I love glitter. Sparkles make me smile. I dress up at work on Halloween. I went to Disneyland by myself once because my friend didn't want to go. Finding Nemo is one of my favorite movies of all time. I am also successful in my career. I pay my own bills. I take my vitamins and cook my own meals. But at heart, I am a child.
And I hope I never grow up.
Life is really hard and really serious. Between work pressure, paying endless bills, violence, relationships, the state of politics - I honestly don't know how we all don't lose our shit on a daily basis.
My way of staying sane in a chaotic world is to remember how awesome it was to be a kid. It's to never be too adult to have a good time. And it's certainly not to ever become so wrapped up in the idea of being grown up to have fun.
I think there's a really fine line between immature and someone who doesn't take themselves too seriously. And it takes work to juggle having fun and being able to flip the switch to business Barbie. But as long as you're handling your responsibilities and exceeding expectations - there is absolutely nothing wrong with having a good time.
I've absolutely been told to grow up on many occasions. That I'm too old to do this or like that. That to be taken seriously I need to be serious more often. I find that extremely ignorant. I don't trust anyone who doesn't know how to have a little fun and remember that for most of us - we aren't saving lives.
The most creative and innovative people I know recognize the art of play, laughter, and being a kid again. Without the ability to think outside of the box, relax the suit and tie, or laugh at yourself - you're really wasting happiness. I also think you're not maximizing your career potential if you're too serious. If you're not willing to look like an idiot - you're missing out on a lot of the best business opportunities.
Before you tell me to grow up - think about learning to loosen up and high five your inner kid. I promise you'll gain a lot fuller life if you do.