my bucket list short essay

Home — Essay Samples — Life — Bucket List — Pursuing My Dreams: A Journey through My Bucket List

Pursuing My Dreams: a Journey Through My Bucket List

• Categories: Bucket List Future Plan

About this sample

Words: 951 |

Published: Mar 18, 2021

Words: 951 | Pages: 2 | 5 min read

Table of contents

Exploring the world: a journey of discovery, a wedding to remember: crafting timeless moments, building a family: a journey of love.

Cite this Essay

Let us write you an essay from scratch

• 450+ experts on 30 subjects ready to help
• Custom essay delivered in as few as 3 hours

Get high-quality help

Verified writer

• Expert in: Life

+ 120 experts online

By clicking “Check Writers’ Offers”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy . We’ll occasionally send you promo and account related email

No need to pay just yet!

Related Essays

1 pages / 468 words

3 pages / 1353 words

2 pages / 882 words

2 pages / 926 words

Remember! This is just a sample.

You can get your custom paper by one of our expert writers.

121 writers online

Still can’t find what you need?

Browse our vast selection of original essay samples, each expertly formatted and styled

Related Essays on Bucket List

Life is a precious gift that should be cherished and lived to the fullest. As we navigate through the journey of life, it is important to set goals and aspirations that we hope to achieve before our time on this earth comes to [...]

Everyone has a 'my bucket list,' a set of aspirations and dreams to fulfill in our lifetime. It's a testament to our desire for accomplishments that may seem daunting, if not impossible. Such goals reflect our appreciation for [...]

Chu, Q., Grühn, D., & Holland, A. M. (2018). Before I die: The impact of time horizon and age on bucket-list goals. GeroPsych: The Journal of Gerontopsychology and Geriatric Psychiatry, 31(3), 151–162. Education

Net neutrality enforces internet service providers to enable access to all content and applications regardless of the source, and without favoring or blocking particular products or websites. Internet providers like Comcast [...]

Quite a few people jokingly say that they have a friend or family relative who is addicted to television. What they may not realize is it may in fact be true. In Marie Winns essay TV Addiction, she first defines what she [...]

Vegetarianism has been a lifestyle adopted by many people who want to take a stand against the exploitation of animals for the pleasures of the human appetite. However, vegetarianism is not the only option available to those who [...]

Related Topics

By clicking “Send”, you agree to our Terms of service and Privacy statement . We will occasionally send you account related emails.

Where do you want us to send this sample?

By clicking “Continue”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy.

Be careful. This essay is not unique

This essay was donated by a student and is likely to have been used and submitted before

Download this Sample

Free samples may contain mistakes and not unique parts

Sorry, we could not paraphrase this essay. Our professional writers can rewrite it and get you a unique paper.

Please check your inbox.

We can write you a custom essay that will follow your exact instructions and meet the deadlines. Let's fix your grades together!

Get Your Personalized Essay in 3 Hours or Less!

We use cookies to personalyze your web-site experience. By continuing we’ll assume you board with our cookie policy .

• Instructions Followed To The Letter
• Deadlines Met At Every Stage
• Unique And Plagiarism Free

Essay Service Examples Life Bucket List

Narrative Essay about My Bucket List

The Castle Mountain

• Proper editing and formatting
• Free revision, title page, and bibliography
• Flexible prices and money-back guarantee

Our writers will provide you with an essay sample written from scratch: any topic, any deadline, any instructions.

Cite this paper

Related essay topics.

Get your paper done in as fast as 3 hours, 24/7.

Related articles

Most popular essays

• Bucket List
• Movie Summary

The movie bucket list is a Hollywood movie released in the year 2007. The movie was directed by...

Having bucket list that we want to accomplish before we die, is basically showing that we have...

When creating a bucket list it can get scary and time consuming to decide what they want to do...

Everyone sets a goal to achieve at some point in our life. Whether it is on our bucket list or New...

• Personal Experience

Ever thought about what else is missing from your life? The thrill which everyone should...

Africa, being the second most largest and populous continent in the world, is a place with many...

• Same-sex Marriage

All human beings are born with equal rights despite their sexual preference! Since the 1900s,...

• Perspective

In this assignment, it will describe and explain the different types of abuse. Abuse is when...

• Personal Beliefs
• Personal Philosophy

The Philosophy of education has been a wide international forum since the beginning of mankind. I...

Join our 150k of happy users

• Get original paper written according to your instructions
• Save time for what matters most

Fair Use Policy

EduBirdie considers academic integrity to be the essential part of the learning process and does not support any violation of the academic standards. Should you have any questions regarding our Fair Use Policy or become aware of any violations, please do not hesitate to contact us via [email protected].

We are here 24/7 to write your paper in as fast as 3 hours.

Provide your email, and we'll send you this sample!

By providing your email, you agree to our Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy .

Say goodbye to copy-pasting!

Get custom-crafted papers for you.

Enter your email, and we'll promptly send you the full essay. No need to copy piece by piece. It's in your inbox!

Essay on Bucket List

Students are often asked to write an essay on Bucket List in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Bucket List

What is a bucket list.

A bucket list is a collection of dreams and goals that a person wants to achieve in their lifetime. It’s like a wish list for adventures, experiences, and achievements. People make such lists to remind themselves of all the exciting things they want to do before they get too old or run out of time.

Why Make a Bucket List?

Creating a bucket list can inspire you to live life to the fullest. It can help you focus on what’s truly important to you and encourage you to make decisions that add excitement and joy to your life.

What Can Be On a Bucket List?

Your bucket list can include anything! It might have travel destinations, skills to learn, or even simple joys like watching a sunrise. It’s all about personal dreams and what makes you happy.

Sharing Your List

Sharing your bucket list with friends or family can be fun. They can help you achieve your goals, and you can help them with theirs. It’s a way to make memories together and support each other’s dreams.

250 Words Essay on Bucket List

Why have a bucket list.

Having a bucket list can give you something to look forward to. It can help you feel excited about the future. When you write down your wishes, it can also help you work harder to make them come true. Plus, it’s a great way to keep track of your dreams and celebrate when you achieve them.

What Can Be on a Bucket List?

Your bucket list can have anything you dream of. It might be places you want to visit, like Disneyland or the Great Wall of China. Maybe you want to learn something new, like playing the guitar or speaking another language. It could also include helping others, like volunteering in a community garden.

Sharing Your Bucket List

Sharing your bucket list with friends or family can be fun. They can help you think of new ideas, and you might even find someone who wants to do some of the same things. This way, you can make memories together.

Start Your Own List

Creating a bucket list is easy. Just grab a piece of paper and start writing down anything that makes you smile or gets you excited. Remember, this is your list, so there are no rules. Dream big, and have fun planning your adventures!

500 Words Essay on Bucket List

A bucket list is a collection of dreams, goals, and experiences that a person hopes to achieve or have during their lifetime. The term “bucket list” comes from the phrase “to kick the bucket,” which means to pass away. This list is like a to-do list for your life, filled with things you want to do before you get too old or run out of time.

A bucket list can have all sorts of things that you find exciting or important. Some people might want to travel to different countries, see the wonders of the world, or learn a new language. Others might want to go skydiving, swim with dolphins, or climb a mountain. Your list can also include simple things like reading a certain book, learning to cook a new dish, or spending more time with family and friends.

How to Create Your Own Bucket List

Creating your own bucket list is a fun and easy process. Start by thinking about what makes you happy and what you have always wanted to do. Write these ideas down on a piece of paper or in a notebook. You can add to the list anytime you think of something new. Remember, this list is personal to you, so there are no right or wrong things to include.

Working on Your Bucket List

Having a bucket list is just the start. The real fun begins when you start doing the things on your list. It might take time and effort to check off each item, but the joy and satisfaction you get from accomplishing these goals are worth it. Some goals might be easy to achieve, while others might take years of saving and planning. The key is to keep working towards them and enjoy the journey.

In conclusion, a bucket list is a powerful tool that helps you focus on what you want to experience in life. It is not just about doing thrilling activities; it is about making your life richer and more fulfilling. Whether your list has five things or fifty, it represents your hopes and dreams. So, think about what you would love to do, create your bucket list, and start living your life to the fullest!

Apart from these, you can look at all the essays by clicking here .

Happy studying!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Member-only story

CROW’S FEET WRITING PROMPT #57

My very short bucket list, the one thing i really and truly want.

Crow’s Feet

I can’t say that I’ve ever kept a bucket list. I’ve always had goals that I’d like to achieve, and I suppose it would be best to get those things done before I die so if that makes my list of goals a bucket list, so be it.

