It’s that time of year again when the ubiquitous advertising plays on our insecurities. How about a fresh new start in the new year? Change yourself! Lose weight! Be happy! Get fit!
…essentially? Stop being who you are now. Change yourself entirely. People will only like you if you do this. Let alone the whole New Year’s Resolutions stuff.

However, IT’S ALL A LOAD OF GARBAGE! And honestly, I cannot emphasise that enough.

Self-development always starts with a push – however – it has to come because you want it, not because anyone else does, let alone because a celebrity said it was a good idea! If you want proof of this, go to the gym in January. Then go back in February. Then March… watch how many people disappear!

Just remember people like you the way you are now. Lots of them too! You’re an awesome person. And no matter what anyone else says, we like you the way you are. Promise.

If you do want to start to make changes for you, then make sure that you’re not setting yourself up for failure. You have to make sure that whatever your goal is, that it’s within your power, and achievable. If it’s something that’s not within your power – then it’s maybe not such a great goal for you – because you can not achieve it through something that becomes entirely out of your capacity.

If you’re looking to be a bit more adventurous this year, then why not try something like volunteering with a charity? Spark is always looking for mods, or, if that’s not for you, there’s always loads of different charities who would love to have you come on board and give them a hand! Check out https://do-it.org/ who can help you find something great for you!

Always remember though: If part way through the year, you think the goal isn’t right for you anymore, you can stop. We’re complex creatures, and our priorities change massively – we can’t ever predict the future.

For now, I just wanted to say a massive thank you for being part of Spark. 2017 was a fantastic start – 2018 is really going to kick some ass, we’re determined!

Peace, love and Sparks.

Categories: Coping Strategies