Feb 43 min read

Interview with My Younger Self: Reigniting Ambition and Embracing Joy

Updated: Aug 14

Introduction

As we navigate the complexities of adulthood, it's all too easy to forget the simple yet profound ambitions we had as children. In our younger years, we possessed an unwavering belief in our abilities and an insatiable desire to explore the world. In this captivating interview with my younger self, I reflected on the vibrant spirit and unyielding drive that propelled me forward. Join me on this journey of self-discovery as we explore the lessons learned from my childhood endeavors and uncover the keys to reigniting our ambitious selves.

The Power of Pretend

From running my own grocery store to offering massages at an unbeatable price, the adults in my life indulged my every vision. My mom patiently played the role of a customer, while I curated the entire shopping experience, after having completed an actual trip to the grocery store. My dad, embracing the entrepreneur within me, encouraged me to double my prices as a budding massage therapist. These experiences, though make-believe, nurtured my ambition and allowed me to explore limitless possibilities.

Family Support

Not only did my immediate family humor my comprehensive endeavors, but my grandparents also played a pivotal role in nurturing my dreams. During visits to my grandparents' house, I immersed myself in their world of paperwork and business. My grandpa shared his office supplies, and my grandma delighted in becoming a cast of characters for me to interact with. Together, we built an entire "town" of make-believe. Their unwavering support fostered an environment where my imagination could flourish without limits.

Reflection and Revival

In contemplating the contrast between my childhood ambition and my present self, I embarked upon an interview with my younger self to glean insights and wisdom. The aim was to rediscover the essence of who I once was and how those characteristics could be reignited in the present.

Question 1: How were you able to achieve so much?

My younger self revealed that the key to achievement was not merely in the outcomes but in the sheer enjoyment of the process. Even though the roles I assumed were make-believe, I approached them with dedication and seriousness, all the while finding immeasurable joy in the adventure.

Question 2: What did you believe about yourself?

During my childhood, a profound belief resided within me – the belief that I was capable of anything. Fearless and unafraid to explore new avenues, I knew that my worth was not determined by success or failure, but by the love that surrounded me every step of the way.

Reigniting the Flame

My journey of self-discovery and reflection inspires me to pose two crucial questions to you, my reader:

How would you show up differently in your life if you were to reignite your 7-year-old self's ambition?
Who were you before the world told you who you should be?

Embracing the Lessons

Through this introspective process, I discovered that true fulfillment and accomplishment lie in pursuing what we love and acknowledging that we are worthy of love and support, regardless of the outcome. It is a reminder to find joy in our pursuits and to be kind to ourselves during the inevitable challenging times.

Embrace Your Inner Child

As we conclude this introspective journey, remember that your 7-year-old self is still cheering you on. Embrace that vivacious spirit and unyielding ambition. You are unstoppable. Allow yourself to be guided by joy and make yourself proud, just as you would have made your child-self proud.

Conclusion

Interviewing my younger self opened my eyes to the boundless potential that resides within each of us. The lessons I learned from my childhood understanding remind me to embrace joy, undertake challenges with dedication, and strive to love myself through all the hardships. So, let us all harness the uninhibited ambition and enthusiasm of our 7-year-old selves, for they hold the keys to a life filled with purpose, achievement, and unending joy.