Randy Pausch: The Last Lecture (Personal Interpretation)

Like many people in this world, we are often swayed by outside influences that hinder our successes of accomplishing our childhood dreams. 

Remember a time when being an astronaut, a ballerina, or a fireman was a child’s most desired goal? Are you the type of person that dream of being someone great but never put any effort into achieving it? Today, it is safe to say that many go through the same experiences, due to influential circumstances that arise in our daily lives.

What is the cause of such behavior? Are we afraid to shine among others or did we completely lose the “drive” to be someone great? Is it strange to say that only kids REALLY know what they want to be as an adult? During a lecture at Carnegie Mellon University, we learn that the elementary desire to achieve something valuable is what the world needs today.

On a topic about “Achieving your childhood dreams,” Randy Pausch, a terminally ill cancer patient and a professor at Carnegie Mellon University, gave a motivational lecture about how he achieved his childhood goals along with the lessons he learned throughout his life. Although his life could end at any moment, he delivered his lecture as if his illness never existed at all.

He begins with a profound quote, “Anything is possible, and that’s something we should not lose sight of, is that the inspiration and permission to dream is huge.” Randy continues on by clarifying the importance of maintaining that child-like spirit because “it is what drives us.” We see this today, as childish ideas are what help the entertainment industry flourish. (Example: Disney)

Realization

This is the very reason why many companies in the entertainment industry are successful. Their brand not only represents a particular service, but it also embraces their childhood dreams and youthful experiences which is incorporated into their reality (Example: Steve Jobs). We should all remember that our childhood experiences are what influences who we are today. To be able to reflect upon your childhood and connect it with your work creates a life worth meaning. We were all born with the ability to be creative and imaginative. When all else fails, sometimes it is best that we embrace our childhood dreams and work to bring value to our lives.

Plus, aren’t the best stories that we often share with others rooted within our adolescence? I often find myself reflecting on my past goals and comparing it to where I am today. Maybe it’s about time that we overcome that fear of RENEWING our childish dreams and try RECREATING value within our lives.

(To learn more about how you can create value and relive your childhood dreams, watch the "Last Lecture" below.)