If you’d asked me years ago, my bucket list would have looked very different than it does today. I’ve never really been materialistic but back then, I think it would probably contain some luxury items like a nicer car, cruises and travel. As I’ve aged, I find that I no longer need or even desire those things.

Today, I’m more about comfort and convenience and in effect, my husband and I are making our dreams come true a little at a time.

We downsized to a smaller home in the south near a beautiful sandy beach. We no longer need to travel far to get somewhere relaxing and beautiful. Our new neighborhood is lined with nice people and palm trees. The weather is warm nine months out of the year. The house is easier to clean, and we no longer need to spend a lot of money on vacations that most of the time ended up being spent at a beach location anyway. We’re here living our beachy bucket list dream every day.

Written by Robin MS

Writer of short fiction and personal essays. Depending on my mood, my stories can be heartwarming, humorous, or horrifying. Like a box of candy, only wordier.

Text to speech

• Entertainment
• Environment
• Information Science and Technology
• Social Issues

Home Essay Samples Life

Essay Samples on Bucket List

A bucket list is a list of things one hopes to do before they die. It can be a powerful tool for self-reflection and goal-setting. Writing the bucket list essay can be a fun and meaningful way to explore your dreams and aspirations.

There are many different ways to approach a bucket list essay. Some people focus on their long-term goals, while others focus on more immediate desires. You could also organize your essay around different categories, such as travel, career, and personal development.

To write a compelling bucket list essay, it’s important to be honest and specific about your goals. Use vivid language to bring your dreams to life and convey your passion for achieving them. Be sure to include both big, ambitious goals and smaller, more achievable ones.

Remember, the purpose of bucket list essays is not just to list your goals, but to reflect on what matters most to you and why. So take the time to explore your dreams and aspirations, and don’t be afraid to be bold and adventurous in your writing.

If you’re struggling to come up with ideas for your bucket list, try brainstorming with friends or family members or better use our platform to find numerous bucket list essay examples for free.

Things to Do at the Office When You’re Bored at Work

We all have a monotonous and hectic routine where we're just a part of a rat race. We're always complaining of having so much work to do at the office, but we all know that there are times when you run out of work. Yes!...

• Bucket List

The Bucket List Activities to Complete in Vienne

Viena is the capital of Austria and a home to nearly one third of the county’s population. Vieana is one of those “must see” cities on every travelers agenda as with its cultural heritage is one of the most refine cities in Europe. Vienna is...

Alternatives to Your Bucket List Destinations

Everyone has some bucket list destinations which come with hefty price tags. If you can’t afford to travel to the countries you have been dreaming about since forever, we have some cheaper and even cooler alternatives for you. Travel doesn’t have to be expensive and...

The Analysis of Bucket List Destinations to Visit in Asia

With it's 4.46 Billion population, Asia is also a heterogeneous continent with individual countries & distinct cultures. That's why for every traveler, Asia is a must visit area. It holds 30% of the world’s total land mass. So you will find a variety of things...

Best topics on Bucket List

1. Things to Do at the Office When You’re Bored at Work

2. The Bucket List Activities to Complete in Vienne

3. Alternatives to Your Bucket List Destinations

4. The Analysis of Bucket List Destinations to Visit in Asia

Stressed out with your paper?

Consider using writing assistance:

• 100% unique papers
• 3 hrs deadline option
• Personal Experience
• Perseverance
• Personality
• Affordable Housing

Need writing help?

You can always rely on us no matter what type of paper you need

*No hidden charges

100% Unique Essays

Absolutely Confidential

Money Back Guarantee

By clicking “Send Essay”, you agree to our Terms of service and Privacy statement. We will occasionally send you account related emails

You can also get a UNIQUE essay on this or any other topic

Thank you! We’ll contact you as soon as possible.

How to Write a Bucket List

Start writing your best-ever bucket list today..

Posted July 23, 2012 | Reviewed by Jessica Schrader

• What Is Motivation?
• Take our Burnout Test
• Find a therapist near me

1. Surround yourself with people who are actively pursuing their bucket list.

Social psychologists have identified an effect called social contagion . You can catch extra willpower from your friends, so if you want to achieve your bucket list, make friends with people who are achieving their bucket list. Find people who are actively pursuing their bucket list. They're likely to enjoy talking about ideas for bucket list items, and inspire you to take action on your list.

2. Make a list of goals you want to do this year.

Here is an excellent example of someone who made a one-year list. Have a "sometime" list but also have a list for this year. You can play with the time frame further, e.g., which bucket list items do you want to do this month?

3. Mix big and small goals, and include harder/easier variations.

Your list should include things you can do

• a) for less than $100, and
• b) without leaving your home town.

Some bucket list items will naturally be small ones (e.g., attempt to make vegan cheesecake yourself).

You can also include harder/easier variations on important themes. For example, related to songwriting, you might include: write a song, play your song to an audience, play your own song to a paying audience, play your own song live in NYC, record a song, and hear your own song on the radio.

Include the steps involved in achieving larger goals as goals in and of themselves, e.g., if one goal is "write a book," then other goals would be "write a book proposal" and "learn how to write a book proposal."

Other examples of harder/easier variations:

• Have a one-on-one dinner with the president/meet the president.
• Live in an overseas country/sublet an apartment for a month in an overseas country.
• Get your own cooking show/upload a cooking show video to YouTube and get 1,000 views.
• Own a Ferrari/rent a Ferrari.

Including harder/easier variations will help you become aware of opportunities to achieve or partially achieve items on your bucket list that otherwise would pass you by.

4. Put some time aside each week to work on your bucket list (e.g., two hours each Sunday afternoon).

Spend this time taking steps towards your bucket list, either doing or planning. For example, price out what spending a month in Rome would cost, or find other people who have done this and ask them for tips. Or, find a recipe for a vegan cheesecake and make a shopping list.

5. Let your bucket list reflect your own personality , quirks, and interests.

Get beyond the perennial favorites like going to Paris, learning a language, and writing a book. Don't censor yourself because you're worried how others would judge you, or because things seem unachievable. It doesn't matter if you don't achieve some items—a bucket list isn't an exercise in perfectionism . If you want it, write it down. You can prune your list later if you lose interest in an item or realize the work isn't worth the payoff (this isn't failing, it's just changing your mind).

If you want to find out about my bucket list, you can find me on Facebook or Twitter @DrAliceBoyes.

Alice Boyes, Ph.D., translates principles from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and social psychology into tips people can use in their everyday lives.

• Find a Therapist
• Find a Treatment Center
• Find a Psychiatrist
• Find a Support Group
• Find Online Therapy
• United States
• Brooklyn, NY
• Chicago, IL
• Houston, TX
• Los Angeles, CA
• New York, NY
• Portland, OR
• San Diego, CA
• San Francisco, CA
• Seattle, WA
• Washington, DC
• Asperger's
• Bipolar Disorder
• Chronic Pain
• Eating Disorders
• Passive Aggression
• Personality
• Goal Setting
• Positive Psychology
• Stopping Smoking
• Low Sexual Desire
• Relationships
• Child Development
• Self Tests NEW
• Therapy Center
• Diagnosis Dictionary
• Types of Therapy

Sticking up for yourself is no easy task. But there are concrete skills you can use to hone your assertiveness and advocate for yourself.

• Emotional Intelligence
• Gaslighting
• Affective Forecasting
• Neuroscience

• New? Start Here
• Try For Free

The Step-By-Step Guide to Writing Your Bucket List

At the age of 26, Ted thought he had it all.

But little did he know his world was about to get shocked to the core. He had just grown and sold a company for a boatload of cash. Bought his family houses, a fleet of cars, and was traveling the world. Things seemed like they couldn’t get better…

Until one fateful day, he not only had a very close brush with death, but he spent a harrowing 35 minutes waiting for it.

He was 30,000 feet up, and his plane was going down. And as the minutes ticked by, and as he prepared for a crash landing, he realized he would die unhappy:

“As you are praying and thinking, none of the things that you had were the things that you were going to miss. It was not like “Oh, if I only bought that third car.” So, you just go through this and think “I just have so much more to do…”

After luckily making it out alive, one of the first things Ted Leonsis did was create his, now famous, “ 101 things to do before you die .”

It was years later that I found myself asking the same questions Ted was forced to ask himself as he propelled back to earth. Mainly, what makes a good life, and what does that look like for me? I’m not sure what it was, but I came to the realization that although we may be breathing, it does not mean we are actually living.

