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That Winning Feeling

© Donna Dunn

Everybody loves a winner. And judging by the number of websites geared to contests and sweepstakes these days, everybody loves to be a winner, too.

Winning feels good, and since most of the contests and sweepstakes are free to enter, who doesn't want to get something for nothing? There's a multitude of sites to choose from, so there's sure to be an online contest that's just right for you. It costs us time, not money, and even though the odds are most definitely stacked against us, there is still the teensy-weensy chance that we may get lucky. And maybe have some fun while we're at it.

For most regular sweepstakes contests, all you have to do is enter your email address, your real-world address and possibly some general demographic information, like age, occupation, marital status, etc. (The better to market to you, my dear.) Some contests allow one entry per day, others allow multiple entries per day. And despite the minimal requirements, these no-brainers can offer some pretty hefty prizes.

Online contests and sweepstakes aren't without their downside, however. Many have specific age and residency requirements, so it pays to read the official rules of every contest site you enter. And that can be time-consuming. As well, for most contests you have to disclose at least some personal information. Sometimes your innocent entry can result in a deluge of unwanted mail for your in-box. There's also the chance that the contest you enter is bogus, just a ruse to gather some demographic information about you.

And given the number of sites out there, the odds are also pretty high that you could waste a lot of time just trying to choose a contest or sweepstake that you would like to enter. If the choices seem overwhelming, check out Suite 101 contributing editor Carrie Romero's reviews, recommendations and articles at Sweepstakes and Contests.

Although not as plentiful as the no-brainers, there is also an increasing number of online think and win contests. (Well, maybe you won't win, but at these contest sites you do have to think.) Although requiring an investment of your skills as well as your time, these contests can be a little more satisfying, cerebrally speaking.

Poets can submit their work to the 13th Tri-Annual Poetry Card Contest at Blue Mountain Arts. The contest closes Feb 20, 2001, and you can enter as often as you want. There are four top prizes of $300 each, four second prizes of $150, and eight third prizes of $50. There is no entry fee, but the rules say the contest is void where prohibited, so if you live there you shouldn't enter.