Dear Annie: From the time I was in second grade, I knew I wanted to be a writer. But everyone around me insisted it was a terrible idea. So, I chose the “safe” path and became a teacher, spending two years in a high school English classroom before transitioning to a role as a school librarian.

I also married a man I believed was the love of my life — someone who shared my writing ambitions. But shortly after we wed, he made it clear: There would be only one writer in our family, and it wouldn’t be me.

For years, I put my dream on hold. But in 1981, at age 37, I decided it was now or never. I carved out time — early mornings before the kids woke up, weekends and stolen moments in between — to write my first book. It never sold. But my second book did, and so did the one after that.

In 1985, my first novel was published. That same year, just one week before my grand opening book signing, I met a man who would become my second husband.

Thirty-nine years later, I’ve written nearly 70 books, and I’m still happily married to the man I met that day.

Dreams don’t come with deadlines, and the right people will support them — not stand in their way. — You Can Have It All

Dear You Can Have It All: Thank you for sharing your story! You showed that believing in yourself is very powerful. You didn’t let fear, practicality or even the wrong partner stop you, and now you’re proof that it’s never too late to chase a dream.

To those wondering if they should go for it, the answer is simple: Yes. Life is too short for “what ifs.” Dreams don’t have expiration dates, and passion doesn’t fade just because the world tells you to be “realistic.” If you truly want something, make space for it — even if it means getting up early or staying up late.

Balancing ambition with responsibilities isn’t always easy, but it starts with commitment. Treat your dream like it matters, because it does. Surround yourself with people who lift you up, not those who hold you back. And if you fail? Get up, try again and keep going. Success isn’t always immediate, but persistence makes all the difference.

The only real regret comes from never trying.

Read more Dear Annie and other advice columns.

“How Can I Forgive My Cheating Partner?” is out now! Annie Lane’s second anthology — featuring favorite columns on marriage, infidelity, communication and reconciliation — is available as a paperback and e-book. Visit Creators Publishing for more information. Send your questions for Annie Lane to [email protected].