“Most men lead lives of quiet desperation and go to the grave with their song still in them.” Henry David Thoreau

The status quo is fundamentally unremarkable; therefore, we need to live awry… I know you agree, otherwise, you wouldn’t be reading this right now. And writing your bucket list is pretty much the number one way to do this because it shifts your life in a couple of profound ways:

First, it holds you alone accountable. It’s your list, and yours alone. Anything and everything you add is something you are choosing to accomplish someday, regardless of anyone else.

Second, it creates a blueprint for an intentional life. You may have heard me beat the drum on “living an intentional life” before, and that’s because there’s no other way to LIVE. Creating a bucket list puts you in the driver’s seat of your short life.

And that’s my hope for you with this guide…

That you will dig deep, find out what makes you happy, build out a killer bucket list around those things, and work towards accomplishing them. I promise you that doing this WILL drastically change your life and that you’ll never look back.

But First, before we dive in, let’s go over a few helpful things that will ensure your list doesn’t fall by the wayside.

It’s not all about travel.

I get it… You’re a travel junkie just like me. So, it’s going to be hard not to fill your entire list with far-off places and experiences you’ve always daydreamed of. But it’s not all about travel.

As you’ll soon see, we’ve broken things based on main categories like family, learning, health, etc. So, don’t forget that just because you can’t be traveling year ’round it doesn’t mean you still can’t be hammering out some awesome bucket list items.

It’s a living document.

Things change… and that’s good. So, your bucket list will have to follow suit.

For example, I used to have ‘bike through India for 4 months’ as a bucket list goal. But considering that it would be a bit tough with two little kids, I will either toss it, alter it, or keep it for later knowing it might not happen. And I’m fine with that. When life changes, change your bucket list. This is absolutely cool, as long as you’re still actively doing it!

Mix in the small with the big.

Similar to it not being all about travel, it doesn’t all have to be wildly large goals. So, consider adding smaller items—things you’ve always wanted to do but just haven’t gotten around to yet.

Maybe it’s planting a tree, learning to sew, paying for the person’s coffee behind you in line at the cafe, or running the pool table.

The same goes for adding things you want to do in your hometown or nearby because it’ll keep you progressing… And this will keep you activated with your list, while you simultaneously work towards the big ones (and it’s so much fun crossing off an item, even if it’s a small one!).

Be specific.

In order to actually check off your goals, they need to be specific. For example, “lose weight” is a good goal, but it’s not nearly specific enough to add to your list. And that’s because you have no idea when you’ve got there.

Instead, “drop to XXlbs” is perfect (if the weight is your goal, it might be body fat %, etc.) and you’ll know exactly when you can cross it off.

Do it for YOU.

This list is about you. So, don’t add items based on whether other people will think they’re cool.

Here’s the litmus test: Would you still do it if you couldn’t tell another soul? Do you really want to climb Everest? Do you really want to skydive? Do you really want to read Infinite Jest? If so, add ‘em! If not, skip them and add items that get YOU jacked up, whether anyone else on earth knows about it or not.

Add items you’ve already done.

If you have already accomplished stuff you would have added to your bucket list, then toss them into the mix with a big fat checkmark beside it!

What’s cool about this list is that over time it’s a great way to reminisce about the things you’ve done, the experiences you’ve had… all of which will have had a big part in shaping who you ended up being as a human (and I’d bet a better one with a list than not).

Be accountable.

To really spark a fire under your tush, find accountability. Inside our Life Listr app, we have a step in the creation of a new goal that allows you to share that goal with friends or family over Facebook or Twitter.

You don’t have to go as far as posting it for everyone on your social feed to see (although that’s not a bad idea), but the premise behind it is important: get someone to hold you accountable (or join you in that goal) so you don’t let it slip.

Let’s Get Started… It’s now time for the real fun stuff – writing your bucket list!

Follow these steps to create a bucket list of your very own.

Step 1: Give It A Name

For more than any other reason, it’s just fun to name your list. If you remember, Ted Leonsis named his “101 things to do before you die,” which is a classic title (although I’d change to “… before I die.”) but also has a definitive number, which you might not want to do.

Some other ideas are:

• My Life List
• 101 Things To Do While Alive (if you want to give it a number)
• My Dream List
• My Life’s Aspiration List
• My Lifetime Goals
• Things to Achieve in My Lifetime
• My Life’s To Dos
• My Life’s Bucket List
• Things to Conquer
• [YOUR NAME]’s How To Live Guide
• The Life Plan
• My Life Blueprint In XXX Goals (if you want to give it a number)
• My Life’s Must Dos
• My Livin’ Right Blueprint

…and on and on. You get the point. Play around with your favorites on the next page and, remember, all of this can be changed so don’t overthink it.

Step 2: Brain Dump!

We’ll get into fine-tuning and categorizing your bucket list shortly but, for now, just start tossing your BIG ideas down on paper or, of course, inside Life Listr ).

Don’t even think twice about them—about the money involved, the difficulty, or the criticism—just get ‘em down! We’ll walk you through plenty more ways to top up your list, but this step is about brain-dumping the big ones, the ones that you’ve always wanted, the ones that you always think about. Go for it.

Step 3: Pick Your Categories

Now that you’ve unloaded the big ones, let’s pick your categories.

Here’s our recommended list:

• Adventure & Experience
• Health/Fitness
• Learn (Skills/Knowledge)
• Do Good (Charity)
• Work (Career/Business)
• Family & Friends

If any categories don’t fit your list, toss or ignore them.

Step 4: Categorize Your Brain Dump

Now take your initial brain dump list and place each item in its most-fitting category. You’ll probably see that some overlap, and that’s totally fine. In fact, many will overlap in some regard. So just choose the most fitting category and plug them in. As you can see, your list is beginning to take shape!

Step 5: Brainstorm Time!

Before we load you up with more ideas than you can handle (don’t skip ahead! This is important!)… I want you to first brainstorm more ideas on your own because doing this will ensure that your list is as true to you as possible, without you having to over-think all your goals later and decide.

So think about these questions and add items to your list.

• What’s something you’ve said “Oh, I could NEVER do that” but have secretly dreamed of doing?
• What’s the wildest thing you can think of that would give you massive bragging rights? (and only add things that you’d still do if no one could ever know)
• What major life changes would you like to make one day?
• In the last year, have you done anything that seems bucket list worthy? Add it and use it to think of similar things that might also be bucket list worthy for you.
• Think of your hobbies… are there any big goals related to them that you’d like to accomplish one day?
• If you were to die tomorrow, what would you wish you could do before it happens?
• What would you do if you had unlimited time, money and resources?
• What have you always wanted to do but have not done yet?
• Any countries, places or locations you want to visit?
• What have you always dreamed of laying your eyes on?
• What family dreams do you want to have? What about with friends?
• What experiences do you want to have/feel?
• Any work or business goals you’ve always had?
• What activities or skills have you always wanted to learn?
• Any fitness goals you want to achieve?
• What about your finances—any big goals you have?
• Look again into each of your categories… are there any goals you can think of that fit? Take any ideas you’ve derived from these questions and add them.

Those questions will certainly put the hamster wheel in high gear. Now, let’s take it deeper… See, you probably already have a sweet list of cool things to do, have, and experience. But I’d be remiss if I didn’t share with you the #1 way, I know of to dig deeper and find out what would give your life the greatest meaning it could. Here’s the deal…

If I offered you a crystal ball to peer into your future, to find out exactly how your life would be laid out, would you take it? We don’t have that. We have something better because what follows puts you in the driver’s seat before it’s too late and all in hindsight. But it’s going to take some kahunas because you’re going to have to face your own death… 

Introducing, The Obituary Exercise. It comes from our friend Roz Savage’s technique on getting more of what YOU want out of life while you still can.

Click to Download The Obituary Exercise

I have no doubt that going through this exercise is a LIFE CHANGER. It was the beginning of Roz becoming an ocean rowing world record holder (multiple times) and even the National Geographic Adventurer of the Year!

Please take the time to go through this. Who knows where you’ll end up! And that’s the best part because this process may light up some repressed dreams—stuff that makes you truly you. After you go through the exercise, take what you’ve created and write them as goals.

Step 6: My Bucket List

Now that you’ve brainstormed, categorized, and piled up a slew of bucket-list-worthy ideas in this guide, it’s finally time to compile your master list.

Psst! Need some more inspiration? We got you covered with a list of Bucket List Travel Experiences here .

Step 7: Give It A Once-Over

Now that you’ve finished creating your list, go over it one last time and cut anything that isn’t truly compelling… that isn’t truly you.

And it’s okay to be tough with this because the goal is for you to accomplish your list, right? So anything that you’re not going to put in the work to do because you don’t want it bad enough, nix it. Then, what’s left will be the stuff you’re jacked up to get done!

