turn my TEDx script summary into a childrens book: From the time we’re young, we’re asked, “What do you want to be when you grow up?” This question implies that our identity is tied to our job title. But in today’s rapidly evolving world, especially with the rise of AI and automation, this question is outdated. Instead, we should ask ourselves, “What impact do I want to have?” and “How do I align my values and passions with my work?”

More than 70% of people worldwide are disengaged in their jobs, often feeling unfulfilled. I’ve been there myself—trapped in a job that didn’t align with my passions. However, I changed my narrative by focusing on what truly mattered to me, not just what society expected. I started designing a career that fit who I am, instead of molding myself to fit a traditional career path.

As AI continues to transform industries, the future of work demands flexibility, lifelong learning, and aligning our careers with our strengths and values. We can’t prepare for jobs that don’t exist yet, but we can cultivate skills that allow us to adapt—creativity, collaboration, and leadership.

The key is to reflect on your vocation and values: Does your work bring you alive? Are you creating value for others? By answering these questions, you can craft a career that aligns with who you are and leaves a meaningful impact. Instead of asking, “What do you want to be?” let’s ask, “What mark do you want to leave?”


Let's change the question

Declan playing doctor with his stuffed animals in his bedroom

What do you want to be one day?
A doctor, teacher, or star of a ballet?
Maybe a chef who cooks with flair,
Or an astronaut who soars through air!

But wait, let’s change that question, see?
Instead of just what you’ll be,
Let’s think about what makes you glow,
What fills your heart and helps you grow?

The Big Question

Blaney standing with a confident pose, surrounded by floating question marks and light bulbs

Blaney suggested they think about what they loved doing instead. 'What if we asked, what impact do we want to have?' she said. Declan loved helping animals, and Finn enjoyed building things. They realized their passions could guide them to make a difference.

A New Idea

Finn building a colorful, futuristic machine in a workshop filled with tools and blueprints

I remember when I felt the same,
Each day felt like a waiting game.
By Friday, I'd feel such relief,
But Sunday came, and brought back grief.

I thought, “How did I end up here?
Why does my work feel so unclear?”
But then I stopped and thought it through,
“What is it that I really do?”

The Magic of Passions

Finn reading a book with a curious expression, surrounded by various symbols representing different skills

I shifted gears, I changed my tune,
And suddenly, my heart just bloomed!
I asked myself what made me proud,
What work would lift me from the crowd?

I found the spark that made me smile,
The things that filled my soul with style.
So, I followed that—and guess what, too?
Now I do what I love to do!

Learning and Growing

Declan petting a dog at an animal shelter, with a big smile on his face

The friends went on an adventure to discover what made them happy. Declan volunteered at an animal shelter, and Finn joined a science club. Blaney started a kindness project at school. They learned that discovering their passions was an exciting journey.

The Adventure of Discovery

Blaney standing in front of a chalkboard with a heart drawn on it, teaching a group of invisible students

If you can answer “yes!” with glee,
Your work is where you’re meant to be.
But don’t forget, it’s just the start,
You’ll keep on learning, play your part!

The world keeps changing, every day,
New jobs, new skills, a brand new way!
So always stay curious, never fear,
The path ahead is crystal clear.

Creating Value

Finn holding a blueprint of an invention, with a determined expression on his face

So now, let's change the way you think,
What’s your true magic? What’s your link?
To work that makes your heart feel light,
And helps you shine your brightest bright?

What problems do you want to solve?
How do you want to grow, evolve?
What’s the mark that you will leave?
What can you dream, what can you achieve?

Reflecting on Values

Declan planting a tree, symbolizing leaving a positive mark on the world

So next time someone asks you, “Hey!
What will you be when you grow one day?”
You can smile and say with cheer,
“I’ll make a difference, year by year!

I’ll find what matters deep to me,
And spread my magic wide and free!
I’ll learn, I’ll grow, I’ll take my stand,
And make the world a better land!”