And just like that, week one is done!

Congratulations! You made it through Stage 1, the first week using your new SparkCoach. As a quick exercise, take a few moments to close your eyes. Now think about how you did over the past week. Did you learn anything new? Did you find success when followed through on your plans? You started reaching small goals one at a time this week and now you’re on your way!

Some people don’t realize the importance of these initial steps, but these seven days of lessons could be the start of a life transformation if you continue along this path.

Long ago when we were putting together the SparkPeople program, we had clients come into our office for coaching sessions. In the first week, we had a woman eat at least one veggie or fruit and exercise for at least 10 minutes three to five times that week. Prior to SparkPeople, she had tried many "diets" and had lost all hope that she would ever succeed in reaching her goals.

When she arrived back for her coaching session to start week two, we asked if she had reached her small goals. She responded radiantly, "Yes! What’s next!?"

That’s what Stage 1 is all about—drawing out that spark of hope that will eventually turn into a mighty flame of goodness. What’s next for you?

One of my favorite quotes is by Dante: "From a tiny spark may burst a mighty flame."

We hope you will continue through the remaining three stages to grow your spark. As a reminder, here is what's to come:

• Stage 2: Healthy Diet & Fitness Habits
• Stage 3: Healthy Lifestyle Change
• Stage 4: Spread the Spark

These four weeks in combination will help you convert to a permanent healthy lifestyle change.

In Stage 2, we will act as your coach, guiding you through some of the most important elements of nutrition and fitness. To celebrate the end of Stage 1, though, how about if we do something fun today?

Losing weight, getting fit and reaching other goals should not be a chore. Even adults don’t like chores, right? Instead, let’s make this a fun adventure. Fun is an important part of our program.  As you follow the program, you’ll find that you have more time and energy for fun activities. This will add many benefits to your life, but will also serve as a motivator to continue moving forward. I love hearing SparkPeople members say, "I’ve never had this much fun losing weight and getting healthy!"

To put an emphasis on this, choose something fun you would like to do today as a reward. It can be incredibly simple for a few minutes or a fun activity that takes hours. It could be something related to health and fitness like a hike outdoors, or something totally different, like playing a game or spending time on a hobby.

What will you do today to celebrate and set the tone that this will be a fun adventure?