎉 The Ship 30 for 30 Skool Community

Skool is our closed community platform where shippers can introduce themselves, chat with other shippers, interact and comment on each module, make friends, share resources, and more. this is also where you can find shipper-led events and participate in community-curated experiences writing online can be lonely—but it doesn't have to be. inside our ship 30 for 30 skool community, you will be able to meet and connect with hundreds of other likeminded writers and creators on the same journey..

🔥 Rapid-Fire Intros

Reaching out and connecting with others can feel intimidating. but in ship 30, we remove this friction with our rapid-fire introduction system. as a member of the ship 30 for 30 community, you will be able to use our rapid-fire introduction system to serendipitously meet other writers and creators the best part you can use this feature and get introduced to other shippers as many times as you want throughout your entire ship 30 experience. shippers constantly tell us this is one of their favorite parts of ship 30 for 30, and that the people they’ve met in the community have become great friends, mentors, even business partners..

📝 30 Days Of Writing Templates In Typeshare

If you’ve seen ship 30 for 30 on x (twitter) or linkedin, chances are you’ve seen the beautiful atomic essay templates we provide every shipper. shippers write and publish their essays in our very own digital writing product, typeshare. inside the web app, you have access to hundreds and hundreds of proven digital writing templates, your own customizable social blog, and even 30 days of writing prompts & templates to make sure you never run out of things to write about all throughout ship 30..

Ship 30 for 30 Bonuses!

Over the past few years, we have had over 10,000 people complete Ship 30 for 30, become prolific writers on the Internet, and unlock completely new trajectories for themselves and their careers. And we have learned that some of our other writing products have been extremely helpful additions to their journeys. So, we decided to add them into Ship 30 for 30… for free!

[BONUS #1] FREE Copies Of All Our Books ($100 Value)

Immediately when you hop aboard, we'll send over 3 free copies of our latest digital writing ebooks to help you start learning right away. ‍ the 22 laws of digital writing: a quick compilation of timeless digital writing rules to keep on your desk (or desktop), reminding you of what’s most important in your writing practice. ‍ ​ the art & business of online writing: a free copy of nicolas cole’s best-selling book, and guide to beating the game of capturing & keeping attention. the 5 pillars of digital writing:  timeless pillars to help you build a daily writing habit, create an endless idea generation system, practice the lean writing method, craft irresistible headlines, & leverage proven formatting techniques so you can build a superniche audience & make your first $1 online. the art & business of ghostwriting: lastly, as a ship 30 student, you will also get a free copy of cole's latest book—where he shares his biggest lessons after building & scaling his ghostwriting agency to over $3,000,000 in revenue (and explains why ghostwriting is the single most lucrative way to monetize your skills as a writer)..

[BONUS #2] The Lean Writing Framework ($199 Value)

The lean writing method is a dedicated mini-course showing you: • our exact weekly content creation process •all of our content strategy & distribution frameworks • templates for writing viral short-form & long-form content • and our unique approach to expand or compress any piece of content hundreds of different ways the lean writing method is how we are able to publish so much high-quality content, across so many different platforms, every single day for years on end. and how we’ve built a combined audience of over 750,000 people. and it’s yours… for free.

[BONUS #3] Become Known For A Niche You Own ($299 Value)

This mini-course is a masterclass in category creation: • how to identify lucrative niches • how to dominate a niche of your own • how to identify the most compelling problems in your niche • how to create unique & differentiated solutions in your niche • and how to create new “languaging” that people associate with you & your niche the information in this mini-course has helped us generate millions of dollars, and is absolutely essential if you want to separate yourself from any and all competition. and it’s yours… for free.

[BONUS #4] Build Your Audience On Autopilot ($199 Value)

You can spend the next year trying to figure out how to build an audience for yourself on the internet. or, we can just give you all the answers: • what time of day we post (and why) • how many pieces of content we publish each day/week •how we think about creating 3-6 month content strategies • our proven content buckets for reaching net-new readers, and resonating with our niche • and how we ultimately move our (rented) social audiences over to owned email platforms (via newsletter) and it’s yours… for free.

Week 0: How To Build A Writing Habit, Where You Should Be Writing Online, And How To Generate Ideas To Write About

You will leave onboarding week with the foundation, motivation, and confidence to become a prolific digital writer.

• ✍🏼  How to effortlessly build a lifelong, sustainable writing habit (no matter how busy you are) ‍
• ⏳ How to find and create your "sacred hours" (whether you're a morning person, night owl, or anything in between) ‍
• 📹  Create and launch your very own Social Blog, your new online home (and understand why it's better than a regular old blog) ‍
• 💪🏼 Demolish impostor syndrome, perfectionism, and over-editing once and for all (even if you think you've tried everything) ‍
• 🌎 Join the community, interact with your small group of peers interested in the same topics as you and with the same goals as you ‍
• 🧠 Go from "I have no clue what to write about" to "I have way too many ideas to write about" using our Endless Idea Generator ‍

Week 1: How The Game of Digital Writing Works (And How To Play It Well)

On the Monday after onboarding week, you will write and publish your very first Atomic Essay. And then, your ship is sailing and there's no turning back. Week 1 is about learning how the game of digital writing works (and how it's different than the legacy writing world). ‍

• ✍🏼  Publish your first week of essays, saying goodbye to sweaty palms and racing heart that come with the fear of hitting publish ‍
• 🕸  Learn to take 1 idea and say it 100 different ways using the 4A Framework (so you never run out of things to say again) ‍
• 🙀 Overcome perfectionism by "giving yourself permission to create junk" (and watch your confidence skyrocket as a result) ‍
• 💪🏼  Use "The Golden Intersection" to get comfortable writing about yourself (without being arrogant) ‍
• ⚓️ Create your 3 Content Buckets as you learn the difference between General, Niche, and Industry audiences (so you can finally figure out who you are writing for) ‍

Week 2: How To Capture Attention, Keep Attention, And Build Credibility

By the time Week 2 comes around, you will have published more in 7 days than you have in the last 7 weeks, months, or even years. In Week 2, we cover everything you need to start to build an audience (without all of the headache and sleepless nights).

• 🎯 Learn why writing for everyone means writing for no one (and how to use Pinpoint Writing to start finding your ideal reader) ‍
• 🎮 20 Frameworks for writing headlines readers can't help but click on ( but without using any clickbait) ‍
• 🧠 Why your attempts at being "clever" may be the biggest thing holding you back (and what to do instead) ‍
• 📈 Understand the 3 Types of Credibility to start writing about something no matter your expertise ‍
• 🚀 How to use the Curiosity Gap (and the "OK?" test) to craft pieces that go viral time and time again

Week 3: How To Make Your Writing Readable, Rhythmic, And Rapidly Revealing.

During Week 3, you'll unlock some of the little-known secrets that will 10x your writing ability overnight. These frameworks lead to more 🤯 🤯 🤯  moments than any of our other live sessions - because once you see them, you will never write the same way again (and for good reason). ‍

• 🐿 How to use the "1 Chip Rule" to hook your reader and keep them reading (and why your biggest competition is TikTok and Netflix) ‍
• 🎮 5 Proven Ways To Write A Compelling First Sentence (and why this is so important) ‍
• 🎷 Learn to write rhythmically with The 1-3-1 Writing Rhythm (and how you can use this with emails, slack messages, and all types of written communication) ‍
• 📈 How to write enticing content using a speedy Rate of Revelation (so your reader is never bored again) ‍
• 💪🏼 Why "visually dense" writing could be the reason for your slow growth (and why "visually enticing" is your solution)

Week 4: Data-Driven Writing, Becoming Known For A Niche You Own, And How To Position Yourself As An Authority

By the time we get to Week 4, you will have a fundamentally new outlook for what is possible by writing online. And now, it's time to accelerate your trajectory. During Week 4, you will have published over 20 pieces of content. And now, you're going to figure out what worked, what didn't, and where to go from here. ‍

• 🐿 Learn the 7 data points you should be testing and measuring (so you can see the growth you deserve) ‍
• 📊 Master the analytics on any platform (so you can stop guessing and start doubling down on what's working) ‍
• 🚀 How to position your bio for authority and specificity (and why you're doing this wrong) ‍
• 🎷 Become known for a niche you own (and why you must stop trying to be "better" and learn to start being "different) ‍
• 📈 How to get feedback from your audience (and let them inform you what to write next) ‍

Beyond Ship 30 for 30 - Your Digital Writing Treasure Map (And How To Take The Next Best Steps)

By the end of Ship 30 for 30, you may be overwhelmed with the number of different paths you can take. So upon finishing your 30th essay, we present you with the Digital Writing Treasure Map - an overview of all of the ways you can use writing to accelerate yourself and your career. ‍

• ⚓️ Should you turn your writing into a book? ‍
• 📨 Should you start a newsletter? Or should you start writing on other platforms? ‍
• 📊 Should you create an online course? An e-book? A digital product? ‍
• 💵 Should you become a freelance writer? A ghostwriter? A copywriter? ‍
• 📈 Should you use your writing to drive traffic to your products and services? ‍

There are no right answers here! But we've had writers take every single one of these paths (and we make sure you figure out which is right for you).