Step 8: Get Specific

The last thing you’re going to do is go over your finalized list and make sure everything is specific enough like we discussed earlier.

So go over your list now and add the details that will allow you to KNOW you’ve done them, without a doubt. Now let’s get into the easy process for living your list.

Step 9: How To Actually Get It Done

Congrats on creating your very own bucket list! And if you thought that was fun, you’re in for a treat because dreaming is only the beginning of living a bucket-list worthy life… now you have to actually LIVE IT! And here’s how:

Phase 1: Create A Focus List 

The big problem with creating such a grandiose list as you’ve just done is that it’s hard to know where to start. Now all you need to do is pick 1-5 goals to focus on, and no more than that. Of course, this can be tough too. So let’s walk through a few ways to make it easier on ya…

First things first, pick one item you can do in the very near future. The reason is that it’ll get you off on the right track with a skip in your step because you’ll actually be accomplishing your bucket list and not just dreaming about it. (You can even use 2 fairly easy goals you can accomplish fairly soon if you’d like.) Another idea is to create mini-lists within your main list so have a smaller, more manageable group of goals to accomplish.

For example, you could create a seasonal mini-list, such as a “Spring 2020 Mini-List,” or a “#WinterGoals” list. Then, mark all the items you can accomplish during that season. Another example is to make a list for your current year (“Nailing Life In 2020”), or one based on your age (“40 Before 40”).

What’s good about these mini-lists is that they put a deadline on a group of goals, which will inevitably light a fire under your butt to get on with them!

And outside of mini-lists and adding an easier goal or two, you ideally want to add 2-3 tasks that need work, so you can continually be working towards them and crossing off the big life goals at the same time as some smaller ones. 

Phase 2: Plan Your Focus Goals

You know the goal, you know it’s a focus, now let’s set you up with the easiest way to eat an elephant (one bite at a time). For each of your Focus Goals, do the following:

Choose a realistic deadline:  It’s okay to be aggressive, but also be realistic.

Create your action steps plan: This is the meat of why you’ll live your list because you’ve created action steps and took action on them! Without doing this, you’ll be leaving it all up to luck and, most likely, time will zip by and you’ll realize you didn’t do nearly the amount of stuff you wanted.

For each goal have a spot for 3 action steps, a title, a due date, and a cost. Many tasks, like “research the smartest way to learn guitar,” won’t have a cost associated, so just leave it blank. But I suggest you do put a title and a due date for each. Then, I recommend you add that task to whichever ToDo List app you may use, or even just to your phone’s calendar, so you can be alerted of these deadlines so you stick to them (we also alert you of your deadlines in the LifeListr app if you’d like).

Phase 3: Get Started!

This new bucket list journey you’re on is exactly that: a journey . It’s not a sprint, it’s a way of life.

And your main priority in all of this is to simply keep progressing. That’s it! What will happen as you work on the action steps of your focus goals will be magical, and your life will never be the same. You’ll feel like you’re living with purpose and intention.

This will snowball into more adventure, more experiences, and an even stronger drive to live the width of your short life, not just the length of it. 

I applaud you for grabbing your life by the reigns. After you’ve hammered out a few items on your list, please share them with us over Facebook , Instagram , Twitter , email us . We LOVE to hear about and brag about our community members making incredible things happen in their lives!

Onwards and upwards, amigo.

P.S. If you want a dedicated place to keep your bucket list brainstorming, master list and focus goals – you’ll want to check out The Bucket List Blueprint!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Related Posts:

Advertiser Disclosure

This site is part of an affiliate sales network and receives compensation for sending traffic to partner sites, such as CreditCards.com. This compensation may impact how and where links appear on this site. This site does not include all financial companies or all available financial offers. We appreciate your support!

Editorial Note: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airlines or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

Travel Tips, Tricks, & Hacks — Straight To Your Inbox

No spam, only the goods. And we would never share your info with anyone.

• Bucket List
• Travel Tips
• Remote Work
• Gift Guides

Most Popular Stories

11 Proven Ways To Be A Responsible Traveler

We want to be responsible adults, responsible citizens, but what about responsible travelers? Are there things we can do that protect us and those around

7 Literary Cities for the Book Lover

We read books to learn new skills, understand our world better, and get lost in the incredible stories of authors from all walks of life. 

14 Tips for Anyone Traveling Alone

In these challenging times, our schedules are out of whack and we are itching to explore. You may find that significant others and close friends

13 Unique Gift Ideas For Father’s Day

Our fathers hold a special place in our hearts. Whether you’re able to spend this Father’s Day with yours or not, we hope to help

Travel More, Remember Better.

• Journo Travel Journal
• Currency Converter
• Become An Insider
• Digital Nomad Secrets
• Remote Work Wealth Club
• Travel Hacker's Toolkit
• Travel Fund Challenge
• Insider Adventures
• Shop Travel Goods
• TERMS & CONDITIONS
• PRIVACY POLICY

• Environment
• Information Science
• Social Issues
• Argumentative
• Cause and Effect
• Classification
• Compare and Contrast
• Descriptive
• Exemplification
• Informative
• Controversial
• Exploratory
• What Is an Essay
• Length of an Essay
• Generate Ideas
• Types of Essays
• Structuring an Essay
• Outline For Essay
• Essay Introduction
• Thesis Statement
• Body of an Essay
• Writing a Conclusion
• Essay Writing Tips
• Drafting an Essay
• Revision Process
• Fix a Broken Essay
• Format of an Essay
• Essay Examples
• Essay Checklist
• Essay Writing Service
• Pay for Research Paper
• Write My Research Paper
• Write My Essay
• Custom Essay Writing Service
• Admission Essay Writing Service
• Pay for Essay
• Academic Ghostwriting
• Write My Book Report
• Case Study Writing Service
• Dissertation Writing Service
• Coursework Writing Service
• Lab Report Writing Service
• Do My Assignment
• Buy College Papers
• Capstone Project Writing Service
• Buy Research Paper
• Custom Essays for Sale

Can’t find a perfect paper?

• Free Essay Samples

How to Make a Bucket List

Updated 17 March 2023

Subject Goals

Downloads 57

Category Life

Topic Bucket List

A bucket list is a collection of goals, dreams and aspirations that you want to accomplish in your lifetime. It's a great way to get inspired and start planning for the future. It can also help you stay focused and motivated to reach your goals, and it can be a fun way to make memories.

A bucket list can be as simple or elaborate as you want it to be, but the key is to have some sort of structure. Some people like to keep their lists private, while others use apps or websites to track them and share with family and friends. If you're not sure how to go about making your own list, check out our step-by-step guide to creating a bucket list.

When to Create a Bucket List

It's always a good idea to start your bucket list when you're feeling happy and content with your life. You'll find that it makes the list more manageable and easier to stick to.

If you're having a hard time thinking of ideas for your bucket list, try doing some brainstorming with your friends or family. They may be able to help you come up with some amazing ideas that you haven't thought of yourself. Consider using visual aids when you're creating your bucket list. Adding pictures or vision boards can give you a sense of accomplishment and make you feel more excited about the things on your list.

Add a Bucket List Name

It's important to have a name for your bucket list that inspires you and speaks to your passions. Whether you're a nature lover, sports fan, or just like to travel, it's important to name your bucket list something that has a specific meaning for you.

Having a good name will remind you why you are creating your bucket list, and it will also help to give you a sense of motivation. Maybe you're looking for a new adventure, or you're struggling to overcome a fear that's holding you back. Once you have a name, you can begin brainstorming ideas for your bucket list. This can be done in a variety of ways, including mind mapping or dreamstorming. You can even use a bucket list template to get you started.

Channel your inner child

If you want to create a bucket list that will be fun and memorable, it's important to include some activities that will bring you joy. Taking a vacation, building a sand castle or riding on a firetruck with your best friend are some of the most fun and exciting ideas for your bucket list.

Scuba diving

One of the most exciting and adventurous bucket list ideas is scuba diving, which allows you to experience the marine world in a whole new way. Getting up close and personal with sharks, turtles, and other ocean creatures will be an unforgettable experience that you'll never forget.

Finding a Soulmate

Another incredible bucket list item is to find your soulmate. Having your own special someone is the most rewarding thing you can do in your life, and this is an activity that everyone should have on their bucket list.

Deadline is approaching?

Wait no more. Let us write you an essay from scratch

Related Essays

Related topics.

Find Out the Cost of Your Paper

Type your email

By clicking “Submit”, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy policy. Sometimes you will receive account related emails.

Forgotten password

Please enter the email address that you use to login to TeenInk.com, and we'll email you instructions to reset your password.

