The Sound of Regret: Why Parents Must Chase Their Dreams Too

"Do not ask your children to strive for extraordinary lives. Let your life be one."
— William Martin

While I played drums in some sleepy honky tonk in Texas—or maybe somewhere across the country—I’d drift into thoughts of my son. I’d imagine him taking music further than I ever did. In my head, he was on a tour bus headed to a concert in some far-off city. He and his bandmates had rehearsed in a dusty warehouse for weeks because the label had lined up a string of dates across America.

I could see him behind a stunning drum kit, dressed like the mysterious soul that only drummers understand. His Berklee education backing him. His practice routine solid. His passion alive. Reading charts, writing songs, making his mark.

But here’s the hard truth:
The greatest injustice I ever did wasn’t failing to “make it.”
It was not being the example first.

I used the classic excuse—“I just can’t leave my kids to chase my dreams.”
But is that really noble… or is it fear in disguise?

What if the most powerful thing we can show our kids is that anything is possible—because they saw us doing it?

Why tell your child to go to college while you work three jobs and live in quiet misery? Why preach about following passions while we bury ours under bills and busy schedules?

Yes—life happens. Responsibilities matter.
But most often, it’s not circumstance—it’s comfort.

The truth is this: Not chasing your goals as a parent teaches your child not to chase theirs.

Parents are the most influential people in a child’s life.
Even in rebellion, kids return to their roots.

It’s not too late.
It’s never too late.

Be the inspiration they’ll remember.
Live the dreams you talk about.
Do the thing.

Let’s stop raising the “I wish” generation.
Let’s show them what “I did” looks like.

Got thoughts or a story to share?
Email me at: michaelking@kingofhabits.com
Let’s talk dreams, legacy, and doing the thing.

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