Stop overthinking.

Finally start writing in 2024., question for you... ‍ do you struggle to write consistently, starting out with great ambition but then falling off or do you find yourself overthinking every piece, held back by a frustrating perfectionism that keeps you from hitting publish ‍ maybe you're familiar with the dread of the blank page and the blinking cursor staring back at you or perhaps you spend time "planning" to write by researching the newest tools, note-taking systems, and platforms, you're not alone., in fact, you're just like the 10,000+ ship 30 for 30 alumni used to be - before they joined. ‍ and after going through ship 30, these problems became a thing of the past. and from there, some went on to launch products, build businesses, and monetize their expertise. others have built audiences of raving fans, become leaders in their industries, and accelerated their career trajectories. ‍ and you're one click away from making the commitment to yourself to finally start writing online., ship 30 for 30 - live january 1st cohort enrollment.

• 🎥 30-day digital writing curriculum with examples, walkthroughs, bonuses resources, and more (with lifetime access).
• 🗺️ Guided onboarding to help you build your daily writing habit and launch your Social Blog to set yourself up for success.
• 🧠 30-day step-by-step digital writing template pack and walkthrough to help you overcome the blank page
• ✍️ Templates, frameworks, and ChatGPT prompts to help you generate ideas, write clearly, and learn the rules of writing online.
• ⭕️ Private Skool community of writers where you can meet writers & creators from all over the world.
• 🔥 Opt-in rapid-fire introduction feature, allowing you to serendipitously connect with people within the Ship 30 for 30 community directly (you never know who you’re going to meet!).
• ✍️ Leave with 30 pieces of written content, your very own Social Blog, dozens of new opportunities, and a strong understanding of how to write online to accelerate your digital career
• 🎬 LIFETIME ACCESS to the Ship 30 for 30 curriculum, library of bonuses, and Skool community.
• 💾 [BONUS] FREE Ship 30 for 30 Typeshare Template Pack ($99 Value, only available as part of Ship 30)
• 💾 [BONUS] The Lean Writing Mini-Course ($299 Value, only available as part of Ship 30)
• 💾 [BONUS] Become Known For A Niche You Own Mini-Course ($199 Value, only available as part of Ship 30)
• 💾 [BONUS] Build Your Audience On Autopilot Mini-Course ($199 Value, only available as part of Ship 30)
• 📖 [BONUS] FREE copies of The 22 Laws of Digital Writing, The Art & Business of Online Writing, Snow Leopard, and The Art & Business of Ghostwriting from Nicolas Cole
• 🔒[GUARANTEE] 100%, no-questions-asked refund policy if you complete the 30-day writing challenge and all course materials and you still aren’t satisfied with your experience (we doubt it!).

What Alumni Shippers are saying...

Ahoy from your ship 30 captains.

Dickie Bush

Ahoy! I started writing online in January of 2020 - and doing so is by far the best decision I've ever made. But for the first 9 months, I was spinning my wheels. I followed all of the conventional advice:  "write a weekly blog post on your website so you can own your platform, write about only things you want to write about" and all of that other common advice. The problem? There was no feedback loop. The weekly cadence was too slow to work through all of the ideas in my head. And since barely anyone was reading them, I had no clue what I could improve or what my readers were looking for. So I needed to try something radically different. If I was going to keep writing, I needed to tighten my feedback loops. This meant going from publishing 1000-word weekly blog posts to posting short, 250-word posts. And instead of publishing into the void of my own blog, I would post them on Twitter, where I knew there was aggregated attention. And so off I went. I challenged myself to write and publish something daily, every day for 30 days. 28 days in, the results were pretty good. My perfectionism? Squashed. My writing speed? 10x faster. My feedback loops? And damn it felt good to work through the backlog of ideas in my head. And during my personal 30 day challenge, I grew my audience by over 500%. I made my first dollar on the internet. And I woke up every morning excited to write, publish, and improve. ‍ Turns out there was something to this writing and publishing every day idea. I knew there had to be thousands of others out there who were facing the same creative friction as me, and this idea could help them burst through it. So I sent a tweet to my nascent following of 500 people.

Who would want to be a part of a group where every person writes 30 screenshot essays in 30 days? • Eliminate the friction of shipping • Every post under 200 words • Pick a theme and create an asset around it • Accountability from a group of people doing it with you — Dickie Bush 🚢 (@dickiebush) November 3, 2020

Six days after that tweet, we had 50 people in a Slack channel and we were off and running. Every person committing to writing and publishing every day for 30 days. Learning, iterating, building friendships, and having a damn good time doing it. Nine months and 1,800 students later, Ship 30 for 30 has evolved from a Slack channel to an immersive, cohort-based writing course and community. Cole and I have packed everything we know about building habits and writing online into over 20 hours of curriculum. We've built templates and guides to help anyone, no matter their level of experience, start writing online. And we've built a rich, diverse community of like-minded writers and thinkers. I can attribute every good thing in the last 18 months of my life to writing every day. I've gotten to meet and connect with people I used to idolize.  And best of all, I've helped over 1,800 people experience the benefits that come with writing online. And the best part of this whole thing? Ship 30 for 30 is just getting started. And we'd love to have you on board. ‍

Nicolas Cole

Ahoy! As a teenager, I had one of the first e-famous gaming blogs on the Internet. I went on to study creative writing, fiction writing, and literature in college. But when I graduated, I had no idea how I was going to turn this passion of mine for writing into a career. I took a job as an entry-level copywriter at a local advertising agency in downtown Chicago, but that's not what I really wanted to do. I wanted to write books. I wanted to share my own thoughts and ideas with the world (not write social media copy for pizza chains and coconut water brands). So, in an attempt to build myself as a writer in the digital age, I gave myself a goal. I challenged myself to write every single day, on a website called Quora, for a year straight. Best-case scenario, I would experience some sort of life-changing result and my writing would take off. Worst-case scenario, I'd spend a year doing something I already loved and enjoyed, which was writing. Well, writing every single day on Quora changed the entire trajectory of my life. I ended up accumulating millions of views on my writing. In fact, one of my Quora answers ended up on the front page of Reddit, accumulating over 1,000,000 views in 48 hours. By 2015, I was the #1 most-read writer on all of Quora (out of 200 million users). And by 2016, I was invited to have my own column with Inc Magazine —where I wrote 400+ columns for the publication exclusively and became one of their Top 10 most-read contributing writers. By the end of 2016, 3 short years after writing every single day on Quora, I successfully quit my job as a copywriter and began freelance writing for founders, CEOs, and venture capitalists. By 2017, I had built a multimillion-dollar ghostwriting agency employing a dozen writers and editors, ghostwriting on behalf of hundreds of industry leaders. And by 2020, I had turned everything I'd learned about writing online into a book, called The Art and Business of Online Writing .This brings us back to the beginning of the story. By the time Dickie and I met, and I gave Ship 30 for 30 a try, I knew the importance of building a daily writing habit. Why? Because building daily writing habit was how I got my start as a writer. Challenging myself to write and publish something, anything, on Quora, every single day for a year, changed my life. And I knew what Dickie was building had the potential to change other people's lives too. And the rest is history. Combined with Dickie's incredible idea for a cohort-based learning experience for writers, I brought in 10+ years of online writing insight to create a curriculum for anyone looking to get STARTED. It had taken me years to learn many of these lessons on my own. But in Ship 30 for 30, we believed we will shorten your growth curve down to just 30 days.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does this cost.

Other courses charge upwards of $7,000 to help you start writing online. But our goal with Ship 30 is to keep it accessible while still charging enough to keep you accountable. The full price of the course is $350.

Can I gift enrollment of Ship 30 for 30 to a friend?

Absolutely! And what a tremendous gift indeed. To do so, simply enroll using your email address. Then, send an email to "[email protected]" with the subject line GIFT TRANSFER REQUEST and we will send you further instructions.

Is this a self-paced thing or is it cohort-based?

Ship 30 for 30 is 100% self-paced, with a community component. As soon as you join, you will gain instant access to the entire 30-day curriculum hosted inside Skool (a community platform), as well as every single added resource and bonus listed here. And you will have access to all of it forever . So you can work your way through these as quickly or as leisurely as you want.

What commitment is required from me?

Again—we want to give you the flexibility to go as quickly (or as leisurely) as you'd like. So, it’ll be up to you. But Ship 30 for 30 is structured in a way where even people with full-time jobs and kids can still succeed. If you can allocate ~30 minutes to yourself each day, you will be able to breeze through Ship 30 for 30 no problem.

Couldn't I just do this myself with all of the free content out there?

If you could, you would have already. 🤷🏻 ‍

Can I buy one or some of these "mini-courses" separately?

