Many of Us Are Kids at Heart

Rediscovering the Power of Childhood Aspirations

(and Why Today Is the Best Day to Start Something New)

What Did You Dream About as a Kid?

When you were little, what did you want to be when you grew up?

Maybe it was a firefighter, a teacher, or a famous athlete. Maybe it wasn’t a job at all, but a person—someone you looked up to and wanted to become. For me, it was all about playing. I dreamed of becoming a baseball or football star. Spoiler alert: that didn’t happen.

Later, I aimed for something more grounded—becoming an engineer. But if I’m honest, engineering never really carried the same magic. Still, that dream meant something: I wanted to solve problems, to be someone others turned to in difficult moments. That part hasn’t changed.

Now I Dream for My Family

As I’ve gotten older, my dreams haven’t faded. They’ve just shifted. These days, I dream for my family.

No, not that they become famous athletes—though if we’re on the topic, I have to brag on my son-in-law, Cameron. He’s got an athletic gift I admire. Whether it's football or pickleball (which I practice religiously), he plays with ease and instinct that I can only attribute to youth and natural talent. Oh, and he’s a math whiz too. Some people just have it all!  

Kylie the Creative Teacher

Then there's my daughter Kylie. She’s a music teacher who’s brought creativity and value to every school she’s worked in. At her last two elementary schools, she introduced fifth graders to full-on musicals. And if performing wasn’t your thing? She made sure students knew they could contribute behind the scenes on the tech crew.

Now she’s moving back to a middle school for the 2025–2026 year, where she already knows some of the team. As John Maxwell says, “Everything rises and falls on leadership.” I can’t wait to see how she thrives in a setting that’s ready for her.

(Yes, I’m a proud dad. Just writing this gets my “allergies” going.)

Design Runs Deep

My other daughter, Mandy, has an incredible eye—for people, for design, for opportunity. Trained in interior design, she taught herself graphic design and has become one of the most creative people I know. She’s a huge help to my wife Kris and me as we navigate our entrepreneurial ventures. Honestly, we’d be lost without her creativity and insight.

The Next Generation of Dreamers

Let’s talk granddaughters.

The younger one is all about the ballerina life. Tulle skirts, twirls, and a flair for the dramatic. It’s beautiful to watch.

The older one? She’s a budding aviator. She’s been fascinated by Amelia Earhart for a couple of years now. Yes, that Amelia Earhart. At six years old, she not only knows the name—she wants to be like her. She even dressed up as Amelia for Halloween and owns an Amelia T-shirt (which she’s almost grown out of).

Even more impressive, she recently told her mom:

“I think I really should fly on a plane soon... to confirm this interest.”

What a statement. At six! She's already understanding what so many adults forget: You have to try things before you know if they’re right for you.

The Best Time to Start? Now.

You’ve probably heard this one:

“When is the best time to plant a tree?” Twenty years ago. “When’s the next best time?” Today.

The same goes for learning something new or chasing a dream. The best time might’ve been years ago. But the next best time is now.

I learned to swim as a kid—not because I wanted to, but because my mom didn’t know how and didn’t want her kids to miss out. That simple decision opened up doors I never expected. If I hadn’t learned to swim, would I have ever learned to sail?

Probably not.  (Thanks Mom!)

So What’s Your Dream?

What’s that thing you’ve always wanted to try? That skill you’ve put off learning? That adventure you’ve shelved for “someday”?

When’s the best time to start?

Twenty years ago. The next best time? Right now.

So go on. Give it a try. And let me know how it goes.

Have a dream you’re finally chasing? Drop it in the comments or share your story. You never know who you might inspire.