I used to think something was wrong with me. I’d sit there knowing a task mattered — knowing it mattered yesterday, last week, last month — and still couldn’t get myself to move on it. For years I asked myself the wrong question: why isn’t this getting done? The better question, it turns out, is what does my brain actually need to get started? That question changed everything, and it’s where SPARK came from.
Story. I’m a story person. I don’t care that a bird exists — I care about the three hours I spent finding it. When I’m stuck on a task, I ask what’s interesting about it, not what needs to get done. Curiosity creates momentum that obligation never will.
Purpose. Abstract tasks mean nothing until there’s a real person on the other side of them. Whether it’s an IT ticket or a podcast episode that isn’t coming together, I think about who actually needs this and why — and the task shifts even though the work doesn’t.
Adventure. Not everything can be an adventure (folding laundry is still folding laundry), but a lot of tasks can become small experiments instead of obligations. Possibility is motivating in a way duty never is.
Reality. This one needs care, because it’s easy to slide from reality into fear. Fear says you’ll end up broken and miss out on life. Reality says every choice is a small vote for the future you’re building. I’d rather feed the tiger that’s still hiking at 80 than the one that isn’t.
Kickstart. Some days none of the above works. On those days, the only question that matters is: what’s the smallest next possible step? Mow the front yard, not the whole lawn. Put on your shoes, not your whole workout. Starting is the hard part — once you start, momentum tends to take over.
You don’t need all five letters every time. Pick whichever one fits the moment, and let it do its job. Most of us aren’t waking up already disciplined and on fire — and that’s not a flaw, that’s just being human.
If you’ve been stuck on something, I’d love to know which letter of SPARK actually got you moving. Email me at [email protected] or leave a comment — and until next time, keep taking those small steps.
Jill’s Links
http://jillfromthenorthwoods.com
https://www.youtube.com/@startwithsmallsteps
https://www.buymeacoffee.com/startwithsmallsteps
https://twitter.com/schmern
Email the podcast at [email protected]
By choosing to watch this video or listen to this podcast, you acknowledge that you are doing so of your own free will. The content shared here reflects personal experiences and opinions and is intended for informational and inspirational purposes only. I am not a licensed therapist, life coach, or mental health professional. Any habits, strategies, or suggestions offered should not be considered a substitute for professional medical, psychological, or counseling advice. Results vary — small steps look different for everyone. You are solely responsible for any decisions or actions you take based on this content.
