The Writer’s Life July Contest
Write Your First Substack Post … and You Could Get a $200 Prize!

A paid Substack post!? Yes!!

For this contest, you’re going to write your very first Substack post using a simple three-part formula. If yours is one of the top entries, you’ll win $200 — and we’ll feature your post in The Writer’s Life and on the AWAI website.

Not a bad reward for just 200 words.

We’re doing this to help you build real writing momentum — fast.

No overthinking. No perfectionism. Just a chance to get your words out into the world.

These contests bring out some of the most creative writing we’ve seen from our members.

We read every single entry, and it’s amazing to see how many writers surprise themselves with what they can create.

And yes — we send those $200 prizes to the winners!

Contest and Submission Details

👉 Use the simple Substack post formula (provided here).
👉 Keep it to 200 words.
👉 Make it conversational and genuine.
👉 Submit it here by midnight, July 31.
👉 One entry per person.

Remember: Following directions is key — so stick to the formula and word count!

We can’t wait to read your post.

Time to start writing — and good luck!

Check Out the Past Winners Here

• May 2025 Winners
• April 2025 Winners
• March 2025 Winners
• January 2025 Winners
• October 2023 Winners
• July 2023 Winners
• March 2023 Winners
• January 2023 Winners
• December 2022 Winners
• November 2022 Winners
• October 2022 Winners
• September 2022 Winners
• August 2022 Winners
• July 2022 Winners
• June 2022 Winners
• May 2022 Winners
• February 2022 Winners

Do you have any questions? Contact our amazing AWAI Member Success Team and they’ll get back to you very soon!