On the journey to becoming a productive member of society I had to compartmentalize my inner child.
During my early schoolboy years, he waited patiently for the school day to finish so that he could finally resume his creative and playful pursuits.
As the education became more involved, he had to wait a little longer because of homework.
In university, the complicated assignments, group projects, and late night study sessions meant that he would often not get to let loose until the weekend.
The full-time job, commute, technical projects, work politics, and other adult responsibilities really did the biggest number on him though. Sometimes he would go without playing for weeks, or months at a time.
Today it's as if my adult mask has adhered permanently to my face and I can no longer access him at all.
I never had the child phase as my life didn't allow it, but I have no inner need for conformity. I bought a plushie and sleep with it. It's comfy to do. I have a tiny dinosaur figurine. My child me wouldn't want or be able to get them, but my current self can be myself as much as my economical standing allows.