I used to assume I’d become more “realistic” and conservative in my thinking as I aged, but actually the opposite has happened.
Ten years ago, when I was 26, I was focused on “establishing myself” as a “high-powered professional,” and acquiring the relationships and possessions that fit with that “role.”  I lived as if it was [...]

Some say we have an “inner child” — a part of ourselves that’s “emotional,” vulnerable, and open about its wants and needs.  Lots of personal growth work is about accessing and nurturing this “inner child” part.
Personally, I’m not a fan of the term “inner child.”  In our culture, it’s usually seen as a criticism to [...]