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Share A Story NowDreams Do Come True
As a child, my parents, by their example, instilled in me a love for reading. I dreamed of being a writer but the pursuit of dreams was never discussed or encouraged - leaving me to write in secret in my room.
Life progressed, however, and an interest in interior design surfaced in my teens. However, at my parents' insistence, I enrolled in secretarial school and worked in that area contentedly, for twenty years.
Married with two children at thirty-eight, I grew restless. I was unhappy with my job and felt exhausted at the end of the day. I wanted to do something creative with my life. “Life begins at forty” became my mantra.
A growing addiction to decorating shows on television reawakened my teenage interest. As I devoured every word and every scene, I vowed that I would let nothing deter me from becoming an interior designer.
With my fortieth birthday ten months away, I signed up for a two-year interior-decorating course. I crammed two years of work into nine months to ensure that I received my diploma for my fortieth birthday. I met my self-imposed deadline with twelve days to spare and I was ecstatic.
The next step was to get some hands-on experience at a design firm. A visit to a newly opened interiors showroom ushered me into a dream job that opened more opportunities for me than I could have ever imagined. I donned the hat of a decorating consultant at the showroom and I was on my way to creating the career I envisioned.
Opportunity knocked at my door in 1997. I peeked and saw the possibility of writing a decorating column for a woman's magazine. The editor liked the idea and the monthly column debuted in February 1998.
Writing did not only open doors for decorating projects, it also provided me with the opportunity to teach interior decorating classes. A three-year teaching experience added a new dimension to my career while the confidence and reputation I gained were invaluable.
In the midst of the enjoying my new career and the diversity of experiences, I realized that I was involved in doing something I dreamed of as a child. I was writing. To master the finer skills, I signed up for a freelance writing course. Encouraging feedback from tutors gave me the confidence to submit my work for publication on the internet.
An online newsletter published the story of my mission to redefine myself and pursue my dream. The response from readers was unexpected and overwhelming. From around the world, people emailed to say that they identified with my experience. Some even asked for advice. They inspired me to write self-care articles and motivational pieces, especially for women. Soon, this hobby had developed into a passion that consumed me--and my writing.
Nevertheless, working a fulltime job and struggling to write at night while fighting sleep and fatigue did not whittle away at my determination to be a fulltime freelance writer. I hung on because I had another dream – to retire at fifty, even though my fifty-first birthday was staring me in the face.
Prompted by my husband and grown, working children, I handed in my resignation on the 8th of August 2006. The next day, knowing that I will have the time to do the kind of research and writing I enjoy, I sent my writing resume and copies of my published clips to the three local newspapers in my country. I contacted every editor I had worked with before to let them know that I would be available for assignments.
One week before I left, the oldest and largest newspaper in my country commissioned me to write a weekly motivational/inspirational column for their Sunday pullout magazine for women. On the 30th August 2006, eighteen days before I turned fifty-one, I left my office for the last time.
I now write two regular columns while researching and writing feature articles on a variety of other topics, mostly for publication in online magazines. Three books are works in progress and my website is under construction.
My family tells me that I look younger and seem more energetic. I am living my childhood dream, doing what I love. I am a fulltime freelance writer with yet another dream – to be a motivational speaker.
On my journey, I have learned that it is never too late to pursue, and live your dream.
Story was submitted anonymously
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Your Comments
You may not know how far this story has gone to help. But you will feel the impact in the world. Thank you for sharing.
Posted over 2 years ago by Ola Ola from Nigeria
I'm forty and restless also! I just lost my father to liver cancer on July 2 and my third child, a baby girl, is days away! Although I have a comfortable career as an environmental consultant, my true passions have never seemed to stay on top with life's demands. Thank you for reminding me they are never far away! I will finish my student pilot license from 10 years ago and finally start to combine my photography and writing to share the world from my eyes and heart with everyone. It is that natural beauty that constantly awakens my soul! Thanks again!
Posted over 2 years ago by Dale N. from Forty Fort, PA
Thank you for sharing your story. Sometimes it's just nice to know that I'm not the only one who feels lost and without a purpose. I know I have something great to offer the world. I just can't seem to get a hold of what that is and less on how to share it. Your story inspires me, however, to take a deep look at my life and do some soul-searching to figure it out. Thank you.