Unfortunately, no. Ship 30 for 30 is structured the way it is because we have learned EXACTLY what information you need, and what actions you need to take, in order to be successful. If we started breaking it apart, we would be doing you a disservice.

What if I've never written online before?

Then Ship 30 for 30 is perfect for you! We’ve engineered this program so that even complete beginners (who don't even have active social media accounts) can get started and not get lost along the way.

What if I’ve been writing online for years. Will this teach me anything new?

Out of 10,000+ people taking Ship 30 for 30, we can honestly say that not once have we had someone go through the program and say, “I didn’t learn anything new.” Even seasoned writers and best-selling authors! Ship 30 for 30 is the premier digital writing program, and is everything legacy English programs have no clue how to teach: the fundamentals of writing on the Internet.

How long do I have access to the course materials?

Lifetime access!

How is Ship 30 for 30 different from Premium Ghostwriting Academy?

Ship 30 for 30 is our beginner writing program, whereas Premium Ghostwriting Academy is our more advanced, more hands-on ghostwriting program. Ship 30 for 30 sets the foundation for writing online, building an audience, and eventually monetizing through digital products. Whereas Premium Ghostwriting Academy trains writers on how to land high-ticket clients and monetize by providing a service.

No-Questions-Asked Refund Policy

Want to see some of our frameworks in action.

Check out this preview of how we think about writing irresistible headlines—just one of the many concepts we teach you inside Ship 30 for 30. ‍

Over 10,000 writers have built a daily writing habit through Ship 30 for 30.  ‍ Get to know a few of them here!

One last thing..., if you're down here, you might be thinking... is this really worth it  and sure - you could go and stitch together all of the glorious free content we've put out there on all things digital writing. and you could use all that content to try and start writing on your own. but i'm guessing that if you're on this page, and you've read this far, you've tried something like this before. and the results... well... they're not what you've been hoping for. and since "start writing" entered your to-do list (likely long ago), you've probably seen dozens of other people do it successfully, building audiences and businesses in the process. so here we are, 2023 has flown by. that blank page and crisp fresh start just a little bit away. now, wouldn't it be magical to look back at the end of 2024, pointing to this exact moment, this exact decision, as the thing that led to an incredible, lifechanging year  a new business, a new career, new friendships, a completely new personal trajectory, all of these are possible - all from the simple habit of writing online. and it can all start right here, right now. so, what do you say ‍, still overthinking it... ‍ here's sneak peek of the frameworks you'll learn inside... ‍.

• 🐦 Follow Dickie Bush on Twitter 🐦 Follow Nicolas Cole Twitter
• 📺 Ship 30 for 30 Youtube
• 🎧 Digital Writing Podcast

🔒 Privacy Policy 💼 Terms & Conditions

30-Day Journal Challenge for Getting Unstuck When Life Feels ‘Meh’

By Mena Joseph | Published on: 6 August 2024 | last Updated: 6 August 2024

We sometimes use affiliate links in our content. If you click and buy from one of these, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more.

Sleepwalking through life is a silent epidemic.

It’s that nagging feeling that you’re just going through the motions, not really knowing what you want, but at the same time having this deep sense of knowing there’s something more out there for you.

And so you end up watching your days melt into weeks, and the weeks disappear into months, and before you know it, a whole year has gone by and you still have this ‘stuck’ feeling.

How do I know this so well? Because I’ve been there myself—twice.

And trust me, living the exact same year on repeat is no joke.

If you’ve been feeling a little lost, or unfulfilled, with a gnawing sense of untapped potential, I want to invite you to join this 30-day journal challenge for self discovery .

It’s not some magic fix-all solution. Instead, think of it as a personal roadmap. A series of simple, daily prompts designed to help you peel back the layers and rediscover the real you – the one who’s been hiding under all those “shoulds” and “musts” that society’s been piling on.

If you’re ready to stop sleepwalking and start living, let’s go.

How This Journaling Challenge Works

If you’ve never taken part in one, you’re probably wondering, “what is a journaling challenge?”

A journal challenge is a guided activity where you commit to expressing yourself – your thoughts, feelings and emotions – for a set period of time.

This exercise could go on anywhere from a few days, to a month. Sometimes even longer.

I’ve found that the sweet spot for a challenge like this one is 30 days – long enough to get into the momentum of journaling, but short enough to maintain motivation and commitment.

Challenges include journal prompts that are usually centered around a specific theme or topic that’s related to an area the participant, or challengee, wants to improve. These areas might include increasing gratitude , developing greater self-awareness , or practicing mindfulness .

For this challenge, our focus is on self-discovery.

I’ve written 30 prompts, one for each day, and these are broken down into six interlinked areas:

• Your Values : Identifying what you hold dear.
• Your Mindset : Developing your thoughts and attitudes.
• Your Passions : Exploring what drives and excites you.
• Your Aspirations : Identifying what you want to achieve.
• Your Habits : Building daily practices that support your growth.
• Your Connections : Understanding your relationships and social interactions.

How you approach these prompts is flexible – you can tackle a single prompt a day, or multiple prompts in one sitting, or even stretch them out over a longer period, like one a week. The pace is entirely up to you.

What’s in This Challenge for You?

I’m not promising you dramatic change overnight. what you’re likely to gain, though, is a clearer picture of who you are, what truly matters to you, and where you might want to go from here.

Armed with this deeper understanding, you’ll find yourself better equipped to make more meaningful decisions and take purposeful actions, that lead to gradual, genuine change.

The “Rules” of the Challenge

Rules are so restrictive, so technically there aren’t any. But, if you want some pointers to keep you on track, here are a few friendly suggestions you might find helpful:

Don’t worry if you skip a day. It isn’t the end of the world, and it doesn’t mean you’ve failed. It just means that life got in the way, and you can pick it back up again the next day.

Try not to miss more than two days in a row. Keeping the momentum is key. Missing more days can make it harder to restart, so do your best to get back into the rhythm.

Write as much or as little as you like. There’s no pressure to fill a page—just let your thoughts flow freely. Some days, a few words will be all you can muster; other days, you might write a whole essay. It’s all good.

Not into writing? No problem. Journaling is about expressing yourself in a way that feels right. Feel free to try alternatives to writing – doodling, drawing, painting, or even recording audio. Whatever works for you.

Link your journaling to a daily habit. Do you take five minutes in the morning to drink your coffee, or in the evening while you’re unwinding before bed? Use that time to also journal so it becomes part of your ritual.

Now, grab your journal or empty notebook and let’s begin the challenge.

The 30-Day Journal Challenge Prompts

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Your Values

Day 1: what’s one thing you’ve always believed in (secretly, or openly), even when it wasn’t easy.

Think about something you’ve stuck to, even when it would’ve been easier to give up. Maybe it’s being honest, even when a white lie seems tempting. Or standing up for someone, even when others didn’t.

Why does this matter so much to you? How has it shaped your life? Remember times when holding onto this belief was tough. What kept you going?

Understanding what we truly believe in, especially when it’s hard, can tell us a lot about who we are and what we care about.

Day 2: Think of a time when you felt genuinely proud of yourself. What values were you honoring?

The things that make us feel proud show us what we really value in life. So go back to a time when you felt really good about yourself. What did you do? Were you brave? Kind? Hard-working?

Think about why that moment made you feel proud. Was it because you helped someone? Overcame a fear? Achieved a goal?

Day 3: What’s a decision you regret making? What value did it conflict with?

Sometimes we make choices we wish we’d made differently, but our regrets teach us what’s important. Describe what happened. Why did you choose what you did at the time? Does your decision still bother you? Now, try to figure out why it doesn’t sit right with you.

Did you let someone down? Ignore your gut feeling? Go against something you believe in? If you could go back to that time and what would you decide to do instead?

Day 4: If you could change one thing about society, what would it be and why?

Thinking about what we’d like to change in the world can tell us a lot about what matters to us personally.

Write about what concerns you most about the world we live in right now. Is it how people treat each other? The way we handle money? How we treat the planet? Why does this particular thing get under your skin? How has it affected you or people you care about?

Day 5: What’s a value you’d like to embody more in your daily life? What’s holding you back?

Think of a quality you admire in others. Maybe it’s being more patient, braver, or kinder. Now, be honest with yourself – what’s stopping you from being more like that? Is it fear? Habit? Lack of time?

Once you know what’s in your way, try to think of small, everyday ways you could start living up to this value.

Your Mindset

Day 6: what belief about yourself is holding you back the most.

We all have that nagging voice in our head that tells us we can’t do something. What does yours say? “I’m not smart enough”? “I’ll never be successful”? Where do you think you picked up this idea, and how has believing it affected your life?

Now, let’s poke some holes in it. What proof do you have that it might not be true? How might things be different if you didn’t believe this about yourself? Challenging these thoughts we have about ourselves is the first step to getting unstuck.

Day 7: How do you typically react when faced with uncertainty? How could you respond differently?

