I've been telling myself stories for as long as I can remember - probably since I was around three years old. When I was supposed to be napping, I'd sit there, playing with my fingers. When my parents asked what I was doing, I'd simply say, "I'm playing." But the truth? I was imagining wild adventures, creating stories that took me far beyond the four walls of my room.
This love for storytelling stayed with me well into my young adult life. I'd come up with fanciful tales, but here's the thing - there wasn't anyone or anything that really inspired me. Growing up in South Africa, reading Afrikaans books, I never found stories that I truely resonated with. It wasn't until my family took a sabbatical in the US and my English improved that I stumbled upon the works of Desmond Bagley. His adventures hooked me in like nothing else had. I devoured every single book of his that I could find at my library, and I was transported into world where I could lose myself completely.
But it didn't stop with books. I fell in love with movies, music, and more books. I could spend hours lost in these mediums - though I wasn't just a spectator. I played piano, took acting classes, and of course, I kept writing stories. My love for art grew and blossomed with every new passion I picked up.
Then came adulthood, and with it, the reality of "growing up." I followed my talents in math and science and pursued biomedical engineering. Eventually, I even got my PhD in Physiology - essentially a degree that says I know how the human body works, though I can't operate or prescribe medicine. I can, however, teach future doctors - cool, right? 😄
But something was missing. As I entered the workforce, I found myself bored and unfulfilled. Despite achieving what I thought would be a dream career, I was restless. I embarked on some serious soul searching, took personality tests, and worked with a career coach. And guess what I discovered? My personality is CREATIVE! The top three careers that suited me best were author, acting, and teaching! I was surprised - well, kind of - but it all made sense. Those childhood loves were still there, waiting for me to pay attention.
Fast forward a few years, and here I am, fully embracing what I love. I've launched my YouTube channel, I'm teaching and acting, and most importantly, I'm writing. I've finally found my path, and honestly, most days it doesn't even feel like work - it's what I was meant to do all along.
So, what dreams do you have that you may be afraid to try? Trust me when I say it's never too late. The only thing you need is to figure out your Most Important Next Step toward realizing that dream and then find the courage to take it. Whether it's learning more about it or finding a mentor to guide you, just take the step.
After all, life's too short not to do what you love.
Great insights. Thank you for the share!