Create Your Own Bucket List

If you’re sitting there, staring at a blank screen, thinking, “I have no idea what I want to do with my life,” relax. You’re not alone. Thankfully, the internet exists, and it’s basically a giant treasure trove of bucket list ideas just waiting for you. A quick search will have you dreaming of everything from learning to make authentic pasta in Italy to zip-lining over jungles in Costa Rica (and yes, you’ll want to do both).

But here’s a friendly warning: once you start googling “bucket list ideas,” prepare to lose a few hours. You’ll start with “best places to visit before I die” and before you know it, you’re watching a tutorial on how to build your own kayak out of recycled bottles. The point is, inspiration is everywhere. You just need to let yourself fall into it.

Alright, now that you’ve got a few ideas swimming around in your head, it’s time to throw caution to the wind and brainstorm like there’s no tomorrow. Seriously, don’t hold back. Let the wild ideas flow. Write down everything—everything—that comes to mind. Even that dream of learning to tap dance on roller skates. (Hey, it’s your bucket list. No judgment here.)

If it helps, break your list into categories. Like:

• Travel Adventures: Where have you always wanted to go? Paris? New Zealand? That little town two hours away with the world’s largest ball of yarn?
• Adrenaline Rushes: Always wanted to skydive? Bungee jump? Swim with sharks? (Don’t worry, you can start with swimming with turtles if sharks feel a little too “Jaws” for you.)
• Sports & Fitness Goals: Run a marathon? Climb a mountain? Learn how to paddleboard without immediately falling into the water?
• Creative Projects: Ever thought about writing a book? Learning to paint? Knitting a sweater for your dog (because nothing says love like a dog in a hand-knit sweater)?

Jot it all down. The weirder, the better. You can always edit later. For now, let your imagination run wild.

Here’s the truth about bucket lists: they’re way more fun when shared. Sure, some things on your list will be solo adventures (cue the dramatic solo backpacking montage), but others? You’ll want some company. So gather your friends, family, or that one coworker who’s always down for an adventure, and start comparing lists.

There’s a good chance your friends will have some epic ideas you’ve never even considered. Plus, when you’ve got a buddy planning with you, it’s a lot harder to chicken out of that bungee jumping trip.

The biggest secret to a successful bucket list? Actually doing the things on it. I know, mind-blowing stuff. But seriously, nothing feels better than crossing off an item from your list and knowing you’ve made it happen. Whether it’s something as simple as trying a new cuisine or as grand as traveling to a new country, take the first step. Book the ticket. Sign up for the class. Reserve that hotel. Whatever it takes, just do it. You’ll be amazed at how one small action snowballs into a lifetime of memories.