I Wish I Could Be a Child Again

As I sit and reflect on the complexities of adult life, I can’t help but wish I could be a child again. There’s something about the simplicity, innocence, and wonder of childhood that I long to experience once more. Life was less about responsibilities and more about exploring the world with curious eyes. In this blog, I want to share my journey of rediscovering the joys of my childhood, a time when life was about living in the moment rather than chasing future ambitions.

The Weight of Responsibility

“Adulthood is overrated,” they say, and in many ways, it’s true. The responsibilities pile up — work deadlines, bills, family obligations, societal expectations. These things slowly weigh you down, clouding the mind with constant stress and anxiety. I miss the days when my biggest concern was finishing homework in time to play outside with friends. No financial burdens, no career decisions — just the freedom to be.

“I think back to those moments when my biggest responsibility was deciding which toy to play with or what game to make up next.”

There’s a beauty in the carefree nature of childhood that adulthood simply can’t replicate. I think we all carry that secret wish to escape, even just for a little while.

Rediscovering Joy in Little Things

As a child, I found joy in the simplest things — a butterfly flitting by, the sound of rain on the roof, or the magic of watching the stars. When I grew up, life became more about schedules and goals, and less about wonder. But recently, I’ve made a conscious effort to pause and embrace those little moments again. I walk in the park without headphones, take in the world, and allow myself to be fascinated by nature’s beauty.

“We lose the magic of wonder as we grow older, but if we allow ourselves to slow down and notice the world, we can reclaim it.”

This has been an eye-opener for me, helping me find moments of peace amidst the chaos of adulthood. Rediscovering joy in simple moments is one way to hold on to that childlike spirit.

The Importance of Play

When was the last time you did something just for fun? Not for productivity, not for competition, but just for pure enjoyment? Children naturally understand the value of play. It’s not just entertainment — it’s how they learn, relax, and express themselves. Somewhere along the way, we lose this ability as adults.

I’ve made it a point to bring “play” back into my life. Whether it’s picking up an old hobby like painting or spending time with kids who remind me of how fun life can be, this has brought back a sense of lightness and joy that was missing. Playing isn’t just for children — it’s essential for adults too.

“We all need play in our lives to break free from the monotony of responsibility. It’s how we rejuvenate our minds and souls.”

Letting Go of Perfection

As adults, we often strive for perfection, whether it’s in our careers, our relationships, or even our personal goals. But children don’t operate with this mindset. They make mistakes, they learn, and they move on. They don’t judge themselves as harshly as we do. I’ve started letting go of this need for perfection and allowing myself the space to make mistakes.

By embracing imperfection, I’ve become more compassionate toward myself. I’ve learned that growth doesn’t come from being perfect — it comes from being open to experiences, just like a child learning something new every day.

“Children don’t fear failure the way we do. They fall and get right back up. As adults, we need to relearn this lesson.”

Conclusion: Carrying the Childlike Spirit Forward

While I can’t physically go back to being a child, I can carry the lessons from my childhood into my adult life. I can choose to live more freely, to find joy in simple moments, and to play without fear of judgment. These are the things that make life richer and more fulfilling. In essence, while adulthood comes with its own set of challenges, it’s still possible to embrace that inner child and live with a sense of wonder, joy, and simplicity.

“The secret to happiness isn’t found in chasing success, but in rediscovering the joy of living like a child.”

References:

Brown, Brene. The Gifts of Imperfection. Hazelden Publishing, 2010.

Gopnik, Alison. The Philosophical Baby: What Children’s Minds Tell Us About Truth, Love, and the Meaning of Life. Farrar, Straus and Giroux, 2009.