The ability to tell a story in writing about adversity greatly increases the effectiveness of the essay. Begin the process much like a fiction writer would, by introducing real-life characters, places and conflict. Develop the story through the body of the essay by paying attention to details and giving specifics. A person overcoming medical odds to become an Olympian or someone born into poverty who becomes a wealthy businessperson can be powerful stories that would pique a reader's interest.
Essays about adversity often contain a lot of emotion because of what the writer experienced. Writing about feelings, tears and arguments allow the writer to connect with the audience on a personal level and describe how those emotions (both good and bad) played into the conflict and conflict resolution.
An essay about adversity or challenge can be a powerful way to teach a lesson. Writers can focus on the positive impact the situation had on their lives or how what happened to them impacted others. It can also teach people what not to do if something similar happens to them, or give them ideas about what to do correctly.
Writing an essay in less than 1,000 words gives the writer structure and a template to work with and keeps them within certain guidelines. An essay that is too long or takes too long to get to the point will cause the reader to lose interest quickly.