Ten Years Down the Road: A Different Kind of Dream

Daily writing prompt

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

You know that classic question, “Where do you see yourself in ten years?” It’s something that pops up in job interviews, casual conversations, and even those moments of late-night introspection. If you’d asked me this even a decade or two ago – maybe in my twenties, thirties, or forties – my answer might have painted a picture filled with the traditional milestones. I might have envisioned myself climbing the ladder in a dream job or basking in the glow of significant success. Those were the aspirations that often danced in my younger mind.

But time, as it always does, has a way of adjusting our focus. Sitting here today, with a few more chapters under my belt, that question elicits a profoundly different response. The lens of age, far from dimming the view, brings a sharper clarity to what truly matters.

Gone are the ambitious career trajectories and the pursuit of conventional achievements as the primary goals. Now, as I look out over the next decade, my biggest hope is to maintain good health and the ability to stay fully active. Imagine being able to continue exploring the world around me – whether that’s capturing the beauty of nature with my camera or simply enjoying a hike in the Wisconsin air – that truly feels like the ultimate success.

Beyond my own well-being, there’s a deeper yearning that has taken root. It’s the desire to leave the world a better place. Perhaps that’s through sharing my experiences and insights, or maybe it’s in smaller, more personal ways. Having seen my daughters grow into wonderful adults, the importance of a positive legacy feels more tangible than ever.

I don’t want to sound like I’m gazing into a crystal ball with a sense of resignation. Far from it! Life remains a precious gift, full of opportunities for connection and contribution. However, there’s an undeniable awareness that the arc of my life is further along than it was decades ago. The final chapter isn’t imminent, but it’s certainly within sight on the horizon.

So, as you navigate your own journey, wherever you may be on your timeline, take a moment to savor the present. Cherish your health and pursue your passions. And as you shape your dreams for the future, consider the profound impact you can have. Let’s all strive to leave the world a little brighter for those who will follow in our footsteps.

What about you? Where do you see yourself in ten years? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!