The first thing that you want to do when you’re a kid is mature and become an adult. You believe that when one is older, they automatically assume newfound independence and that no one can stop you from doing what you want. The irony is that this constructed idea is false and that the first thing that adults want to do is become a kid again. Yet because of society’s standards, we frequently do not revisit our childish ways. We are in a culture of canceling or shaming one if they act immaturely or do not immediately adapt to the “norm.” It’s always been like this. No matter what age you are, there is always a fear of fitting in and living up to expectations. However, more people are learning that this is complete bullshit. There is no reason why others should dictate the way that you live. Honestly, creating room for yourself to be a kid again is healthy. It allows for the daily stressors to melt away and for you to rediscover the building blocks of your personality.
For starters, we often forget the importance of the small things that used to make us happy. We might remember that one big birthday or when we got to go to Disneyland. But, we never think of that delicious ice cream flavor that we might have discovered by accident. Or that silly little game that you made up with your friends and now have forgotten. What’s great about being a kid is that the world doesn’t seem as stressful or difficult. Although with that said, I want to acknowledge that every problem and feeling is valid. Adults do not often recognize that their children’s struggles are just as real as theirs are. Everybody, at one point, has something on their plate. That’s why it is necessary to enjoy the simplicity of life and truly take advantage of it. An effective way to remember these things is to brainstorm. It can be quite difficult to look back a decade ago and recognize your favorite song at that time. That’s why I strongly suggest finding items that will knowingly trigger these memories for you. For me, I would listen to music, eat food, or look back at old journals to remind myself of me at age 10. However, the process varies from person to person. Another suggestion is to try something that you’ve always wanted to do but never got the chance to. It might feel like it’s too late or that you’re too old, but that’s not true. We like to convince ourselves that we can’t do things because it’s much easier than being afraid. That’s why becoming a kid again is so daunting. Children prioritize their fears differently than adults do and are commonly open to being bold. So, regress for a minute and don’t think about the consequences of doing something before it has happened. Let yourself be free!
Childish actions breed creativity and joy. There are fewer rules, and it is more acceptable to approach life with curiosity and wonder. Therefore, try rediscovering your happiness through these small items. I bet you’ll like it.