In her book "My Story," Michelle Obama reflects on a common question posed to children: "What do you want to be when you grow up?" She considers this query to be somewhat misguided, viewing it as a limiting way to frame a child's aspirations. Instead of acknowledging the fluid nature of personal development, this question implies that there is a final answer or endpoint to reach, which is misleading.

Obama emphasizes that growing up is a continuous journey rather than a singular destination. Children's dreams and identities evolve over time, and asking them to pinpoint one future aspiration undervalues their potential for growth and change. By challenging this conventional question, Obama advocates for a broader understanding of identity formation and personal ambition throughout life.