Life throws all sorts of curveballs at us, but how we deal with them makes a big difference in how we feel day to day. So how do you usually handle times of uncertainty?

Do you worry a lot? Avoid making decisions? Or do you get excited about the possibilities? Think about recent times when you weren’t sure what would happen. How did you deal with it? Did your reaction help or make things worse?

Now, imagine handling it differently. Could you see the unknown as a chance to learn something new? Can you focus on what you can control and let go of the rest?

Day 8: What’s a story you keep telling yourself that might not be true?

We have go-to explanations for why things are the way they are in our lives. What’s yours?

Maybe it’s “I’m just not a people person” or “I’ll never be good with money.” Now, let’s fact-check this story. Is it really true, or is it just something you’ve gotten used to believing? How has thinking this way affected your life?

What if you tried on a different story? You don’t have to believe it right away, just imagine how things might be different if you did.

Day 9: If you could give advice to your younger self, what would it be?

Imagine you could have a conversation with your younger self.

What would you want to say? Maybe it’s “don’t worry so much” or “take more chances.” Think about why you’d give this advice. What have you learned since then? And how much of this advice do you still need to hear today? Often, what we wish we knew back then is exactly what we need to remember right now.

Day 10: What’s one way you could be kinder to yourself starting today?

A lot of the time we’re our own worst critics. How do you talk to yourself, especially when things go wrong? Now imagine how you’d treat a friend in the same situation. Could you be that understanding with yourself?

Think of one small way you could be nicer to yourself. Maybe it’s taking a break without feeling guilty, or praising yourself for small wins.

Your Passions

Day 11: what did you love doing as a child that you no longer do.

Think back to when you were a kid. What made you lose track of time? Maybe it was drawing, building things, or making up stories. Why did you stop doing it?

Sometimes we leave behind things we love because we think we’ve “grown up” or they’re not practical. But those childhood joys tell us a lot about what really lights us up. Could you bring a bit of that back into your life now? It might spark something you’ve been missing.

Day 12: If you had one year to pursue anything without consequences, what would you choose?

Imagine you’ve got a free pass for a year. No need to worry about money, what others think, or failing. What would you do? Travel the world? Start a business? Learn to play an instrument?

Your answer will reveal passions or dreams you might have pushed aside.

Day 13: What’s a skill or hobby you’ve been curious about but haven’t explored yet? What’s stopping you?

We all have that thing we say we’ll learn “someday.” What’s yours? Maybe it’s a language, a sport, or a skill. Now, be honest – what’s really keeping you from starting? Is it time? Money? Fear of looking silly?

Sometimes naming the real obstacle is the first step to overcoming it. Through reflecting on it, see if you can find a way around it. Even if that means taking the tiniest step towards learning something new?

Day 14: When was the last time you felt completely absorbed in an activity? What were you doing?

Remember a time when you were so focused on something that you forgot to check your phone, or eat? What were you doing? It could be anything – cooking, fixing something, helping someone, or solving a problem.

These moments of flow are clues to what truly engages us. They’re worth paying attention to because they point to activities that make us feel alive and fulfilled.

Day 15: If you could instantly master any talent or skill tomorrow, what would you choose and why?

If you could instantly be great at something new, what would you pick? Don’t overthink it – go with your gut. Now, why that particular skill? Is it something you’ve always admired in others? Something that would make your life easier or more fun?

Your Aspirations

Day 16: what’s one small change you could make today that would bring you closer to your ideal life.

Think about how you’d like your life to be. Now, what’s one step you could take today to move in that direction? It doesn’t have to be big.

Maybe it’s sending an email you’ve been putting off, or spending 10 minutes on a hobby. Small changes add up over time, but only if you start somewhere.

Day 17: If you knew you couldn’t fail, what would you start doing immediately?

Imagine failure wasn’t an option. What would you try? Start a business? Perform on stage? Ask someone out? Our biggest dreams are the ones we’re most afraid to pursue.

This prompt will help you recognize what you really want, deep down. Once you know that, you can start moving towards it in real life.

Day 18: What does success look like to you, beyond societal expectations?

Forget what your parents, friends, or society say success should be. What does it mean to you? Is it about relationships? Personal growth? Making a difference?

Your idea of success might be totally different from what you’ve been chasing. Understanding your own definition will help you focus on what truly matters to you, not what others expect.

Day 19: What’s a goal you’ve been putting off? What’s the smallest step you could take towards it?

Breaking big goals into super small steps makes them feel less overwhelming. And taking that first step, no matter how small, can give you the momentum to keep going.

Day 20: If you could design your perfect day five years from now, what would it look like?

Imagine waking up five years from now on a perfect day. What does it look like? Who’s there with you? What are you doing? Give yourself full permission to dream even if it feels a little silly to do so.

Your Habits

Day 21: what’s one habit that’s not serving you well.

We have habits we know aren’t great for us. Things like doom scrolling on our phone first thing in the morning, or saying yes when we want to say no . Pick one that you would like to change.

Day 22: What’s a small, positive habit you could start tomorrow?

Think of one tiny good habit you could start right away. Make it so small that it feels almost too easy. Like drinking a glass of water when you wake up, or stretching for two minutes a day. The smaller it is, the more likely you are to actually do it. And these tiny habits can grow into bigger changes over time.

Take this prompt further. Get intentional about building new habits with this habit tracking workbook .

Day 23: How do you typically spend your free time? Does this align with your goals and values?

Are you scrolling social media? Watching TV? Hanging with friends? There’s no right or wrong answer, but does how you spend your time match up with what you say is important to you?

If not, how could you shift some of that time to activities that better reflect your goals and values?

Day 24: What’s one thing you could do daily to feel more fulfilled?

Think of something small you could do every day that would make you feel good. It might be calling a friend, writing in a journal, or spending time on a hobby.

It doesn’t have to take long – even 5 or 10 minutes will make a difference. The key is doing it consistently. How could you fit this into your daily routine?

Day 25: What’s a habit you’ve always admired in others? How could you incorporate it into your life?

We often admire in others what we want to develop in ourselves.

Is there a habit you’ve noticed in someone else that you admire? Maybe they’re always reading, or they stay calm under pressure. You don’t have to copy them exactly – think about how you could adapt it to fit your lifestyle and personality.

Your Connections

Day 26: how have your actions positively influenced someone else.

Think about a time recently when something you did really made someone’s day better. What happened, and how did it affect them?

Now, think about how your positivity makes you feel and what it reveals about your interactions. How can you keep spreading this energy in your daily life?

Day 27: What relationship in your life needs the most attention right now?

Relationships need care, just like plants need water. Which of your relationships feels a bit neglected? Maybe it’s with a friend, a family member, or even yourself.

Why do you think it’s been overlooked? What small thing could you do to start nurturing this relationship again?

Day 28: How do your relationships impact your sense of purpose or fulfillment?

Think about the people in your life. How do they affect how you feel about yourself and your life? Do some relationships energize you, while others drain you?

Understanding this can help you focus on nurturing the connections that support your growth and happiness.

Day 29: What’s a conversation you’ve been avoiding that might lead to positive change?

We put off having certain conversations because we feel uncomfortable about approaching the subject. What’s something you’ve been avoiding talking about?

Maybe it’s about a problem in a relationship, or a change you want to make. Why have you been putting it off? How might things improve if you had this conversation?

Day 30: If you could strengthen one aspect of your social life, what would it be and why?

Look at your social life as a whole. What area could use some work? Would you like to make new friends, deepen existing relationships, or get better at setting boundaries.

Why does this area feel important to you? What’s one small step you could take to start improving it?

Our connections with others play a huge role in our happiness, so it’s worth putting some thought into this.

Congratulations! You’ve made it to the end of this 30-day journal challenge. Give yourself a big pat on the back for sticking with it.

You’ve gained valuable insights into your values, passions, and aspirations.

But know that this is not the end, it’s just the beginning. Keep using what you’ve learned about yourself to make small changes in daily life. Try setting some goals based on your new self-knowledge, or adjust your routines so they line up with your true values.

And if, or when you’re feeling stuck again in the future, revisit this challenge. These prompts will always offer you a fresh perspective.

As a big nerd of human nature, Mena holds two degrees in psychology. One of which is a master's in health psychology from City, University of London. Mena also has a certificate in counselling skills and was on track to becoming a psychotherapist before embracing her passion for creating journaling tools and resources. Mena lives in the UK, and is an avid journaler, meditator, researcher, and lifelong learner. She's also a social dancer who enjoys weightlifting.

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51 Inspiring 30-day challenge ideas to improve your life

30-day challenge ideas to transform your life.

If you’re looking to boost your personal growth, implement positive change, or improve your overall health and happiness, then  30-day challenges  are the perfect way to do so. 

30-day challenges allow you to take small but consistent steps toward making lasting improvements in various areas of your life.

So in this article, I will provide you with a list of 30-day challenge ideas encompassing various aspects of a healthy happy life.

 From fitness and health to self-care and personal development, I’ve got you covered.

