HELLO everyone, hope you’ve all had a great fortnight since my last column.

I certainly enjoyed Shrove Tuesday, I didn’t make pancakes as I’m more a fan of consuming them.

None of the sugar and lemon nonsense, I’m part of the strawberries and ‘Nutella’ club. I’m really supposed to be giving up something in the run up to Easter, but I’m absolutely hopeless at that.

I can’t function without chocolate – just doesn’t work for me.

So, instead I’ll probably ‘do’ something. All the while counting down to my 18th birthday...result!

Well this week I want talk about something directly related to me and perhaps reduce many people’s fears and anxieties.

I’ve now been out of school over two months (result!) and to be quite honest I’ll never ever regret it. Many people panic about leaving school – it’s completely understandable. I too once was in the position where I was filled with the worry of not constantly being spoon fed everything, having to deal with my addiction to canteen caramel shortcake and not seeing the people I’ve been with for nearly six years every day. But to be honest, I’ve not looked back.

Occasionally I fancy school fish and chips or I miss hearing all the gossip. However, I’m always updated – I never get away that easy!

The point I’m trying to make is that if you get an opportunity but you’re too scared to take it don’t let your current situation stop you.

At the time it might seem like the best thing for you to do is to stay where you’re used to, it’s a comfort blanket and a bit of security because you know what to expect. But, how will you ever get to experience anything else? If you truly believe you’re going to be happier elsewhere then don’t hesitate. I’m not just talking about education, I mean anywhere.

Life is too short to be unhappy. It’s always best to go with your gut, if you have a good feeling about something then nine times out of ten you usually find that you’ve done the correct thing. It’s a good theory to have – never let anything that could be brilliant go because it might be difficult.

I’ve found that it’s very easy to adapt, the skills you already have gained and experiences you’ve had all add to your successes in any new adventure.
Once you’re in the right mindset you can do anything.

Even survive without caramel shortcake.