• Poetry All Poetry Free Verse Song Lyrics Sonnet Haiku Limerick Ballad
• Fiction All Fiction Action-Adventure Fan Fiction Historical Fiction Realistic Fiction Romance Sci-fi/Fantasy Scripts & Plays Thriller/Mystery All Novels Action-Adventure Fan Fiction Historical Fiction Realistic Fiction Romance Sci-fi/Fantasy Thriller/Mystery Other
• Nonfiction All Nonfiction Bullying Books Academic Author Interviews Celebrity interviews College Articles College Essays Educator of the Year Heroes Interviews Memoir Personal Experience Sports Travel & Culture All Opinions Bullying Current Events / Politics Discrimination Drugs / Alcohol / Smoking Entertainment / Celebrities Environment Love / Relationships Movies / Music / TV Pop Culture / Trends School / College Social Issues / Civics Spirituality / Religion Sports / Hobbies All Hot Topics Bullying Community Service Environment Health Letters to the Editor Pride & Prejudice What Matters
• Reviews All Reviews Hot New Books Book Reviews Music Reviews Movie Reviews TV Show Reviews Video Game Reviews Summer Program Reviews College Reviews
• Art/Photo Art Photo Videos
• Summer Guide Program Links Program Reviews
• College Guide College Links College Reviews College Essays College Articles

Summer Guide

College guide.

• Song Lyrics

All Fiction

• Action-Adventure
• Fan Fiction
• Historical Fiction
• Realistic Fiction
• Sci-fi/Fantasy
• Scripts & Plays
• Thriller/Mystery

All Nonfiction

• Author Interviews
• Celebrity interviews
• College Articles
• College Essays
• Educator of the Year
• Personal Experience
• Travel & Culture

All Opinions

• Current Events / Politics
• Discrimination
• Drugs / Alcohol / Smoking
• Entertainment / Celebrities
• Environment
• Love / Relationships
• Movies / Music / TV
• Pop Culture / Trends
• School / College
• Social Issues / Civics
• Spirituality / Religion
• Sports / Hobbies

All Hot Topics

• Community Service
• Letters to the Editor
• Pride & Prejudice
• What Matters

All Reviews

• Hot New Books
• Book Reviews
• Music Reviews
• Movie Reviews
• TV Show Reviews
• Video Game Reviews

Summer Program Reviews

• College Reviews
• Writers Workshop
• Regular Forums
• Program Links
• Program Reviews
• College Links

My Bucket List

Most bucket lists include things like skydiving or bungee jumping, but I want to do things that leave a mark, because people are not remembered for the things they never did. To back up my claim that my bucket list is unique, I would like to give evidence. It would be worth my while to save a life as a successful doctor before I die. To be a successful doctor, I would have to go to school, and I would love it to be an Ivy League school. When I am done with all that, I am going to travel the world and see and do things most people only dream about. I am going to live before I die, because I refuse to die before I have lived. I like to aim big, and to me, an Ivy League school is big. I want to graduate from a school like Harvard or Yale because I want to know what it feels like to be the best; to be able to look at the wall and see my certificate hanging there, stating to anyone observant enough to look, that I, Hope, did not just go to school and get my credentials, but that I went to the school and got my credentials. Nobody comes from a place like that only to go nowhere. For me, it could open so many doors to success that there would be no way I could fail, including the door to my long pursued medical career. It may take a lot of time and resource, but it is time and resource I can afford with a little bit of hard work. With the help of my grades and sports (and my ethnicity), I could qualify for scholarships that could be my ride to school. Whatever I do to get there will be well worth it, but just because I am willing to work hard and wait for this particular goal does not mean it is the last thing on my list. Oh no, I am far from done. It is hard to believe that a couple of television shows could influence my life in such a way that it has, but alas, it did. I started watching shows like Scrubs, Untold Stories Of The ER, and House, M.D., and I was hooked. After that, I was drawn to all things medical. I started reading any medical texts I could get my hands on and I could not get enough. The more I was exposed to these things, the more interested I became, and the more my dream of becoming a big, successful doctor and saving lives grew. I can truthfully say that on this goal, I will not give up, but everyday my determination will expand until this gossamer web of dreams becomes an adamant reality. Once again, I must remind the reader of this list that this is not the end, for this list is unrelenting until I breathe my last breath. I would like to be the one who came, the one who saw, not the one who wished they had. I want to see everything my eyes can take, and I want to learn every language my brain can hold. I want to travel the world. On this seemingly endless trip, I would most likely look forward to New York and Japan the most. Forget about the Statue of Liberty. I want to visit the National 9/11 Memorial ,which lies on the exact spot the disaster of 9/11 took place, and learn every detail I can because like Mahatma Gandhi said, “Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever.” The Japanese culture has always interested me and to learn its language and culture in Japan would be a great feat for me. I want to experience all the cultures, speak all the languages, and see everything. In the event that I graduate from an Ivy League school, become a world-renowned doctor, and travel the world, I will not sit down and wait to die, but I will continue to make the most of the world. Having a bucket list does not mean I am getting ready to die; it means I am trying to live. I have much more to do after that, like maybe writing a book or creating a clothing line. A bucket list is not a bunch of things to do so that you can die; it is a list to urge you to live and not just be. It is a reminder to anyone who took the time to make one that you have to die sometime and you can only live once. As I change my paths, I change my destinations, and this bucket list is a list of my destinations. Like Chuck Palahniuk once said, “We all die. The goal isn’t to live forever. It is to create something that will,” and by reaching these goals, I am creating a legend and leaving my mark: a mark that will live forever.

Similar Articles

Join the discussion.

This article has 0 comments.

• Subscribe to Teen Ink magazine
• Submit to Teen Ink
• Find A College
• Find a Summer Program

Share this on

Send to a friend.

Thank you for sharing this page with a friend!

Tell my friends

Choose what to email.

Which of your works would you like to tell your friends about? (These links will automatically appear in your email.)

Send your email

Delete my account, we hate to see you go please note as per our terms and conditions, you agreed that all materials submitted become the property of teen ink. going forward, your work will remain on teenink.com submitted “by anonymous.”, delete this, change anonymous status, send us site feedback.

If you have a suggestion about this website or are experiencing a problem with it, or if you need to report abuse on the site, please let us know. We try to make TeenInk.com the best site it can be, and we take your feedback very seriously. Please note that while we value your input, we cannot respond to every message. Also, if you have a comment about a particular piece of work on this website, please go to the page where that work is displayed and post a comment on it. Thank you!

Pardon Our Dust

Teen Ink is currently undergoing repairs to our image server. In addition to being unable to display images, we cannot currently accept image submissions. All other parts of the website are functioning normally. Please check back to submit your art and photography and to enjoy work from teen artists around the world!

How it works

Transform your enterprise with the scalable mindsets, skills, & behavior change that drive performance.

Explore how BetterUp connects to your core business systems.

We pair AI with the latest in human-centered coaching to drive powerful, lasting learning and behavior change.

Build leaders that accelerate team performance and engagement.

Unlock performance potential at scale with AI-powered curated growth journeys.

Build resilience, well-being and agility to drive performance across your entire enterprise.

Transform your business, starting with your sales leaders.

Unlock business impact from the top with executive coaching.

Foster a culture of inclusion and belonging.

Accelerate the performance and potential of your agencies and employees.

See how innovative organizations use BetterUp to build a thriving workforce.

Discover how BetterUp measurably impacts key business outcomes for organizations like yours.

Daring Leadership Institute: a groundbreaking partnership that amplifies Brené Brown's empirically based, courage-building curriculum with BetterUp’s human transformation platform.

• What is coaching?

Learn how 1:1 coaching works, who its for, and if it's right for you.

Accelerate your personal and professional growth with the expert guidance of a BetterUp Coach.

Types of Coaching

Navigate career transitions, accelerate your professional growth, and achieve your career goals with expert coaching.

Enhance your communication skills for better personal and professional relationships, with tailored coaching that focuses on your needs.

Find balance, resilience, and well-being in all areas of your life with holistic coaching designed to empower you.

Discover your perfect match : Take our 5-minute assessment and let us pair you with one of our top Coaches tailored just for you.

Research, expert insights, and resources to develop courageous leaders within your organization.

Best practices, research, and tools to fuel individual and business growth.

View on-demand BetterUp events and learn about upcoming live discussions.

The latest insights and ideas for building a high-performing workplace.

• BetterUp Briefing

The online magazine that helps you understand tomorrow's workforce trends, today.

Innovative research featured in peer-reviewed journals, press, and more.

