As a young girl growing up, I decided I wanted to be an astronaut. Either that or a Zamboni driver. Either one would do. Girls didn’t do that in the 1960s, but I was a weird kid, and very close to my dad, who never said I couldn’t because I was a girl.
But then life took over, and I’m not very good at planning for the future. I’ve always just sort of flown by the seat of my pants, and have been very lucky. My main source of income has always come from what I call in-the-meantime jobs. You know, those jobs you take until your true calling comes along.
It doesn’t bother me any. I don’t wish, or even wonder what would have happened if I had put all my energy into being an astronaut or Zamboni driver. My life is amazing, it unfolded just as it should have, all my needs are met, and then some. I am incredibly blessed, thanks, in part, to those in-the-meantime-jobs.
As a child, anything is possible (beginner’s mind), so I think that our dreams and hopes and aspirations as a child say a lot about our authentic self. You know the one, before society said no. Before the responsibilities and reality of adulting came along. Something about our dreams connects us to our true self and if you look closely, you might see your own characteristics and personality traits that are related to your childhood dreams.
For example, my dream of being an astronaut might reflect my sense of adventure (WOTY!), my love of science, my curiosity and even my rather annoying tendency towards being analytical, like I’m doing now.
Spend some time with your childhood dreams. They might just give you a hint at what your true passions are, and perhaps connect you with your purpose. You can certainly bring part of them into your everyday life, without having to train with NASA. At the age of 66.
Expand beyond what you wanted to be when you grew up. What excited you about your dreams? Did you want to explore new frontiers, or help others, or be famous? You have everything you need to reignite that passion, that sense of joy and wonder.
I suggest adopting that beginner’s mind attitude, where anything is possible,, while keeping it realistic. I know I’m not going pilot a spacecraft to the moon. Ever.
Then look to friends to help you on your journey. Find others that share your interests. So for example, I wouldn’t necessarily look for those that are interested in space travel. I would, however, look for others that are interested in exploration and adventure, maybe just travel in general. That community can be the fuel that reignites that passion.
You can also find a hobby or interest that fulfills your childhood dreams. Maybe you’re a weather junkie like me, or art is your thing, or writing. Maybe you wanted to be a doctor, and now you read everything there is on advances in medicine.
Don’t rule out volunteering as a way to connect. Would be teachers can volunteer to mentor, or teach English as a second language. Wannabe actors can join their community performing arts center as an usher or stage actor.
The point here is that it’s never too late to fill in the “when I grow up, I want to be …” blank. Now excuse me while I check my weather station to determine if it’s going to rain.
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