 These 30-day challenges will help you create new habits, learn new skills, and become the best version of yourself all in 30 days.

Key Takeaways

• 30-day challenges can boost  personal growth  and  positive change
• Challenges cover diverse areas such as fitness, self-care, and  personal development
• Consistent small steps can lead to lasting improvements
• Choose challenges that resonate with you and align with your goals
• Celebrate your progress and take time to reflect on your journey

What are 30-day challenges?

30-day challenges are short-term commitments you make to engage in a specific activity or adopt a particular behavior for 30 days.

These challenges are meant to encourage your growth, help establish new habits, or guide you in achieving specific goals within a manageable timeframe.

Examples include fitness challenges, mindfulness practices, dietary changes, or creative pursuits.

The 30-day structure provides a focused and achievable approach to personal improvement.

Why should you do a monthly challenge?

A monthly challenge is a fantastic way to infuse your life with positive energy and personal growth.

By dedicating yourself to a specific goal or activity for 30 days, you create a structured and achievable roadmap for self-improvement.

It’s enough time to change a bad habit and develop new habits.

The magic of a 30-day challenge lies in the short, focused timeframe – it’s long enough to see tangible progress yet short enough to stay motivated.

Whether it’s cultivating a new habit, adopting a healthier lifestyle, or exploring a creative pursuit, these challenges provide a sense of accomplishment, boost your confidence, and can lead to lasting positive changes.

So, why not embrace a monthly challenge and watch yourself flourish?

How do 30-day challenges work?

A 30-day challenge involves your commitment to a specific activity or behavior for, you guessed it, 30 consecutive days.

You choose an area of personal development, set a goal, and make it a daily practice.

The short duration makes the challenge more accessible and helps you build discipline

The power of habit formation comes into play as engaging in activity daily for a month helps solidify the behavior.

Regular tracking, your sense of accountability, and the support of a community, often found online, contribute to your success by providing motivation and encouragement throughout the 30-day journey.

These challenges are designed to be effective, manageable, and rewarding and a great way to start positive changes in your life. 

Tips on successful 30-day challenges

Completing a 30-day challenge requires commitment, planning, and a positive mindset. So let’s look at some tips to help you succeed with 30-day challenges:

Set Clear Goals: Clearly define what you want to achieve by the end of the 30 days.

Ensure your goals are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART).

Start Small: Begin with manageable tasks, especially if you’re new to the habit or activity.

Gradually increase the difficulty or intensity as you progress.

Create a Schedule: Plan when and where you’ll engage in the challenge each day.

Incorporate the challenge into your daily routine to make it a habit.

Track Your Progress: Keep a daily log or use a tracking app to monitor your progress.

Celebrate small victories and milestones to stay motivated.

Stay Consistent: Consistency is key to forming habits. Stick to the challenge every day, even on weekends.

Don’t get discouraged if you miss a day; pick up where you left off.

Stay Accountable: Share your challenge with friends or family to create accountability.

Consider joining online communities or social media groups for support and motivation.

Remind Yourself Why: Remember the reasons behind taking on the challenge.

Keep the benefits in mind to stay motivated during challenging days.

Adjust as Needed: Be flexible and open to adjusting to the challenge if necessary.

If you find the initial goal too challenging, modify it to make it more achievable.

Pair Habits: Combine the new habit with an existing one to make it easier to remember.

For example, if you want to start a morning workout routine, pair it with your morning coffee.

Reflect at the End: Take time to reflect on what you’ve learned and achieved during the 30 days.

Consider how you can integrate the new habit into your long-term lifestyle.

Reward Yourself: Celebrate your success at the end of the challenge with a small reward.

This positive reinforcement can help reinforce the habit.

Prepare for Challenges: Anticipate obstacles and have a plan to overcome them.

Identify potential triggers that might hinder your progress and find solutions.

Remember, the purpose of a 30-day challenge is to create positive habits and foster personal growth.

 Approach it with a positive attitude, and don’t be too hard on yourself if you face setbacks.

Learn from the experience and use it as a stepping stone for future challenges and self-development. 

Health and Fitness 30-Day Challenge ideas

The  30 -day health and fitness challenges are a great way to kickstart your physical and mental health and overall sense of well-being.

Whether you’re looking to lose weight, improve your  energy levels , or get toned, there are a variety of exercises and  nutrition  habits you can adopt to enhance your overall health. 

These 30-day challenges are perfect for anyone looking for a fun and rewarding way to incorporate healthy habits  into their daily routine.

Choose one or a few challenges to start with and see the positive impact on your life.

Here are some 30-day health and fitness challenges to get you started:

1. 30 Days of Walking

Set a goal to walk a certain number of steps or distance each day for 30 days. 

This 30-day challenge is a great idea because walking not only boosts physical fitness and your mood, but improves cardiovascular health, and is a great way to spend time outdoors.

2 . 30 Days of No Added Sugar

Challenge yourself to eliminate added sugars from your diet for a month.

This can help reduce inflammation, improve  energy levels , and stabilize blood sugar. 

Sugar indeed causes so many health problems, including obesity and even problems with mental health. 

You may be surprised to find out all the foods that contain sugar you may not be aware of.

 So during this challenge read labels before you buy food.

Learn various names for sugar such as dextrose, maltose, and many more so you can spot the hidden sugars that food companies try to sneak by. 

3. Cut Out Junk Food

Junk food  is not only bad for your health, but it can also be expensive.

Challenge yourself to cut out  junk food  for 30 days and cook healthy meals at home instead.

Not only will you save money, but you’ll also feel better!

4. Bodyweight Workout Challenge

No gym? No problem! This challenge involves bodyweight exercises that you can do from anywhere.

You can start with 3 lb weights and work yourself to 5 lbs lifting a certain number each day and working yourself up for a month.

By the end of the month, you will be toned and feeling great physically and mentally.

By the end of the challenge, you’ll have improved your strength, stamina, and flexibility.”

5. Healthy Eating Challenge

Healthy food is so important so taking a monthly challenge to eat right has many health benefits.

In 30 days you may even develop new healthy eating habits and overcome fast food addiction which is great for your health. 

Say goodbye to processed foods! This challenge encourages you to incorporate whole foods into your diet, such as fruits, vegetables, and lean protein.

Each day, you’ll be provided with different healthy meal ideas to try.

By the end of the challenge, you’ll have developed  healthy habits  that will support your long-term wellness goals.

6. Eat more veggies and fruits challenge

Many of us just dont get enough veggies and fruits in our diets.

Boost your health overall by increasing the amount of fruits and veggies you eat.

You can improve your health a lot by aiming to eat at least 5 servings every day.

You will be taking in several vitamins such as folate and another B vitamin, vitamins C and K necessary for good Health.

In 30 days you will significantly increase your magnesium and iron intake, zinc, and other minerals and you will notice you feel better overall.

This is a good challenge for your health.

7. Have a phone-free/digital-free dinner challenge

We are so tethered to our phones that we cannot even put them down to have a conversation at dinner.

Try this challenge and change your dinner time for 30 days or maybe forever.

That would be great. When you eat without a phone or TV blaring you are more mindful.

Eating mindfully is so important because it helps you enjoy your food more and even more importantly you are likely to eat less.

Additionally enjoying the company of those you love is better than scrolling social media. 

8. Cooking Challenge

A 30-day Cooking Challenge is a great way to develop essential culinary skills, fostering a deeper connection with the food you consume.

 It promotes healthier eating habits, creativity in the kitchen, and a sense of accomplishment as you prepare a nutritious home-cooked meal for yourself and those you love. 

9. Cardio Challenge

This challenge involves incorporating cardio exercises into your  daily routine .

Taking a 30-day Cardio Challenge is an amazing way of enhancing cardiovascular health.

Regular cardiovascular exercise contributes to improved stamina, increased energy levels, and the potential for weight management. an important way to maintain a healthy and active lifestyle.

Each day, you choose a different exercise to try, such as running, cycling, or jumping jacks.

You can have a calendar with a cardio exercise for each day.

However, it’s okay to repeat any exercise you like as long as it gets your heart pumping.

By the end of the challenge, you’ll have increased your  energy levels and improved your overall fitness.

10. 30 Days of Water

Challenge yourself to drink the recommended daily amount of water for 30 days. 

Not only will this improve your physical health, but it can also enhance your skin and  energy levels .

If drinking water is a problem for you, having a good water bottle can help. Try one that shows how much water you are drinking to motivate you 

11. 30-day plank challenge

Participating in the 30-Day Plank Challenge provides a targeted approach to strengthening core muscles. 

A strong core supports overall physical health and contributes to better posture, reduced risk of injuries, and improved athletic performance. 

And when you are nice and toned, think about how great you will feel. 

Plus, looking amazing in your lovely clothes is awesome and boosts self-confidence. 

