How It Works
Getting started is easy. In just five minutes per weekday over four weeks, you can help overcome toxic polarization in your life and our country. Join thousands of Americans taking The Challenge right now.
3 Simple Steps To Get Started
Step 1: Set a reminder
Commit to The Challenge: one exercise per weekday for four weeks. Start by setting a reminder. We'll send you a quick email or text each day, to help you build the habit.
Step 2: Start off easy
Each day, select one of three exercise options: easy, intermediate, or advanced. The easy exercises can be completed in as little as 5 minutes. Choose the exercise that matches your energy for the day.
Step 3: Keep it up and spread the word!
Keep it up and encourage others to join you in The Challenge by sharing it with your family, friends, and colleagues.
Weekly Building Blocks
Each week focuses on a different skill building block to address polarization in different areas of your life.
- Week 1 Building Block:
Address you own divisive habits.
- Week 2 Building Block:
Reintroduce honesty and tolerance within your political in-group.
- Week 3 Building Block:
Overcome tension in your more politically-estranged relationships.
- Week 4 Building Block:
Mobilize together in cross-partisan groups to tackle shared concerns.
Five Skill Drills Each Week
Getting The Most From The Challenge
We have found The Challenge is most effective when participants do the following:
Start Small. Begin with easier and quicker exercises to get going.
Locate the Toxins. Start by reflecting on how polarization is damaging your life and relationships today - this helps you choose what to work on.
Find a Friend. Try doing The Challenge with friends or co-workers, so that you have others to complain to and celebrate with. This is a game-changer.
Subtract. Think about what you could stop doing each day to make time for these activities, like unplugging from your devices for an hour. It helps!
Set a daily reminder
Get daily exercise reminders on your phone or email throughout The Challenge to stay on track.
- Better navigate politically polarizing situations
- Repair strained relationships with family and friends
- Become a less reactive and more effective communicator
By submitting your cell phone number, you are agreeing to receive periodic text messages from Starts With Us. Message and data rates may apply. Text HELP for more information. Text STOP to stop receiving messages.