Your Bucket List
It's For Everyone
A bucket list isn't just something you create when you feel the end is near. It's for every age and every ability. Don't wait until the last moment to suddenly realise that you desperately wanted to do something, see somewhere or meet someone. Wherever you are in life, it's never too late - or too early - to decide on a journey to something special.
Beyond Sky Diving and Swimming with Dolphins
Let's be honest – most bucket lists look suspiciously similar. Sky diving. Northern Lights. Swimming with dolphins. Seeing the Pyramids. All wonderful experiences, certainly, but they've become something of a template rather than a genuine reflection of individual desires.
A truly meaningful bucket list isn't about ticking off a universal set of spectacular experiences before you kick said bucket. It's about identifying what would bring you genuine fulfilment, joy, or closure in the time you have, however long that is.
What's the Point of Your Bucket List?
Before listing activities, consider what you're actually trying to achieve:
Is it about experiencing pure joy and pleasure?
Facing fears and overcoming limitations?
Creating lasting memories with loved ones?
Achieving something that feels significant?
Finding closure or healing in certain areas of life?
Expressing your authentic self in ways you've held back?
Your answer will shape what belongs on your list and what doesn't.
Beyond Experiences: Different Types of Bucket List Items
A well-rounded bucket list might include:
1. Personal Growth
What skills or knowledge have you always wanted to acquire? Learning isn't just for the young, and mastery brings deep satisfaction. Perhaps:
Learning a language you've always admired
Finally understanding how to read music
Mastering a craft that's always intrigued you
Reading those classic books you've pretended to have read
2. Relationships
Some of the most meaningful bucket list items involve other people:
Having that difficult conversation you've been avoiding
Reconnecting with someone from your past
Expressing gratitude to someone who changed your life
Creating a special experience with each of your children or grandchildren
3. Legacy Items
What mark do you want to leave on the world?
Mentoring someone in your field
Writing down family stories or recipes
Creating something that will outlast you
Supporting a cause that matters deeply to you
4. Simple Pleasures
Not everything needs to be grand or expensive:
Watching the sunrise from a specific location
Finding the perfect cup of coffee
Reading a book from cover to cover in one sitting
Dancing in the rain without caring who sees
Making It Happen: From List to Life
A bucket list that remains perpetually on the horizon isn't much use. For each item, consider:
Timeframe – Is this something to plan for next month or in five years?
Resources needed – Money, time, physical ability, help from others?
First step – What's the smallest action you could take to move toward this?
Obstacles – What might prevent this from happening, and how can you address that?
The Anti-Bucket List
Almost as important as what you want to do is clarity about what you don't. What experiences are others telling you that you "should" have, but don't actually appeal to you? What expectations are you carrying that aren't truly yours?
Permission to remove these from your list is hereby granted.
Evolving, Not Set in Stone
The best bucket lists evolve as you do. What seemed vital at 40 might feel less important at 60, and that's perfectly fine. Review your list periodically, celebrating what you've accomplished and reassessing what still matters.
Sometimes the greatest items are those you couldn't have imagined when you first created your list.
Getting Started: Reflection Questions
If you're staring at a blank page, try answering these:
What did you love doing as a child that you've lost touch with?
What would you attempt if you knew you couldn't fail?
What experiences do you find yourself envying in others?
If money were no object, but you still had limited time, what would you prioritize?
What would make you feel like you've truly lived your life on your terms?
The Ultimate Purpose
Remember, a bucket list isn't about creating an Instagram-worthy life or impressing others with your adventures. It's about ensuring that when you reach the end, you'll look back with satisfaction rather than regret.
As the poet Mary Oliver asked, "Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?"
Your bucket list is your answer to that question. Make it count.
Downloadable Worksheet
I've created a worksheet that guides you through a thoughtful process of creating a meaningful bucket list that really reflects who you are and what matters to you.