Sweepstakes can be thrilling—until they’re not. You’re entering contests every day, checking your inbox religiously, and still… nothing. No wins, no emails, no exciting packages. Just silence.
If that sounds familiar, welcome to the world of the sweepstakes dry spell. It happens to everyone, and yes—it can be tough. But just because the wins have slowed down doesn’t mean your luck has run out. Here’s how to stay motivated and keep entering, even when the prize train takes a break.
Dry Spells Happen to Everyone
No matter how long you’ve been sweepstaking, dry spells are part of the experience. Some weeks you’re on fire, others? Ice cold. That’s just how it goes.
Understanding this upfront takes the pressure off. It’s not personal. It’s not that you’re doing anything wrong. The numbers just haven’t fallen in your favor yet—but that can change at any time.
Focus on the Fun, Not Just the Prizes
The best way to survive a dry spell? Find joy in the process.
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Discovering new sweepstakes
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Entering creatively (hello, photo or caption contests!)
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The rush of submitting a great entry
When you stop measuring success by how many wins you get and start enjoying the experience itself, the motivation comes back naturally.
Create a Sweep Routine That Fits Your Life
One way to stay motivated is to keep it simple and consistent. Try:
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Setting a daily sweep time (15–30 minutes)
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Choosing a mix of easy-entry and creative contests
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Using a tracker or calendar to stay organized
Having a routine keeps the hobby from feeling overwhelming or stressful.
Switch Gears: Try New Types of Contests
If the usual sweepstakes aren’t delivering, change things up:
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Look for giveaways hosted by smaller brands or local businesses
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Try skill-based or creative contests (caption, essay, or photo)
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Focus on instant win games for faster results
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Enter niche contests that match your interests (pet lovers, foodies, bookworms, etc.)
A fresh challenge can make sweeping feel exciting again.
Set Entry Goals—Not Win Goals
We all want to win, but focusing only on the prize sets you up for disappointment. Instead, create goals you can control:
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“I’ll enter 10 contests today.”
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“I’ll find and enter 5 new local giveaways this week.”
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“I’ll organize my entries by end date this weekend.”
These kinds of goals give you a sense of progress—no win required.
Celebrate Milestones That Matter to You
Just because you haven’t won doesn’t mean you’re not making progress. Celebrate when you:
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Hit a certain number of entries
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Try a new sweepstakes format
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Get your first follow or comment from a brand
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Learn something new about how to enter more efficiently
Those mini victories are all signs that you’re on the right track.
Lean Into the Community
One of the best ways to stay motivated? Connect with others who get it. Join sweepstakes groups on Facebook, Reddit, or other forums where you can:
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Share new contests
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Celebrate wins together
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Get encouragement during dry spells
Talking to others can remind you that the slow periods are normal—and that better days (and prizes) are ahead.
Take a Break If You Need To
There’s no rule that says you have to enter every day. If it’s feeling like too much, it’s okay to hit pause.
Take a weekend off. Skip a few days. When you come back, you’ll be refreshed—and probably a lot more excited to dive back in.
Keep the Big Picture in Mind
Most sweepers aren’t in it just for one win. They’re in it for the long haul—for the thrill, the fun, and the occasional surprise. That long-term mindset can help you through the quiet weeks and make the wins even sweeter when they return.
You’ve Got This—The Wins Will Come
Every sweepstakes dry spell ends eventually. And when it does? You’ll be glad you stuck with it. Keep entering. Keep experimenting. And keep celebrating the little moments along the way.
Because your best day ever? It might be one click away.