As children, our lives brim with wonder and boundless imagination. We gravitate naturally toward activities that light us up—writing, drawing, crafting, exploring nature—without any concern for practicality. These passions come effortlessly, as if we’re following an innate compass. But as adulthood sets in, the world teaches us to prioritize responsibility over joy, practicality over dreams, and we often lose sight of what once felt so natural.
Could it be that those childhood passions were meant to lead us toward something greater? Could they hold the key to your Soul’s purpose?
The Alchemist’s Wisdom: Following Your Personal Legend
I was reminded of this recently while reading Paulo Coelho’s The Alchemist. The book speaks of a “Personal Legend,” the unique calling each of us is meant to fulfill in this lifetime. As children, we often know what it is. But as we grow up, societal expectations, fear of failure, and “real-world” pressures pull us away from that inner knowing.
This theme resonates deeply with my own story. As a child, I loved writing. It was how I expressed myself, how I connected with the world. But like many of us, I drifted away from that passion, setting it aside for years as life got in the way. It wasn’t until I began rediscovering my love for words that I realized it was my way back to my Soul.
Alice’s Story: From Childhood Magic to a Thriving Purpose
Alice, whose story I recently shared on my blog, is another beautiful example. As a child, she spent hours crafting potions with wildflowers, immersed in the textures and scents of nature. But as she grew older, her connection to that world faded. Life led her down a more conventional path, one that left her deeply unfulfilled. It wasn’t until she reconnected with her love for plants—through dreams, travel, and serendipitous encounters—that she found her purpose.
Today, Alice runs a thriving natural cosmetics business, creating healing products made of plants, infused with the same joy she felt as a child. Her journey is a testament to the power of honoring what lit you up as a child—it may just be the clue to what you’re meant to do.
Famous Examples: Childhood Passions That Shaped Lives
Stories of reconnecting with childhood passions aren’t limited to Alice. Many remarkable individuals discovered that their childhood joys were guiding lights toward their greater purpose:
• Serena Williams picked up a tennis racket at the age of three. What began as play turned into a lifelong passion, making her one of the greatest athletes of all time.
• Steve Jobs was fascinated by electronics and design as a teenager, tinkering with gadgets in his family garage—a curiosity that revolutionized the tech world.
• Maya Angelou, the celebrated poet, began writing as a child, planting the seeds for the powerful voice that would inspire millions.
These stories remind us that childhood passions are more than fleeting interests. They’re windows into our authentic selves, revealing the unique gifts we’re meant to share with the world.
Why Do We Drift Away?
As children, our passions are pure and untainted. But as we grow, the world tells us to be practical, responsible, and realistic. Messages like “You can’t make a living doing that” or “That’s just a hobby” slowly chip away at our connection to what lights us up. Over time, we lose sight of our inner child—the part of us that instinctively knows what brings us joy.
The good news? It’s never too late to reconnect. Your Soul has been waiting patiently for you to remember.
How to Reconnect: A Journaling Exercise
Journaling can be a powerful tool for uncovering your childhood passions and aligning with your Soul’s purpose. Take some time to reflect on these prompts:
1. What did you love to do as a child?
Think back to when you were six, eight, or ten. What activities made you lose track of time?
2. What did people praise you for as a child?
Were you the artist, the storyteller, or the problem-solver?
3. What did you dream of becoming when you grew up?
Reflect on those early visions.
4. Are there any childhood passions you’ve already reconnected with?
How did it feel to return to something you once loved?
5. What’s stopping you from exploring these passions now?
Identify barriers—practical or emotional—and brainstorm ways to overcome them.
6. If fear or judgment weren’t factors, what would you do?
Write freely, without limits.
A Gentle Reminder
Rediscovering your childhood passions doesn’t mean you have to quit your job or drastically change your life overnight. Start small. Dedicate an hour a week to painting, writing, dancing, or gardening. Explore a workshop or volunteer in a field that excites you. The important thing is to create space for what lights you up—and trust that your Soul knows the way.
My Sons: The Spark of Passion in Childhood
Watching my sons reminds me of the magic of childhood passions. My eight-year-old, Louis, loves animals and nature, handling creatures with a fearlessness and tenderness that feels like second nature. He dreams of being a biologist or a wildlife YouTuber. My six-year-old adores anything creative—painting, pottery, jewelry-making—and declares he’ll be an artist.
Their pure connection to what excites them inspires me to keep exploring my own passions and to guide them in nurturing theirs.
The Path Back to Your Soul
Whether it’s crafting potions like Alice, writing like me, or something entirely unique to you, those childhood passions are there for a reason. They may hold the key to your authentic, Soul-led life.
And remember: You don’t have to turn every passion into a career. Sometimes, simply honoring what brings you joy raises your vibration, aligning you with opportunities and experiences that match your truest self.
Your childhood passions may be waiting to guide you back to a life of authenticity and fulfillment. Are you ready to listen?
“Your heart knows the way. Run in that direction.” – Rumi
