After having children, I dedicated the first few years to being the best parent I could be. Once I became a “seasoned” parent, and my body and mental state was back to normal, there was a part of the old me that was still missing.

It then began, my search for something more – a change of direction in my life. But I had two small children. What could I do that would allow me to take care of them while pursuing a life-long goal?

In Grade 5, I created a school project about what I wanted to be when I grew up. My answer was, “a teacher, writer or actress.” I tried the acting gig while I was in University studying Journalism. After graduating, I worked several jobs, as a reporter for a local TV station, in live theatre and film production. I wrote a couple of screenplays, acted in a few small indie films and commercials, and met my husband. Somehow along the way, I needed to make “real” money, so my career went off on a completely different path, where the steady paycheque was more appealing than a non-union actor’s rate.

After having kids and checking those goals off my life to-do list, I was ready to pursue my true dream again – the dream I had put on the backburner for a long time. If not now, when?

When you have a childhood dream, it never really goes away until you pursue it full force. Getting older means more responsibility, but it also brings with it a new outlook on life. Life-altering experiences, such as parenthood, bring a new clarity that may not be present in our younger years.

I knew I wanted to write. So I started writing my blog when blogging was fairly new, and shared my opinions and stories. Though few people were reading, it felt wonderful knowing my voice could be heard. I started freelance writing for magazines, websites, and corporate clients. I’m now in the midst of writing my first book.

Juggling kids, home life and work obligations in order to pursue a goal doesn’t come without challenges. Despite hectic schedules and obstacles, you learn to just keep going.

Is there a deadline to pursue your dream? What’s beautiful about life is that it’s never too late to try something new, or change your current situation.

Stick to your job. Don’t make a mistake. It’s too late. I’m too old. Some people may argue that it’s too late to follow your dream, or it’s tough to start over, or pursue an entirely new goal. These are excuses people put on themselves out of fear. Imagine missing a wonderful opportunity or a chance for real happiness because you put a limit on yourself?

Pursuing long-held ambitions later in life can be accomplished, if the love and passion exists. There is no age limit, and there is never a deadline when you pursue your true calling.