However, when it comes to fitness many other ideas are fitting of a 30-day challenge such as:

• Jumping jerks challenge
• Burpees challenge
• Squats challenge
• Sit-ups challenge
• Wall exercise challenge
• Jumprope challenge and many more

12. Take your vitamins challenge 

 Taking your vitamins for 30 days every day is a great challenge to take because let’s just face it- many of us dont get enough optimal nutrition and we need supplements and vitamins to meet our daily health needs for proper nutrition. 

Ensuring your body receives essential vitamins and minerals daily is crucial for optimal functioning, immune support, and long-term health. 

This challenge encourages the establishment of a consistent and beneficial healthy habit.

13. A 30-day green smoothie challenge

The 30-Day Green Smoothie Challenge introduces individuals to the benefits of incorporating nutrient-rich greens into their diet. 

Green smoothies are a convenient and delicious way to increase daily fruit and vegetable intake, providing essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. 

You can make it easier by buying fruit in bulk and portioning them into ziplock bags and just add a few ingredients like protein powder, and flax seeds when you make the smoothie.  Use smoothies as ae meal replacement either for breakfast or lunch. When you make healthy smoothies you can lose up to 10 pounds or more in a month. 

14. Go vegetarian or vegan for 30 days

Going Vegetarian or Vegan for 30 Days is a significant dietary challenge with potentially profound impacts.

 This challenge will allow you to explore plant-based eating, known for its potential health benefits, environmental sustainability, and ethical considerations.

It encourages mindfulness about food choices and can lead to long-term dietary adjustments.

15. 30 Days of Yoga

Engaging in 30 Days of Yoga is a transformative commitment where you dedicate a consistent daily practice to the ancient discipline of yoga for a month.

This challenge involves participating in guided yoga sessions, whether online or in-person, every day for 30 consecutive days.

The practice typically includes a combination of poses, breathwork, and meditation designed to enhance flexibility, strength, and overall well-being.

The structured time frame allows you to progressively deepen your practice, experiencing both physical and mental benefits.

Through this challenge, you can cultivate mindfulness, reduce stress, and develop a lasting habit of incorporating yoga into your daily routine for improved holistic health.

16. Maintaining a Daily Exercise Routine

A consistent exercise routine can help increase energy levels and improve overall health. 

This challenge involves committing to a daily exercise routine, whether it’s going for a walk, hitting the gym, or taking a yoga class.

17. No soda or sugary drinks challenge.

Did you know that there are so many calories in those sodas and sugary drinks?

If you have a habit of drinking daily soda, you may be gaining weight from the added sugar and other unhealthy additives in these drinks.

The No Soda or Sugary Drinks Challenge promotes a shift toward healthier hydration habits, reducing the intake of added sugars linked to various health issues.

Train yourself to drink water during this challenge.

In 30 days you will have lost the addiction to sugar and sugary drinks.

 This challenge supports overall physical health, and weight management, and can lead to increased energy levels.

18. No alcohol challenge

Undertaking the No Alcohol Challenge offers numerous benefits for physical and mental health.

It allows individuals to assess their relationship with alcohol, potentially leading to improved sleep, mental clarity, and overall well-being.

Self-care and self-love challenges

Self-care is fundamental for positive mental well-being and  personal growth , and dedicating time daily to develop yourself has the potential to catalyze profound change in your life.

 Welcome to the self-care and  personal development  section, where we’ll explore 30-day challenges designed to help you prioritize yourself and your mental health.

19. 30-day self-care challenge

Our first challenge is a self-care challenge. This entails committing to 30 days of prioritizing self-care activities such as taking a bubble bath, getting enough sleep, meditating, and doing something that brings you joy. 

You deserve to give yourself the attention and care that you give others.

20. Try a 30-day self-love challenge

In this challenge do something each day that boosts your self-love. It may be saying self-love and self-confidence affirmations every day, journaling every day and celebrating yourself, and daily positive self-talk all aimed to boost self-love.

Need more self-love ideas? Read this post. 

Related posts:

51 Self-love journal prompts

50 powerful Self-love questions to ask yourself 

21. Positive affirmations

 This challenge focuses on repetitively reaffirming positive statements about yourself, increasing your self-esteem, and promoting a more positive mindset. 

The 30-day challenge for reciting  positive affirmations  will help you build the habit of positive thinking, leading to an overall better relationship with yourself and others.

22. The Gratitude Journal  Challenge

 The challenge includes keeping a gratitude journal  and writing down daily small things that you’re grateful for.

 This is an excellent way to reflect on the positives in your life, making you happier and more appreciative overall.

This simple practice can shift your focus towards positivity and increase feelings of happiness.

We all have good things in our lives that we take for granted.

Start a gratitude journal during this challenge and record 3 to five things or more you are grateful for.

Doing this every single day for 30 days will open your eyes that you are blessed and is a great way to manifest even more good things in your life. 

23. Compliment yourself every day

The Compliment Yourself Every Day Challenge focuses on nurturing positive self-talk and building self-esteem.

This intentional practice contributes to enhanced mental well-being, increased self-confidence, and a more positive outlook on life.

Learn to talk to yourself like you would a friend and see your self-confidence soar in 30 days!

24. 30 Days of Meditation

Experience the benefits of meditation by practicing it daily for a month. 

Start with just a few minutes a day, and gradually increase the time as you become more comfortable.

25. The New Hobby Challenge 

The new hobby challenge invites you to explore and cultivate a new skill or passion, providing an avenue for creativity, learning, and personal fulfillment.

Engaging in a new hobby can bring joy and a sense of accomplishment, contributing to overall well-being.

Need some fun hobby ideas? Here are the 27 best hobbies to try. 

26. 30 Days of Creative Expression

Set aside time each day for a creative hobby, such as painting, writing, or playing music. 

Engaging in creative expression can reduce stress, increase happiness, and boost confidence.

27. Sunscreen Every Day Challenge

The Sunscreen Every Day Challenge emphasizes the importance of sun protection for skin health.

Consistent use of sunscreen helps prevent sun damage and premature aging, and reduces the risk of skin cancer, promoting long-term skin well-being.

28. Establishing Good Sleep Habits

Getting adequate sleep is important for productivity, physical health, and mental health. 

This challenge involves establishing a consistent sleep schedule, minimizing  screen time  before bed, and creating a relaxing bedtime routine.

Also, consider no caffeine after 2 pm to enhance your sleep. 

Aim to get at least 7-8 hours every day, and hopefully by the end of the month you will continue to get optimal sleep.

Related post: How to sleep better at night .

29. Skincare routine challenge

The Skincare Routine Challenge encourages the establishment of a consistent and personalized skincare regimen.

Adopting a skincare routine contributes to healthier skin, and improved complexion, and can serve as a form of self-care and relaxation. Plus when your skin looks healthy and flawless you will feel much better about yourself and can be quite a confidence booster. 

30. Night Routine Challenge 

Undertaking a 30-day self-care night routine challenge is a holistic approach to improving sleep quality and overall mental health.

Throughout this period, you cultivate a calming and consistent pre-sleep routine that signals the body to wind down.

The practice of relaxation techniques, such as reading or gentle stretching , contributes to reduced stress and anxiety levels, fostering a more peaceful state of mind.  With a focus on gratitude exercises and self-reflection, the night routine becomes a sanctuary for mindfulness, promoting a positive outlook and helping you fall asleep faster too. 

You will experience improved sleep patterns, waking up feeling refreshed and ready to face the day.

This 30-day commitment not only enhances nightly rituals but also establishes a foundation for sustained well-being and a more balanced lifestyle.

31. Breaking Bad Habits

Have a 30-day challenge to break a bad habit. This challenge is about breaking bad habits that hinder productivity and personal growth.

 Start by identifying the habit you want to break and finding healthier alternatives. 

For instance, if you tend to procrastinate, set specific deadlines.

 If you have a habit of checking your phone constantly, engage in other activities that help you disconnect.

32.  Connect with family and friends challenge

Reach out by a phone call text or FaceTime to a friend or family each day for 30 days and strengthen those connections. We are meant to be social beings and not by scrolling social media but through authentic connections. You will be so much happier by the end of the month. 

Building and strengthening relationships is essential for emotional well-being, creating lasting memories, and fostering a sense of belonging and support.

Habits and Personal Development

Developing  good habits  is a key element of personal development in both personal and self-improvement.

It takes roughly 30 days to form a habit, and this is where a  30-day habit challenge  can be a game-changer. 

By incorporating these challenges into your daily routine, you can establish positive habits to help you become your best self.

So choose a 30-day challenge to grow as a person and see your life start to change for the better.

33. Learn a New Language

Learning a  new language  can be a challenging but rewarding experience. There are numerous benefits, including improving your cognitive function and increasing your job opportunities.

Choose a language you’ve always been interested in and dedicate time each day to practicing.

You can utilize language learning apps, join online groups, or take classes to accelerate your progress.

34. Develop a New Skill

How about a challenge to learn a new skill in 30 days? 

