Grab a popsicle and enjoy life!

I recently saw on Tik Tok a video that showed all the things we did as kids. It was set to Selena’s song Dreaming of You, and included the last time we played on scooters in PE, watched a movie during class on the projector, and had a sleepover with your cousins. It was pretty emotional because all I could think about is how it just ended. Growing up really sucks lol.

This also has me thinking as kids how we would dive “headfirst” into activities and adventures without abandon. How we weren’t afraid of getting hurt and would always choose a dare before truth. It was fun to play hide and seek in the dark, play in the woods or ride our bikes past the “spooky house”. We would dance and sing in public like no one is watching. It was so freeing being a kid.

Then reality becomes present over time, and we lose much of our innocence as we get older, becoming more cautious and self-conscience. The things that once freed us as kids may now be a source of anxiety and fear. Societal expectations and norms in general apply a lot of pressure on us, basically guiding how we should think, act and believe. We’ve gone from self-discovery as kids to other people orchestrating our journey. As a Gen X’er, I already had pressure while growing up, but to get it now from strangers is disconcerting.

And who has time to live without abandon when they’re raising kids in these days? Outside of managing work and home, we’re also overseeing our kids’ expectations of themselves. Social Media constantly push unrealistic expectations and is one the biggest reasons why most kids and young adults become overcome with anxiety and pressure. I consistently promote frank conversations with my daughters to keep a pulse on their wellbeing. I’m fortunate they don’t mind sharing because growing up I used to mostly process my emotions and doubts by myself- still do for the most part. The stress from making sure your kids grow into responsible, healthy and kind adults is enough to bring you over the edge at times.

I’ve made it a goal to always feel young at heart to retain some of my innocence. I’m cautious by nature but allow myself liberties to just live. Every choice in life doesn’t have to be responsible and you don’t have to worry about repercussions later. I also often surround myself with younger adults just to stay in the know, because old shit is just boring lol. But it also helps me stay connected and relate to my own daughters. And being around youngsters get your endorphins going and just reminds you of the freedom and innocence we all had a long time ago.

Now go grab a popsicle and enjoy life 😊