Founded in 2022 to deepen the understanding of the intersection of well-being, purpose, and performance

We're on a mission to help everyone live with clarity, purpose, and passion.

Join us and create impactful change.

Read the buzz about BetterUp.

Meet the leadership that's passionate about empowering your workforce.

For Business

For Individuals

220 bucket list ideas to change your life

Close your eyes and complete this sentence: “Before I die, I want to….”

This is your first step in creating your bucket list.

The idea of the bucket list — the experiences we want to have before we "kick the bucket" — has captured our collective imagination for years.  

It might seem a bit sad to think about, but we all dream of things we want to do before our time is up. It isn't always about "before we die," but it creates a sense of urgency.

Creating and updating a bucket list of ideas for what you hope to see or do keeps us in touch with what we find moving and inspiring. The list keeps us dreaming, motivated , and w orking hard. It helps us stay excited about life and connected with what might fulfill our sense of purpose .

Bucket list ideas can be as grand or as simple as you like. But they should align with who you are and what you care about. They’re rooted in your interests, purpose, and passions — the things that get you up in the morning. 

The idea is simple: dream it up, write it down, and do it. In practice, though, you might find it difficult. After all, self-reflection takes time — an asset that comes at a premium these days.

Thankfully, we’re here to help you get started. Here are some of our best bucket list ideas to inspire you.

What's a bucket list?

A bucket list is a list of experiences someone wants to have at some point in their life. They’re a fun method of life planning that can include professional and personal goals or anything else you can imagine. 

Your list will undoubtedly differ from your mom’s, friend’s, or coworker’s — and that’s okay. A bucket list should reflect what you value and desire. When creating a bucket list, it can help you determine what in your life you need to start, stop, and continue to find true happiness.

Should I have a bucket list?

Having a bucket list isn’t for everyone — it depends on you and how you find fulfillment. But it helps motivate you in your everyday life . It can’t hurt to dream big, so here are some things to consider if you’re going to write one.

Pros of having a bucket list

1. it’s a measurable form of progress.

Your bucket list acts as a roadmap that you can follow. It’ll help you stay on track, prioritize, and budget for your dreams. Having a life plan is smart, but does your 5-year-plan only include professional milestones? You deserve to have a dream plan, too.

2. It gives you things to look forward to

Hope is powerful, and making a bucket list gives people a reason to nurture that spark and anticipate what’s to come when the days feel long. These goals are also great extrinsic motivators — something you should include in your personal reward system .

3. It makes life more meaningful

Bucket lists help us look past the monotonous or daily grind to bigger and better things. Life exists beyond our self-improvement books and office cubicles. A bucket list encourages you to seek out these new experiences. You have the opportunity to engage with the world, and yourself, outside of your everyday life. 

4. It helps you avoid languishing

If you’re feeling unmotivated, inspired, and kind of “blah” overall, you might be languishing . If you’re in this middle state , stress can affect you more, and your mental health might suffer. Having a bucket list — and something to look forward to — will keep you excited about life and ready to take on tomorrow.

Cons of having a bucket list

1. the fulfillment is only temporary.

Unfortunately, most of the experiences people have on their lists are temporary. The experience might be fantastic at the moment, but the moment will pass. It quickly becomes a memory. 

2. It only works for those who find meaning in reaching benchmarks

Spending more time with family and having a stable job is enough for many people. But many other people are daydreamers with additional goals. This kind of imagination is especially important for young adults. They have a whole life ahead of them, and setting goals will help them find their own type of fulfillment.

3. You may feel like you’re failing

If you haven’t crossed off something on your list or didn’t experience something by a particular age, it might lead to self-doubt or feelings of failure . Leaving dreams unfulfilled damages our self-esteem.

4. It can be superficial and performative

Some people like to share and talk about their bucket lists. That can create a sense of competition and one-up-manship. It can make us focus on big Instagrammable experiences rather than deeper, quieter everyday experiences that create life satisfaction and meaning .

How to create a bucket list

Include anything you like on your bucket list. List career goals , travel destinations, health, finance, or relationship goals. It can be as long or as short as you want. Really, if you can dream it, you can do it. 

Creating your list can feel overwhelming. It takes Inner Work® and self-reflection to create a list that aligns with your values. There are many ways you can approach this. But, if you need a hand, BetterUp is here . Our coaches can help you figure out what matters to you and thrive. 

The different kinds of bucket lists

Your list might be very long if you try to put everything down at once. If you’re overwhelmed by all you want to do, try breaking it down into categories. Here are some examples of divided bucket lists: 

• Travel destinations
• Career goals
• Foods you want to try
• Skills or hobbies you’d like to learn
• Bands you’d like to see
• Fears to overcome

Each list can contain experiences related to your interests. Think about your current career, passions, and hobbies, and turn those into cool bucket list ideas. 

220 ideas to put on a bucket list

We asked some of our friends and colleagues for ideas from their bucket lists. Here are 220 possible bucket list examples to get you thinking: 

