Life Goals – When you’re a 16-year-old

Life Goals – When You’re 16 Years Old

Recently, I was looking for some old photographs, I found my diary from when I was 15-17 years old.  Somehow it has managed to survive moves to multiple countries, and the occasional fire and flood.

Journaling

I have journaled many times in my life; sometimes while traveling, sometimes for craft, sometimes to get over difficult situations, and sometimes, as in this case, to express my thoughts without judgement.

This little, 3 x 5 inch diary is a treasure trove of insight. Now, in my wizened adult eyes, I find its contents charming, innocent, silly, and somewhat true to who I am.

When thumbing through it, I found a folded up piece of paper, with writing on top:  ‘Before 30’ and a list.   Hmm?

Bucket List Goals from a 16-year-old to do before I reach 30

Indeed, this is my 16-year-old self’s Bucket List goals to do Before my 30^th.  Because basically when you’re 16 years old, 30 is the end of good run, right?

I had a very good laugh, and also felt a sweet pang of wistfulness at my teen goals. 

Before 30 ->

• Amature Comedy Tryout in SF (& win)
• Publish a short story or more
• Write a Novel
• Sing background for the O’Jays
• Write or produce a ^hit comedy movie
• Try out for a play & get a good part
• Publish some of my photographs
• Own a vintage sports car
• Own my own house anywhere
• Work for a large company
• Have a well t[r]ained White furry dog
• Work in a studio
• Have my picture in a magazine

Let’s see how I did!

I am well past 30 years old now. How did I do?

• My theatrical self was not motivated enough, perhaps the ‘winning’ was not goal enough.
• I have had my photographs published.
• I have owned a house – the ‘anywhere’ part was very generous, mostly the ‘where’ has always been too expensive.
• I have worked for several large companies, and that has always been a great learning experience.
• I’m not sure what I meant by ‘have my picture in a magazine’ but perhaps my portrait? Adult me is kind of glad that didn’t happen.
• Sadly, I have never owned a ‘Well trained White Furry dog’.  You were very specific, 16 year old me!
• The vintage sports car was a bit of a curse.
  Note to 16 year old self – make sure you can buy two, and use one for parts.

My photography and writing have always endured, and I am very glad for that.

I guess I need to phone the O’Jays.

Enjoy!