Acquiring a  new skill  can enhance your career prospects and lead to personal growth. Choose a skill you’ve always wanted to learn, such as coding, graphic design, or public speaking, and set a goal to practice every day for 30 days.

You can utilize online courses, books, or podcasts to gain knowledge and improve your skills.

35. Focus on Professional Development

Professional development involves taking steps to improve your knowledge and skills in your work field. Use these 30 days to establish a  professional development  plan.

Set goals, attend workshops, read business books, or seek advice from a mentor in your industry.

Whether you’re interested in learning a new language, acquiring a new skill, or developing professionally, these 30-day challenges are an excellent way to jumpstart your journey of continuous learning and growth.

36. Do a 30 Days of No Complaints challenge

Challenge yourself to go an entire month without complaining. This one can be tough but well worth it. This challenge can help shift your mindset towards positivity and gratitude and improve your relationships and overall well-being.

37. 30-day positive self-talk challenge

Embarking on a 30-day positive self-talk challenge is a transformative journey essential for your personal development.  How often do you do you engage in negative self-talk? 

And think about it.

 Negative self-talk doesnt do anything at all but chip at your mental health and confidence, derailing you in so many ways in life.

 So quiet your negative mind and empower yourself with positivity through a 30-day positive self-talk challenge. 

Positive self-talk is the cornerstone of cultivating a resilient mindset, boosting self-confidence, and overcoming negative thought patterns.

 By embracing this challenge, you will learn to challenge negative thoughts become happier, and enjoy life more. 

38. 10 -15 minutes decluttering a space in your house.

Engaging in a 10-15 Minutes Decluttering Challenge is a simple yet powerful commitment to creating a more organized and harmonious living environment. 

This challenge encourages you to dedicate a short but consistent amount of time daily to decluttering a specific space in your house. 

Whether it’s a drawer, a shelf, or a room, this practice helps eliminate unnecessary items, create a sense of order, and promote a more serene atmosphere. 

Over time, these small, focused efforts accumulate, resulting in a decluttered and visually appealing home. 

This challenge not only transforms your living space but also contributes to reduced stress, increased productivity, and an overall improved quality of life.

And by the end of the month, this habit may turn out to be life lifelong habit of keeping your house tidy and organized. 

Pick one area of your home each day to declutter for a month.

39. Do a 30-day random act of kindness challenge.

Each day for 30 days do something nice for someone. It may be people you know or strangers.

You may let someone go before you in line at the grocery store, hold an elevator door, help a coworker, or do something nice for a family member.

It can be as small as a smile to a stranger so the choices are endless.

40. Make your bed everyday challenge

A 30-day challenge to make your bed is a simple yet transformative commitment that can positively impact your daily routine.

By cultivating the habit of making your bed every morning, you set a positive tone for the day and create a sense of order in your living space.

This small act becomes a cornerstone for building discipline, fostering a tidy environment, and instilling a sense of accomplishment from the moment you wake up.

The 30-day timeframe allows you to solidify this habit, turning it into an automatic part of your morning routine, and the ripple effect can lead to increased productivity and a more organized lifestyle.

Productivity challenges

41. start a morning routine

Morning Routine Challenge Embarking on a 30-day morning routine challenge offers transformative benefits for both mind and body.

Over this period, the structured routine becomes ingrained as a habit, leading to increased productivity and mental clarity.

The consistent practice of goal-setting, exercise, and mindfulness fosters a positive mindset that extends throughout the day, enhancing overall well-being.

With a heightened sense of organization and reduced morning chaos, participants often find themselves better equipped to tackle daily tasks and goals.

Additionally, the 30-day commitment allows for the identification of personalized habits that truly resonate, paving the way for a sustainable and fulfilling morning routine that can positively impact one’s life long after the challenge concludes.

Related post: Best morning habits of high performers

42. the writing every day challenge.

This challenge promotes self-expression, self-reflection, and personal growth through the practice of daily writing.

Whether it’s journaling, creative writing, or expressing thoughts and ideas, consistent writing can be a therapeutic and empowering outlet.

43. Creating a Daily To-do List

This challenge involves creating a daily  to-do list  and sticking to it for 30 days. 

A  to-do list  can help you prioritize your tasks, increase productivity, and reduce stress. Start your day by writing a list of tasks and tick them off as you complete them.

44. Social Media and Digital Detox 30-Day Challenges

Social media can be a huge time-waster. Challenge yourself to spend  less time  scrolling through your feeds and more time engaging in productive activities.

Also, excessive screen time can have negative effects on our mental well-being and productivity. 

This is where a 30-day social media and digital detox challenge can help.

During this challenge, try limiting your social media use to a set amount of time each day and avoiding mindless scrolling.

Instead, make the most of your free time by taking up a hobby, spending time with loved ones, or getting outdoors.

If you find that social media and your phone are a major distraction, consider leaving them in another room during designated work or relaxation time.

Use apps that track your  screen time  and set a daily limit.

Implementing a digital detox can provide benefits beyond increased productivity and a clear mind. 

Try reducing the amount of screen time before bed for better sleep or experimenting with a “no-phone” day once a week or more during this challenge. 

You may be surprised at how liberated you feel!

Excessive  screen time can hurt your mental and physical health too so this challenge will not only give you more time to be productive but also boost your health. 

Examples of Challenges

• Only check social media once a day for 30 days.
• Set a limit on daily screen time and stick to it.
• Have a “no-phone” day once a week for a month.
• Commit to a new hobby or form of exercise during  free time  previously spent on social media.

These small changes can add up to big improvements in your overall well-being, so try a 30-day challenge today and see how it impacts your life!

45. Incorporating Rest Days into Your Schedule

Rest and recovery are essential to healthy living. 

This challenge is about incorporating  rest days  into your schedule.

To make the most of your rest days, engage in activities that help you relax and recharge, like reading a book, spending time in nature, or meditation.

46. Wake up earlier challenge

Waking up early has so many benefits, especially for productivity.

Try waking up 30 minutes earlier than you wake up now every morning for 30 days. 

This will allow you to practice a healthy morning routine to start your day right and positively. 

Financial 30-Day Challenges

Managing your finances effectively is crucial for a fulfilling life. It’s easy to get caught up in daily habits that can waste your money. 

By taking on these 30-day financial challenges, you’ll be able to make positive changes in your lifestyle and money management. 

I would say that a financial challenge is one of the best 30-day challenge ideas I would encourage you to take. 

47. 30-Day Money Saving Challenge

 The 30-day money-saving challenge  is a great way to reduce your expenses and save money.

Start by setting a budget and tracking your expenses. 

Embarking on a Money-Making Side Hustle challenge opens up opportunities for additional income streams and financial empowerment.

This challenge encourages you to explore your skills, interests, and resources to identify a side hustle that aligns with your passions.

Whether it’s freelancing, online tutoring, selling handmade goods, or offering a service, a side hustle can supplement your income and potentially grow into a sustainable venture.

The challenge involves setting clear goals, dedicating time and effort, and leveraging available platforms or networks.

Through this journey, you can not only enhance your financial situation but also gain valuable entrepreneurial skills and diversify your sources of income.

48. Stick to your budget

Embarking on a Stick to Your Budget challenge is a powerful commitment to financial well-being and responsible money management.

This challenge encourages you to meticulously plan and adhere to a budget, fostering financial discipline, and cultivating mindful spending habits. 

By tracking income and expenditures, setting realistic financial goals, and making informed decisions, you can gain control over your finances, reduce stress, and work towards achieving long-term financial stability. 

This challenge serves as a transformative journey toward financial empowerment, providing a clearer path to meet your financial objectives and build a more secure future.

49. Enhance Your Professional Life

Whether you’re looking for a new job or trying to advance in your current career, there are always ways to enhance your professional life.

Challenge yourself to learn new skills, attend networking events, or take on new responsibilities at work for 30 days.

50. Try a 30-day meal planning challenge

Meal planning is a great way to save money on groceries and eating out.

You will be surprised by the amount of money you spend on groceries or eating out.

But when you plan your meals, you are less likely to be impulsive with purchases, you will also make fewer trips to the store restaurants, or fast food joints.

Plus meal prepping is a great way to eat healthier for a month which may very well become a way of life by the end of the month.

51. Track your spending for the 30-day challenge

Tracking your money for 30 days is a great challenge to help you see where your money is going and to help you assess how you are handling your spending.

It allows you to see where the loopholes are and if you are overspending.

Look at those frivolous or impulsive expenditures and from there you can plan to do better with your spending by adhering to a budget.  

In  summary , 30-day challenges provide an excellent opportunity for personal growth and  positive change . 

By committing to a challenge for an entire month, you can develop healthy habits, and new skills and make long-lasting improvements in various areas of your life.

 Whether you’re focusing on fitness, self-care, productivity, finances, or another aspect, a 30-day challenge will help you initiate and sustain positive transformations.

Remember, the key to success with these challenges is to approach them with a positive attitude, a growth mindset, and a willingness to learn and adapt. Small steps taken consistently can lead to significant progress and a better quality of life.

