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The 21-Day Challenge

The 21-Day Challenge

In his book “Psycho-Cybernetics,” self-help author Maxwell Maltz popularized the idea that it takes 21 days to form a new habit. Therefore, as a means of ringing in the new year by forming new, healthy routines for 2026, the SAGA team embarked on a 21-day challenge. The rules were simple: choose one manageable goal to perform daily for 21 days straight. Afterward, we ranked our experience on a scale of 0-13.

Kylie Oswald:
I devoted my 21-day challenge to journaling and reflecting on my day. I am very happy with my results. I did not miss a single day, and I am still journaling now. I feel as though journaling before bed every night helped me calm down, notice the good things, and think about things to improve for the next day. Journaling also has improved my writing. I am hoping to continue this habit throughout the new year. Overall grade: 13/13.

Astrid Phillips-Geeza:
I turned 21 ordinary days into 21 positive days by altering my digital algorithm into a positive one. On the days I completed the challenge I liked positive, motivational Tiktoks, and listened to positive music (along with other social media apps). It created a more positive and motivational mood. On the days that I listened to sad music and liked negative Tiktoks, I felt more sadness and had less motivation. However, the days that I did not do my challenge were far fewer than the days I did. Overall Grade: 10/13.

Danni Kim:
My goal: Keeping my phone in another room when I do my homework or study. On the days that I did the challenge, I felt more accomplished and would be more focused when doing my work. I would be able to sit down at my desk for two hours or more without losing my focus. On the days that I didn’t, I would have a hard time trying to focus since I would be near my phone. I would end up doomscrolling and procrastinating on my homework. Overall Grade: 8/13.

Mary Aram:
My goal was to do five pushups a day. The more days that passed, the easier it got. On the days I completed the challenge, the simple accomplishment gave me a feeling of satisfaction and motivation to do more. The only thing that stopped me was my trip to New York City. I was not going to touch the city ground. I now have enormous muscles, and the grind will not stop. I would highly recommend this challenge. Overall grade: 8.61/13.

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