How to Create a Bucket List

For those of you who’ve been following me for a while or who have heard my keynotes, you already know that writing a book was on my bucket list. 

Once I did it, my entire career changed for the better. 

That’s why I’m so passionate about bucket lists!

If you don’t have a bucket list, you’re shortchanging yourself. 

A bucket list will pinpoint those activities and achievements that mean the most to you. If you don’t prioritize your time, you might miss out on something important! Consider making a bucket list today. 

Here’s how:

1. Have different types of items on your bucket list. You might include a few physical challenges, a few adventures, a few intellectual and travel items. 

2. Keep it meaningful. Some things are impressive to others, but might not be meaningful to you. Avoid choosing items just to impress others. Worry about impressing yourself.

3. Keep the list short. You don’t have time to do everything that sounds appealing. Better yet, make a long list but always have a top 10 list. The top 10 can change over time, but always prioritize.

4. Have one item you can do with your currently available time and resources. There’s no time like the present to check an item off your bucket list. Give yourself a quick feeling of achievement.

5. Set goals that support items on your bucket list. If you want to live in Costa Rica when you retire, you might set some financial goals and start learning how to speak Spanish.

6. You don’t have to create your list in a single sitting. Assuming it will take years to check off all the items, your list will change. You’re changing, so it’s only reasonable to expect your list to change, too. Set aside a few minutes each month to update your bucket list.

7. Have a few items that are relatively easy to achieve. Some of the best things can be simple and easy. Give yourself a few easier goals and gain some momentum. Have bucket list items that range in difficulty from easy to difficult.

8. Look at other bucket lists for ideas. There are countless lists available online for viewing. Seeing the goals of others will inspire you. You might even find a good idea or two to add to your list.

9. Think about whom you’d like to share these experiences with.  Some of the items on your list you might prefer to accomplish alone. Others might be more meaningful with a friend.

Consider the many benefits of making a bucket list. It’s not only fun to brainstorm, but you can also lay out a framework for the future.

If you don’t have a bucket list, make one immediately.