Many very good things have been happening lately--the result of a great deal of very hard work--to me and, by extension, the business, and I realized that a lot of the good things were the direct result of how I was raised. I was extremely fortunate to be raised by parents who wanted me to say, "yes," to life; to know that as long as I was willing to work hard, I could make my (ego-centric) dreams come true and that wanting to grow up and be a writer or poet or plumber/ballerina was fine and totally realistic. They're good people, Mr. and Mrs. Zimmerman. Despite the whole not getting me a pony thing. #maturity

I used to take their attitude for granted--didn't all parents want their children to succeed and live fully...?--until I kept meeting more and more people whose parents seemingly went out of their way to specify for their children all the many, many things they couldn't or shouldn't do.  I can't even tell you how many friends/clients I have, who can remember exactly when and where they were, when their parents first dismissed their dreams. That may sound melodramatic...but people never forget the first time they're told that something they believe in, something which makes them excited to be alive, is foolish or unrealistic. It leaves rather a grim scar. I was lucky; I was raised by parents committed to giving me opportunities...but many people are raised to be hyper-aware of all the restrictions they face. No me gusta!

Therefore, dear hearts, since the world is full of pathetic, cruel, idiots who will take a malicious glee in detailing for you, chapter and verse, all the reasons why your dreams are stupid...well, how about you be the first person to say to yourself that nope, your dreams are extremely worthwhile, thanks. How about you remind yourself that you can be whatever you want when you grow up, as long as you're willing to work hard and commit. After all, it's never too late to be what you might have been. Hard work aside, sounds more fun to me than a lifetime of excuses and feeling crappy.

Want some help with those dreams? I know a hot girl you should email: carlotazee@gmail.com.