In 2007 the movie, “The Bucket List”, with Morgan Freeman and Jack Nicholson, helped popularize the phrase ‘Bucket List‘. In the movie, the two characters were both dying from cancer and decided to create a list of things they wanted to do before they die (or”kick the bucket”). It’s definitely worth a watch!
This article’s intention is to help you understand what a bucket list is and how you can start your own. After you read the article, add a comment with your top bucket list items – we can’t wait to see what you want to accomplish!
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What is a Bucket List?
Today, people have what they call a “bucket list”. By definition, a bucket list is a list of things that you want to accomplish before you die.
It can consist of smaller things that you hope to accomplish or do in the short term as well as long-term goals and adventures that you hope to cross off your list in the future.
How do you start a bucket list?
The most simplistic way to create a bucket list is to write down what you aspire to accomplish with pen or paper or put it in the notes app on your phone. If you’re feeling more techy and/or advanced, we recommend using Trello to build your lists and add cards to those lists.
Since Trello is stored in the cloud, it can be accessed on your computer, tablet, phone, or web browser.
Here’s an example of someone’s bucket list on Trello.
Here are some examples of categories that you can use to start your bucket list:
- Places you want to travel
- Restaurants you want to eat at
- Skills you want to acquire
- Personal accomplishments
- Professional goals
RELATED: To get you started, here is the ultimate guide to summer bucket list ideas.
Why should you have a Bucket List?
Psychologically, having things you want to accomplish in the short-term and long-term is healthy. It creates dopamine in your body which gives you a sense of desire and pleasure.
Dopamine enables positive actions and helps you create healthy habits. It gives you purpose and direction in life. So, if you ever feel like you’re stagnant in your life or not fulfilled, try creating your bucket list!
Here are 7 reasons and outcomes of creating a bucket list:
- Explore new areas
- Help you get over a tough time
- Learn
- Satisfy your curiosity
- Meet new people
- Get out of your comfort zone
- Feel like a kid again
Now that you know what a bucket list, how to start your own, and what to add to it – it’s time to get going! We can’t wait to see what you accomplish.