Posted almost 3 years ago by Maria L. from Texas
I have not been very successful in my life because the education I had in China. Many people feel the same way and they just give up. But I don't want to. I sent this article to my sister who is 36 years old and is studying English at home. She didn't go to college. I want us both and many others pursue our dreams no matter how old we are.
Posted almost 3 years ago by Olivia Lee from China, Xi
Right now I am stuck in what seems to be a dead end job. I get home completely drained and wiped out barely able to get dinner on the table and help my daughter with her homework. Weekends are busy catching up with chores around the house. I do dream though and with a week's shut down I am taking more time to just breathe. This story inspires me to reach for my dreams. I dream of writing and sharing my stories. One day - some day I WILL break into print.
Posted almost 3 years ago by Maggie E. from America
Laid off from my job, I decided to go back to school. At the same time, my daughter and her three children moved in with me until they could find a place to live closer to her husband's job. I took a full 12 hours and came home to help her with the children because she had health problems. Studying was a hassle, and I was so exhausted that I cried and prayed for strength. My teachers were so encouraging that I felt that I couldn't let them down and the grandchildren were so sweet that I could never say no to their needs. By grace, I am almost through the first semester and I may finish the course...I would like to be a psychologist if I can do it - I will be seventy-one when I graduate. Your story is an encouragement to fulfill my dream.
Posted about 3 years ago by Margaret D. from Red Bay, AL, USA
Inspiring words. They give me motivation to strive for the best in myself, and to look for the best in others.
Posted over 3 years ago by Mark D. from Victoria, BC, Canada
That is so great! I'm so proud of you too just quit your job and start ALL OVER! That must be depressing. I'm sorry.
Posted over 3 years ago by Bobby from
Thank you. Right now I feel lost, I am at that age where I know I have more to offer, I know I want to be a motivational speaker but do not know where to start. I feel like I am in a jar, I can see what is happening but do not know how to get out! I will get out.
Posted over 3 years ago by Tyrell, Z from London
I too have lived a similar story. I graduated college at 40 to pursue my dream of being a teacher but now at 45 am feeling there is something more I should do. I would love to become a children's book author. I found this article through a TV commercial and I'm so glad I checked it out...your story has given me hope.
Thanks and Blessing.
Posted over 3 years ago by Debbie G. from Tampa, Florida
Wow! This is the kind of stuff all people need. Thanks, this article will definitely help me realise my dreams, which nobody holds for real. Bless you!
Posted over 3 years ago by Heinz P. from Bonn, Germany
What an inspiring story! You rock! I am almost 37 years old, and my situation is somewhat similar, and it was very nice to know that someone else out there feels the same way as I do. I guess it just helps to know that I'm not alone in my life struggles. I, too, feel that life begins at 40, and that one should never give up on their dreams, no matter what their age. Age is just a number.
Posted over 3 years ago by Tina B. from Oklahoma, USA
Really, it is a very encouraging story. After reading this I can do what I want. Thanks for encouraging us.
Posted over 3 years ago by Manisha Gupta from India
Great story. Kudos for following your dreams. What a gift you've given your children.
Posted over 3 years ago by Alysia S. from Hatfield, PA
CONGRATULATIONS.......you followed your dream...and never gave up. What an inspiration to others. Your parents must be so proud!
Posted almost 4 years ago by Monique Z from
I feel I was reading my own story except I am still in the middle of my (your) story. I was drawn to you for a reason. Connections run far and wide. Thank you for sharing your story.
Posted almost 4 years ago by Kim L from Red Wing, MN
I have been wondering whether it is too late for me to find out what I can do with my life now when I am already 37. I need to find a new job--sometimes I feel a little scared. I was ever so happy to reed this inspirational story. I see hope in myself.
Posted almost 4 years ago by Olivia L. from
Thank you for sharing your story! I, too am pursuing my dream, and love the 40-year-old goal! You go girl!
Posted almost 4 years ago by Kate W. from Richmond, Virginia USA
Awesome! I am also working for a different field and am also highly interested in interior decoration. When I read this story it was like reading my own! I am really wonder struck. Thanks for sharing your story and uplifting my spirits!
Posted about 4 years ago by Kirthishri M.V. from Bangalore, India
I love this story. It shows that it truly is never to late to fight for you dream. If there is a will there really is a way.
Posted about 4 years ago by Mariaisabel Z. from Brooklyn, New York USA