• Visit one of the Seven Wonders of the World, like Grand Canyon National Park — the type of "awe" inspired by the vastness of nature has a powerful effect on our well-being
• Try the street food in Mexico (or any other country where the street scene seems exotic relative to your day-to-day) 
• Go bungee jumping
• Road trip across Canada on the Alaskan Highway
• Take a multi-day railroad trip in a sleeper car
• Drink beer at Oktoberfest
• See the Northern Lights 
• Visit New York City for an iconic event (Thanksgiving Day Parade or New Year's Eve)
• Try skinny dipping
• Eat shark in Iceland
• Visit New Orleans during Mardi Gras
• Hike to Machu Picchu in Peru
• Visit the sand beaches of Hawaii, Galapagos, Indonesia, or the Dead Sea
• Go horseback riding
• Try kayaking down rapids
• Ride a gondola in Venice, Italy
• Find a job you love
• Retire early
• Visit Tokyo, Japan
• Have children
• Go snorkeling or scuba diving at the Great Barrier Reef off the coast of Australia 
• See elephants in Thailand 
• Go vegetarian for a month
• Walk on the Great Wall of China
• Learn how to play guitar (or any other instrument)
• Make a meal with food entirely grown in your garden
• Set up a college fund for your children 
• Become debt-free
• Earn a second college degree
• Touch six out of the seven continents
• Learn a new language
• Become a manager
• Adopt a pet
• Go skydiving
• Write a book
• Be a background cast member in a movie
• Fill a room with completed puzzles 
• Become a homeowner
• Volunteer for your local school board
• Live in a foreign country
• Swim in all four oceans
• Perform at a local open-mic night
• Ride in a hot air balloon
• Learn to snowboard
• Attend the Olympics
• Explore the Amazon in Brazil
• Eat pho in Halong Bay, Vietnam
• Try a zipline
• Take a picture in front of the White House
• Mentor a young professional in your industry
• Go camping in the desert
• Drive along the entire coast of California
• Complete your master’s degree or Ph.D
• See a concert at the Hollywood Bowl
• Hike up a mountain in Chile
• Run a marathon
• Record a music album
• Read all the books by your favorite author
• Go white water rafting
• Own a sports car or motorcycle
• Start a scholarship fund in your name
• Volunteer on a board of directors
• Write a screenplay
• Learn a complicated recipe and cook it for your friends
• Sleep at an ice hotel
• See a show on broadway
• Try a crazy hairstyle
• Treat yourself to a spa day
• Take your family to Disney World
• Coach a kids soccer team
• Visit major cultural landmarks like the Eiffel Tower in France, the Taj Mahal in India, the pyramids of Egypt, Petra in Jordan, the Colosseum in Greece, Stonehenge in England, or Christ the Redeemer in Brazil
• Explore the stunning temples of Bagan in Myanmar
• Take a helicopter ride over the Great Barrier Reef
• Visit the beautiful lakes and castles of the Canadian Rockies
• Go on a food tour in Bangkok, Thailand
• See a show on Broadway
• Coach a kid's soccer team
• Visit the beautiful temples of Bangkok, Thailand
• Go on a camel trek in the Sahara Desert
• Attend a traditional fiesta in Spain
• Explore the historic city of Kyoto, Japan
• Take a cruise to the stunning glaciers of Alaska
• Visit the ancient ruins of Pompeii in Italy
• Experience a traditional Japanese onsen (hot spring)
• Explore the ancient city of Petra in Jordan
• Go on a wine-tasting tour in Tuscany, Italy
• Visit the breathtaking Plitvice Lakes National Park in Croatia
• Attend a traditional Maasai tribe ceremony in Kenya
• Explore the historic streets of Prague, Czech Republic
• Attend a flamenco show in Seville, Spain
• Take a cooking class in the south of France
• Go on a wildlife safari in South Africa
• Visit the stunning beaches of Seychelles
• Attend a traditional tea ceremony in China
• Explore the ancient ruins of Tikal in Guatemala
• Take a cruise to Antarctica
• Take a hot air balloon ride over Cappadocia, Turkey
• Explore the historic city of Cartagena, Colombia
• Go on a cultural tour of the temples in Cambodia
• Attend a traditional tango show in Buenos Aires, Argentina
• Take a helicopter ride over Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe
• Visit the stunning fjords of New Zealand
• Go on a wildlife safari in Tanzania
• Attend a traditional Hawaiian luau
• Explore the ancient ruins of Chichen Itza in Mexico
• Take a cruise along the Norwegian fjords
• Visit the breathtaking Great Wall of China
• Go on a wildlife safari in India's national parks
• Attend a traditional Aboriginal ceremony in Australia
• Take up a new hobby, such as gardening, knitting, or woodworking
• Learn to code and build a website or an app
• Learn to meditate and practice mindfulness regularly
• Start your own business or pursue entrepreneurship
• Start a local shelter or charity organization
• Start a blog or vlog about a topic you're passionate about
• Learn to dance a specific style, such as salsa, hip-hop, or ballet
• Take a gourmet cooking class and master a signature dish
• Learn how to rock climb
• Learn to surf
• Organize a charity event for a cause you care about
• Learn to practice yoga and achieve advanced poses
• Become a mentor for someone in need of guidance and support
• Write an e-book on a topic you're knowledgeable about
• Take up gardening and grow your own fruits, vegetables, or flowers
• Learn to play chess and participate in local tournaments
• Start a podcast and share your knowledge or experiences with the world
• Learn to swim or improve your swimming skills
• Take up woodworking and create your own furniture
• Volunteer at a local hospital or healthcare facility
• Take a self-defense class and learn to protect yourself
• Learn to juggle or perform other circus skills
• Start a journal or blog to document your personal growth journey
• Take up calligraphy or hand-lettering and create beautiful art
• Learn to bake and master a variety of delicious desserts
• Take up astronomy and learn about the stars
• Learn to play a strategic board game, like chess or Go
• Learn to do magic tricks
• Take up archery
• Learn to sew or tailor your own clothes
• Start a YouTube channel and share your passions and talents
• Take up birdwatching
• Learn to do basic car maintenance and repairs
• Volunteer at a local school and help children with their studies
• Learn to do pottery or ceramics
• Start a gratitude journal and practice gratitude daily
• Attend a SuperBowl
• Go on a hot air balloon ride at sunrise or sunset
• Have a bonfire and stargaze on a clear night
• Go on a camping trip and disconnect from technology
• Have a movie marathon of your favorite films
• Go on a scenic hike that challenges you
• Have a themed dinner party with friends or loved ones
• Go on a road trip
• Take a scenic bike ride along the coast
• Start your own business or become an entrepreneur
• Speak at a major industry conference or event
• Become a mentor to aspiring entrepreneurs or professionals in your field
• Collaborate with a renowned industry leader or influencer
• Become a thought leader and contribute to industry publications or blogs
• Win a prestigious industry award or recognition for your business
• Launch a successful crowdfunding campaign for a business or project
• Acquire or merge with another company to expand your business
• Attend a high-profile business summit or networking event
• Develop and launch a philanthropic initiative tied to your business
• Start a community garden or participate in a local gardening project.
• Donate blood regularly and help save lives
• Join a disaster relief organization and assist in providing aid during emergencies
• Offer free workshops to empower others in your community
• Create care packages for the homeless and distribute them in your city
• Explore all of the national parks in your region
• Take a nature photography expedition and capture stunning landscapes
• Go kayaking or canoeing in a calm river or lake
• Go horseback riding through beautiful trails
• Have a bonfire and roast marshmallows for s'mores
• Take a dip in a natural swimming hole or waterfall
• Go on a wildlife safari and observe animals in their natural habitats
• Have a nature-inspired art session and create artwork using natural materials
• Participate in a tree planting or environmental conservation project
• Take a sunrise or sunset hike
• Go to a nature-inspired photography or painting workshop
• Learn to identify constellations and stargaze at night.
• Try geocaching and embark on a treasure hunt in nature
• Try outdoor rock climbing or rappelling.
• Go on a nature-inspired picnic and prepare food with fresh, local ingredients
• Have a family-friendly nature scavenger hunt with riddles and clues
• Explore a nature reserve or wildlife sanctuary
• Take a guided horseback riding tour through scenic landscapes
• Go on a nature-themed geology or fossil-hunting expedition
• Have a family camping trip and share stories around the campfire
• Try your hand at outdoor photography, capturing flora, fauna, and landscapes
• Explore a local botanical garden or arboretum
• Try outdoor cooking and prepare meals over a campfire or grill
• Learn about wildlife tracking and identify animal footprints and signs
• Start an annual community clean-up event in a local park
• Travel to at least 10 different countries and experience diverse cultures
• Start a family
• Build and live in your dream home
• Achieve financial stability and independence
• Learn a new language fluently
• Volunteer regularly for a cause you deeply care about
• Climb a major mountain
• Achieve a specific career milestone or reach a desired professional position
• Complete a degree or pursue higher education
• Make a significant contribution to scientific research or innovation
• Travel to space or experience zero gravity
• Learn to surf, ski, or participate in an extreme sport that excites you
• Learn to paint, draw, or express your creativity through art

These are just a few of our best bucket list items. Yours will look different, and that’s the point. The possibilities are endless.

Time to bring your bucket list ideas to life

Ready to make your bucket list a reality? The first step is to write it down. Listing your goals in a journal can make them feel more real. There are no rules for how to journal, so you can organize your notebook however you want. But if you’re looking for a place to start, consider these journaling techniques:

• Manifestation journal : Whether you want to hike in New Zealand or be an ocean scientist in Maine, you must open yourself up to the possibilities. Use future-minded thinking to make your bucket list a reality. 
• Gratitude journal : Keep a place to reflect on the special things you’ve done so far. This will be a great motivator to keep working on your list!
• Ideas journal: A dumping ground for all of your wildest dreams and ideas. Try not to filter yourself — the sky’s the limit! You can come back to them to see if they work as true bucket list items or if they were just fleeting ideas.
• Daily journal: Use your notebook to set daily goals , reflect on your experiences, and document your adventures. This will help you discover what activities are most meaningful to you.
• Vision journal: Instead of writing down your bucket list, why not visualize it? Create a vision board or scrapbook of everything you want to do.

If pen-and-paper isn’t your sty le, you can create your list in a computer document or spreadsheet. Better yet, create a profile on bucketlist.org or bucklist.net . Signing up will grant you access to customizable lists and goal-tracking tools. Plus, you can connect with other bucket listers online and be inspired by their achievements. 

Moving forward with your bucket list

"One day, you will wake up and there won’t be any more time to do the things you’ve always wanted. Do it now.” 

Best-selling author Paulo Coelho had it right. 

According to a 2018 study, the average employee will spend 25% of their lives working . But what we do with the other 75% of our lives is up to us. It’s important to carve out time to enjoy what the world offers, make new friends, create new family traditions , and build memories.

Having and following through on your bucket list ideas is a form of self-care . Whether you want to create a travel bucket list to go to Spain or prioritize your family and career, it’s never too late to start chasing your dreams and prioritize your emotional well-being . The world can be an overwhelming, even scary place, but you’re capable of anything you set your mind to. 

Now that you’ve made your list of things, it’s time to go out and start making those ambitions a reality — even if it's outside your comfort zone . That’s where you’ll grow. 

Understand Yourself Better:

Big 5 Personality Test

Allaya Cooks-Campbell

With over 15 years of content experience, Allaya Cooks Campbell has written for outlets such as ScaryMommy, HRzone, and HuffPost. She holds a B.A. in Psychology and is a certified yoga instructor as well as a certified Integrative Wellness & Life Coach. Allaya is passionate about whole-person wellness, yoga, and mental health.

Get closer to your dreams: 20 examples of monthly goals that work

How to make a self-care checklist (and 7 examples), 11 healthy lifestyle tips to transform your life each day, lonely here are 18 ideas for what to do when you feel alone, how to challenge yourself to start living your best life every day, you’ve earned it: learn about the benefits of rewarding yourself, beyond happiness: learn how to be content with life, 31 mindfulness activities you can include in your daily life, 50 good habits to help spur your mental well-being, 110 random acts of kindness: ideas for the workplace and beyond, 52 new year’s resolutions ideas for 2024, how to recognize mental abuse, and why it's not your fault, motivation and inspiration: examples in life and work, how to get out of your comfort zone (in 6 simple steps), the 20 best hobbies to do after work to unwind and relax, how to make a to-do list that simplifies your life, not sure what to do on a mental health day try these 12 ideas, stay connected with betterup, get our newsletter, event invites, plus product insights and research..