Incorporating these 30-day challenge ideas into your routine not only adds variety and richness to your life but also contributes to holistic well-being.

They provide opportunities for self-discovery, meaningful connections, and the development of habits that nurture both personal and interpersonal aspects of your life.

Try these challenges as invitations to explore, connect, and express yourself in new and fulfilling ways.

 Remember, 30-day challenges are not about perfection but progress, so don’t be too hard on yourself if you miss a day or two. 

Just pick up where you left off and keep going! Wishing you all the best in your next 30-day challenge!

Tell me in the comments which 30-day challenge you would like to do. I will be rooting for you!

30-day challenges are short-term commitments to specific activities or habits that you do consistently for 30 consecutive days. 

They are a great way to push yourself outside of your comfort zone, create positive change, and establish healthy habits.

Why should I try a 30-day challenge?

30-day challenges provide the perfect amount of time to try something new, develop a habit, or achieve a small goal. 

By dedicating just a month to a specific challenge, you can see tangible progress and experience the benefits of making positive changes in your life.

How do 30-day challenges benefit personal growth?

30 day challenges can help you develop new skills, improve your discipline and motivation, increase your self-confidence, and enhance your overall personal development.

 By challenging yourself and stepping outside of your comfort zone, you can unlock new potential and aspire to be the best version of yourself.

Are 30-day challenges suitable for beginners?

Absolutely! There are plenty of beginner-friendly 30-day challenges that can help you ease into the concept and gradually build momentum.

These 30-day challenge ideas provide a fun way to introduce positive habits into your daily life without overwhelming yourself.

How do I choose the right 30-day challenge for me?

The best way to choose a 30-day challenge is to consider your personal goals and interests. 

Think about areas of your life you want to improve or explore. 

Whether it’s fitness, self-care, productivity, or learning a new skill, select a challenge that aligns with your priorities and resonates with you.

Can I do multiple 30-day challenges at the same time?

While it’s technically possible to do multiple challenges simultaneously, it’s generally recommended to focus on one challenge at a time.

This allows you to fully dedicate yourself to the specific goals and habits associated with that challenge, increasing your chances of success.

What happens after the 30-day challenge is over?

After completing a 30-day challenge, reflect on the experience and the impact it had on your life. Take note of the positive changes you’ve made and consider whether you want to continue with the challenge or move on to a new one.

 You can choose to repeat the challenge, extend it, or explore a completely different challenge to continue your growth journey.

How can I stay motivated throughout a 30 day challenge?

Here are a few tips to stay motivated during a 30-day challenge: – Set clear goals and remind yourself of the benefits you will gain.

Track your progress to see how far you’ve come. – Stay accountable by sharing your challenge with a friend or joining a supportive community.

Break the challenge into smaller milestones to make it more manageable.

Celebrate your achievements along the way to stay motivated and inspired.

Are there any specific benefits to doing a 30-day fitness challenge?

Yes, there are many benefits to engaging in a  30-day fitness challenge . Regular exercise can improve your physical health, boost your energy levels, help with  weight loss , and enhance your overall mood and mental well-being.

Additionally, completing a fitness challenge can instill discipline and establish a routine that can extend beyond 30 days.

Can I create my 30-day challenge?

Absolutely! You have the freedom to create your 30-day challenge based on your unique goals and interests.

 Identify an area of your life that you want to improve, set specific goals, and establish a daily routine or action plan to follow. Remember, the key is consistency and commitment for the entire 30-day duration.

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30 Examples of 30-Day Challenges That Will Change Your Life

Look at life as if it's a series of experiments. change your habits for 30 days and see what happens..

When it comes to self-improvement, two of the biggest stumbling blocks I see people encounter in my therapy office are a lack of motivation to get started and a fear that a goal will be too overwhelming.

I often prescribe 30 day challenges as a way to help people tackle both of those issues. But, I don't tell them what to do for 30 days. Instead, I help them design their own challenge.

Thirty day challenges feel doable--you can do almost anything for 30 days. You can also use a 30 day challenge as an experiment. If it enhances your life, you'll create momentum that motivates you to create more positive change. 

If, however, you decide your challenge isn't helpful--perhaps waking up 30 minutes earlier reduces your productivity--you'll at least know you gave it your best effort for one month.

There are many online groups, courses, and books that tout 30 day challenges for anything from diet changes to cleaning habits. And while many of them can be quite effective, you don't necessarily need to join a pre-established challenge.

In fact, you may be better off designing your own challenge. Then, you can ensure you're working toward a goal that will really enhance your life.

30 Day Financial Improvement Challenges

Whether you want to make a big dent in your debt, or you want to start contributing more to your retirement, the right challenge could give you a big jumpstart toward a brighter financial future. Here are a few examples of ways you might spend less or save more in one month:

• Save $500 in the next 30 days
• Earn an extra $1000 in the next 30 days
• Pay off a certain bill
• Stop shopping online
• Stop dining out

30 Day Clutter Clearing Challenges

Most people own too much stuff. And too much clutter means you'll be distracted from your work, you'll spend more time cleaning and looking for misplaced items, and you'll struggle to stay productive. These 30 day challenges can help you clear the clutter one step at a time:

• Get rid of 30 trash bags full of items
• Keep your desk clean and clutter-free
• List 5 items for sale online every day
• Find 3 items to donate every day
• Identify one small area to clean each day (closet, junk drawer, cabinet, etc)

30 Day Social Interaction Challenges

Whether you want to increase your face-to-face contact with your friends or you want to learn to speak up for yourself, improving your social interactions is important. Here are some challenges that you could do every day for one month to have more positive social interactions:

• Send a thank you note to someone
• Invite a co-worker or friend for coffee
• Speak to a stranger
• Compliment someone
• Practice saying no to things you don't actually want to do

30 Day Health Improvement Challenges

From changing your diet to increasing your workout habits, to getting more sleep and taking your vitamins, there are many challenges that can address your health. Here are a few challenges that could help you reset your habits:

• Write down everything you eat every day
• Eliminate a certain food or ingredient (like sugar or caffeine)
• Exercise for 20 minutes
• Walk one mile
• Go to the gym every day

30 Day Mental Strength Building Challenges

If you want to feel less stressed, reduce your negative thinking, and regulate your emotions better, create a mental strength challenge for yourself. Here are a few examples of ways you can build mental muscle in 30 days:

• Start a gratitude journal
• Practice using kind words with yourself
• Limit your contact with toxic people
• Do something that makes it impossible to feel sorry for yourself
• Schedule 30 minutes to worry each day (to reduce rumination)

30 Day Time Management Challenges

Whether you procrastinate too much, or you never have time to do the things you really want to do in life, create a challenge that will help you prioritize your activities and manage your time better. Here are a few ways you might eliminate time wasters or build in time to accomplish more:

• Limit social media to 10 minutes a day
• Schedule your time every day in 15-minute increments
• Turn off electronics at 8 PM
• Schedule 30 minutes each day to tackle a specific skill you want to learn or a project you want to complete

Create a New Challenge for Yourself Every Month

Look at each month as an opportunity to start a new 30 day experiment. Whether you eliminate a bad habit or establish a healthier routine, you'll learn a lot about yourself and the strategies that can help you live your best life.  

Sometimes, one simple change is all it takes to make life better. So start experimenting and challenge yourself to try something new each month. 

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30 Day IELTS Writing Challenge

Posted by David S. Wills | Apr 11, 2018 | YouTube | 4

I have some exciting news.

Think of it as as sort of boot camp:

Oh, did I mention it’s FREE ?

Every day for a month, I will post a new video to YouTube explaining how to get your IELTS writing scores up. I will post activities and essays, and the first commenter on each video gets their essay marked for free.

So… How can you sign up for this fantastic, free program?

It’s simple. Just go sign up for my YouTube channel . Don’t forget to click the “notification” bell so you’ll be alerted when I post. If you want the best results, you should watch every day and do all the tasks assigned. If you do all this, by the end of the month, your IELTS score will definitely have improved.

About The Author

David S. Wills

David S. Wills is the author of Scientologist! William S. Burroughs and the 'Weird Cult' and the founder/editor of Beatdom literary journal. He lives and works in rural Cambodia and loves to travel. He has worked as an IELTS tutor since 2010, has completed both TEFL and CELTA courses, and has a certificate from Cambridge for Teaching Writing. David has worked in many different countries, and for several years designed a writing course for the University of Worcester. In 2018, he wrote the popular IELTS handbook, Grammar for IELTS Writing and he has since written two other books about IELTS. His other IELTS website is called IELTS Teaching.

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Feeling excited about 30 day writing challenge!!! Any suggests on its starting date ?

I’m not sure. I will let people know in advance when I have selected an appropriate date.

Dear sir, Any specific date for 30 day IELTS writing chalange caurse introduce.

There was not as much interest in this project as I had anticipated, so I have delayed it a little. I will start this summer.

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