One of the best things about being a child is thinking that your life is going to be perfect. You daydream in class and fantasize about this made-up fairy tale. People always ask you, "What do you want to be when you grow up?" And you always have an interesting answer because you're young and you've got your whole life ahead of you. Those were the days.
It's a beautiful thing to hear children talk about their hopes and dreams. It gives you insight into their perspective on life. And for some of us who are still trying to figure out what we want to be when we grow up, it may even give us some new ideas.
When I was growing up, there was always something that I wanted to be. When some asked, I was ready. These are the occupations that I can remember wanting before turning ten years old. Since I'm able to remember them, they must have been the things I wanted to be the most!
The Little Mermaid
At four years old, I was set on being The Little Mermaid. I loved the movies and all of the songs. I had a Little Mermaid t-shirt that I wore all of the time. I thought she was the coolest Disney Princess.
Fly Girl
Yes, I watched In Living Color when I was a kid. I probably shouldn't have but a lot of jokes didn't register. The only thing I remember was wanting to be like the girls who danced on the show. I just knew that I would be on the set when I grew up in my dope 90's outfit dancing my little heart out.
Ice Skater
I was in awe of ice skaters' elegance and grace on the ice. And the pretty, shiny, glittery outfits, I wanted them all. It looked so much fun to me. I thought of it as the closest thing to being able to fly.
Judge
I used to watch Judge Judy every day after school. I admired her because she was straightforward and put her foot down.
By the end of my fourth-grade year, I was set on one career. Writing. I fell in love with writing when I was nine years old. All of my previous career goals vanished once I realized how much I love to write. Even though I decided to go into marketing while I was in college, I will always be a writer.
When I think about what I thought I wanted to be as a child, I can't help but laugh at myself. I can't swim, I love to dance but I’m not the best at it, I don't like ice skating, and it's been years since I've watched court shows.
What did you want to be?