3100 E 5th Street, Suite 350 Austin, TX 78702

• Platform Overview
• Integrations
• Powered by AI
• BetterUp Lead™
• BetterUp Manage™
• BetterUp Care®
• Sales Performance
• Diversity & Inclusion
• Case Studies
• Why BetterUp?
• About Coaching
• Find your Coach
• Career Coaching
• Communication Coaching
• Personal Coaching
• News and Press
• Leadership Team
• Become a BetterUp Coach
• BetterUp Labs
• Center for Purpose & Performance
• Leadership Training
• Business Coaching
• Contact Support
• Contact Sales
• Privacy Policy
• Acceptable Use Policy
• Trust & Security
• Cookie Preferences

eslwriting.org

A panoply of teaching resources.

My Bucket List

For example, some students don’t like the word “essay” because it seems like work. So, I used the word ‘letter’ instead or ‘essay.’ I asked my students to write a letter to describe their ‘bucket list.’ My students’ results were impressive (considering that they are exhausted from studying for grade 7 tests).

Photo by Longhorndave

Writing Lesson

In this writing lesson, write a five-paragraph letter that talks about things you want to do in your life.

‘My bucket list’ is the subject of the letter. ‘Bucket list’ is a slang phrase for your life goals. It’s the things you want to do before you die. Bucket list comes from the English expression – kick the bucket – which means to die.

The letter about your life dreams should tell a story, with a beginning, middle, and conclusion. Your letter should include:

• details about what you wan to do
• good paragraph structure
• an introduction and a conclusion
• sentences that read smoothly

Writing Prompts

Here is the writing prompt to start your thinking. “Before I go, I want to …”

In this sentence ‘go’ means die.

Choose one (or more) of these ideas for your letter: “Before I go, I want to …”

Student Writing

Here are two examples of student writing. They are grade 7 students. English is not their first language. This is what they wrote after one edit. I have not changed their writing.

Dear Grandpa,

It’s me. It’s been almost 2 years since you kicked the bucket. I want to do things you couldn’t before I kick the bucket.

Before I go to meet you, first I want to go to an amusement park with my grandma. You always told me your stories about when you were young. Also you told me about when you hoped to get better and go to an amusement park with grandma. So, before I kick the bucket, I would like to visit an amusement park with my grandma.

Second, I want to go into FNC Academy. FNC is a place where FT Island and Oh Won-bi work. When I go to FNC Academy, I will learn very much and go out to the world. You always wanted me to be a talk show host! I will try to become the legend of talk show hosts.

Third, as you wanted, I will make my sister become a famous violinist. When she becomes a famous violinist, I promise to visit you. I think she can be the next famous violinist in the world.

Fourth, I want to become a scientist. I will make a time machine and go back to the time when you were not sick. I will give you the medicine to make you better. And we will live happily ever after.

Lastly, I hope you come back. I hope you come back and have a nice time with me and do everything we couldn’t do when you were sick. This is the thing I have always wanted. Then let’s meet after I kick the bucket.

Have a nice Christmas,

Dear Santa Claus,

Hi Mr. Santa. It’s me. I am a 14 year old girl who has many dreams. There are some things I would like to do before I kick the bucket.

I would like to visit the DMZ. A school teacher said the DMZ is the cleanest place in the world because no one has been there for 60 years. I heard that there are many explosives but I hope to avoid a landmine if I go there.

I would like to see FT Island in concert. Preferably, a front row center seat. Then I can see them easily. Even thinking about it makes me happy. It would be cool to sit in the front seat and scream.

I would like to go to FNC Academy. FNC Academy is where FT Island, Oh Won-bi and CN Blue work. These are my favorite singers. I will like to go there with J and look around inside. Maybe Han Sung -ho will let J go on a comedy show.

These are the things I want to do before I kick the bucket. I hope you help me do these things. Thank you for reading my letter, Santa Claus. I will wait for your present on X-mas. Bye. ASAP.

2 thoughts on “My Bucket List”

Great idea! Thank you.

Thanks for the super positive comment, Kristen. If you try this writing exercise, let me know how it works.

Rob, the brains behind this website

Leave a Comment

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Search form

• Study break
• YouTuber zone

What's on your bucket list?

A bucket list is like a wish list of things you'd like to do. In this video Asha tells us what's on her bucket list. 

Instructions

Watch the video and use the subtitles and the transcript to help you understand. 

Hi, guys. My name is Asha and this video is for British Council’s LearnEnglish Teens online magazine and YouTube channel, and today I just wanted to talk about bucket lists – which are lists that you wanna accomplish things, like, by a certain age, or just before the end of life itself … but I just wanted to sit down and share some of them with you guys.

1) One thing I would really love to do one day and that is to visit Australia and New Zealand, and spend like a good three or four months there and really get to know the place.

2) One of the things I would love to do is see England play in a … er … football match, like a World Cup football match or a Euro football match. Just because I have been a supporter of England, even though people say they’re not very good, I personally am always a supporter of England and I would just love to see them play live.

3) Another one would be I would love to go interrailing, which is where you can go on a train and visit different countries in Europe, um, by a train ticket and I think it would be an amazing experience to do it and just to see different places of Europe and how different they are to each other.

4) I would also love to swim with dolphins. The people who know me – friends and family – know that I am, like, petrified of animals, um, when they come near me. But swimming with dolphins has always been something I have wanted to do when I was little, so that has always been on my bucket list. I’m not gonna lie, though. I probably would be freaking out in the water where the dolphins are when I first, like, get in, but that is, that is, that is gonna happen, soon.

5) The next one would be … I don’t know how many I’ve said … would be to hit 10,000 subscribers on my own YouTube. Just because it’s always been a dream and … since I was little. Again, these bucket list, erm, things have been since I was little … which you guys can help me achieve and subscribe to my channel, but, um, no, only joking, only if you like my channel.

6) And the last one I can remember from the top of my head is to do a colour run. Like, running just by yourself seems slightly boring, personally. But, a colour run seems so fun, throwing colours, colour sprays all around. Like, that is something I would like to do. And that is a doable one, so I should really get that done this year.

But that is … the only ones I can think of right now. Comment down below, erm, things that are on your bucket list. I would love to know and maybe I will steal some of them and put them on my bucket list if I think, ‘You know what? I would love to do that too.’ Do not forget to like this video and do not forget to subscribe so you don’t miss out on all these videos. And I will see you in the next one. Bye!

Worksheets and downloads

What's on your bucket list?

Sign up to our newsletter for LearnEnglish Teens

We will process your data to send you our newsletter and updates based on your consent. You can unsubscribe at any time by clicking the "unsubscribe" link at the bottom of every email. Read our privacy policy for more information.

STOP DREAMING ABOUT YOUR BUCKET LIST AND START LIVING IT.

You can face your fears to live your list—and I’ll help you do it. Jump right in and get my 2,000 Bucket List Ideas for FREE .

Latest Articles

September Bucket List: 26 Must-Do Activities to Welcome Fall

One Bucket List Day in Hopland, California: A Fun 24-Hour Itinerary

15 Bucket List Ideas That Keep Popping Up on Every List!

August Bucket List: 39 End of Summer Fun Ideas

Get your 2,000 free bucket list ideas.

We respect your email privacy | Powered by AWeber Email Marketing

Hey There! I’m Annette.

I help dreamers live their bucket list..

I’m also a goal obsessed mid-lifer, traveler, experience collector, fear crusher, digital marketer, author, penny-pincher, lover of the color greige, devoted red wine drinker and so much more.

Our Favorite Printable Worksheets

Live your bucket list, start your bucket list journey here….

Tools and inspiration to start living your bucket list.

BUCKET LIST TIPS

5 easy steps to make a bucket list.

The Ultimate Travel Bucket List

bucket list ideas

1000+ of the best bucket list ideas.

Hey Bucket Listers! I'm Annette .

I’m a goal obsessed mid-lifer, traveler, experience collector, fear crusher, digital marketer and author with big bucket list dreams. Let's Connect!

GET MY 2,000 free bucket list ideas

Jump right in and you will get your printable ideas by email:

Whatcha Looking for?

Home About Blog The Shop Partnerships Contact

Bucket list ideas travel facing fear & anxiety.