As a child, the world sparkled with novelty and wonder, every experience fresh and exhilarating. But as I’ve grown older, that sheen has dulled. The open-mindedness and flexibility of youth have slowly given way to a more closed and rigid outlook. While I’m not incapable of enjoyment or fun, I’ve noticed a tendency in myself to not actively seek out the brighter side of life, a habit formed over years that now seems daunting to overturn.

Embracing Atomic Habits

The saying goes, “Rome wasn’t built in a day,” and indeed, the path to change is built on small, incremental steps. However, two months into reshaping my habits, I feel precariously balanced, as if any small shift could send me spiraling. Take my fitness routine, for instance: after diligently following a rigorous workout schedule for nearly three months, the increasing difficulty of squats led me to skip a session for the first time. This lapse extended to three days, breaking from my usual routine of only one or two rest days. Although I eventually returned to my workout, it wasn’t the triumphant return I had hoped for.

A Spiritual Journey

Parallel to my physical efforts, I’m navigating a spiritual journey, aiming to heal and nurture my soul from habits that have caused harm over the years. The benefits of these changes aren’t immediately tangible—they represent a hope for a future betterment that sometimes feels too distant to grasp. At 38, there’s a voice telling me it might be too late, that perhaps I’ve passed the point where change can take root. Yet, I cling to the belief that transformation is possible at any stage of life.

Inspired by Innocence

As I sit next to my daughter, watching her delight in episodes of “Bluey,” I’m reminded of the pure, unfiltered perspective children have on the world. Her innocence and joy are not just refreshing; they are a powerful motivator. Without my children, I often wonder who I would be. They are the catalysts that drive me to pursue a better version of myself, to love more deeply, and strive for excellence not just in my eyes, but in theirs.

In this ongoing journey of personal evolution, it’s clear that the wonder of childhood doesn’t need to be a distant memory. It can be a vital part of how I view and engage with the world now, urging me to break free from self-imposed limits and rediscover the joy and flexibility of my younger years. As I continue to mold my habits and spiritual life, I am learning that the truest change begins within, inspired by the love and wonder that surrounds me every day.