Vents Magazine

Shonda Scott: Visionary Leader, Global Traveler, and Creator of the 12 New Things® Challenge

[as originally published on ventsmagazine.com]

Shonda Scott, Founder and CEO of 360 Total Concept, is a visionary leader who has driven transformative projects with major organizations such as BET, Uber, and Kaiser Permanente. Her innovative approach has channeled over $200 million into underserved communities, fostering diversity and small business growth. A journalist and civic influencer, she was appointed by President Biden to the U.S. Advisory Trade Policy and Negotiation Committee in 2023. Shonda’s adventurous spirit inspired the 12 New Things® Challenge, encouraging personal growth through new experiences each month. An avid traveler, she continues to empower others through her leadership and community engagement. We caught up with Shonda to discuss her transformative leadership and the impact of her 12 New Things® Challenge has had on her life and the lives of others.

Can you tell us about the inspiration behind the creation of the 12 New Things® campaign? How did it all begin?

The concept for 12 New Things came out of an article I wrote encouraging business owners to do things differently and change themselves first if they want to see change in their business and in the world. By the time I finished the article, I realized this philosophy could apply to everyone. And to make it fun, light and obtainable, I came up with the idea of doing something new once every month in order to embrace change in fun and exciting ways. Hence the birth of 12 New Things®.

How did your 2019 birthday celebration lead to the development of the 12 New Things lifestyle? What was your initial goal with this challenge?

To put the concept of doing something new each month into action, I decided to start a social media campaign on my birthday. What better way to celebrate your birthday than doing something new and different by launching a campaign! The campaign was initially set up to challenge myself to embrace and welcome change in myself, in order to create change in my life. So, launching 12 New Things was a new thing in itself for me!

You’ve mentioned that the challenge has evolved into a lifestyle of renewal for you. Can you share some specific ways it has impacted your life personally and professionally?

Since living the 12 New Things lifestyle, not only did my business make it through a global pandemic, but it continued to grow over the past five years. On a personal level, I’ve noticed I hold more inner peace, self-accountability, and openness to new opportunities presented to me. Personally, I have embraced a gentler side of myself and found clarity of what I want in my life. It also pushed me to write my first book, based on the 12 New Things lifestyle, scheduled for release in fall 2025.

What challenges did you face when starting the challenge, and how did you overcome them?

Getting started is probably the hardest part. I noticed that at first, there was some hesitation or resistance because I wasn’t used to doing new things. The only way to overcome that is to jump right in. Once you’ve started and committed, each challenge gets easier and easier until trying new things feels like second nature.

In what ways do you believe stepping out of our comfort zones can lead to personal growth and self-improvement?

I have found that the path to great opportunities lies outside of our comfort zones. We’ll only tread that path if we can step outside of the zone. The walls of our comfort zone are often self-built by our fears. It is only once they are knocked down that the opportunities life has available to us are revealed. Oftentimes the “comfort zone” is code for “no change,” and “no change” is code for “no growth.” Moving out of the comfort zone is a great way to unlock change and growth in your world.

How do you choose the new activities or experiences you undertake each month? Are there any memorable ones that stand out for you?

Some of the new adventures were ones that required planning. For example, I had a lifelong dream to ski indoors in Dubai. Since I was using travel points to finance the trip, I had to plan it out ahead of time. But it still remains one of the most memorable “new things” I’ve done. Some activities or experiences may arise from an invitation from a friend, as was the case when I packed up the family and took them camping in Yosemite. Ultimately, it’s most rewarding to mix it up. For some months, let the spirit of adventure guide you spontaneously, and for others, let yourself choose a more planned out “bucket list” trip or idea. It’s about the adventure, however it may arise.

Can you share some success stories or testimonials from people who have embraced this lifestyle? How has it changed their lives?

Most have shared that the 12 New Things lifestyle reignited their excitement and passion for life. Many explained that it pushed them to stop procrastinating and go after goals they’d left unpursued. Others shared that it has allowed them to appreciate the little things in life as they enjoy their new experiences. One of my 12 New Things social media followers shared that at 80 years old, after living on a golf course for over 50 years, they decided to take golf lessons for the first time as one of their new things. I cannot describe how thrilled the person was to share this accomplishment in their #12NewThings post.

What are some of the most surprising or unexpected lessons you’ve learned from participating in the challenge?

I am always surprised when something I signed up to do for fun turns into a spiritual awakening and life lesson. For example, as a lover of swimming, I committed to completing an open ocean swim as one of my new things. During the swim, I had to overcome a panic attack and serious physical challenges to get to the other side. But once I made it, I was filled with the most amazing feeling of accomplishment. I learned firsthand that overcoming fear is the key to unlocking blessings and rewards in life.

How do you see the 12 New Things campaign evolving in the future? Are there any new directions or projects you’re excited about?

12 New Things is a brand and a movement that I look forward to expanding by growing its online presence, incorporating a book series, and broadening its media platform.

Finally, where can people go to join the 12 New Things journey and share their own experiences?

That is probably the easiest question asked. Sign up and share at 12newthings.com.