How to Start Crushing Your Bucket List
Midlife can be a time of reflection, reassessment, and a renewed focus on living life to the fullest. If you’ve spent years taking care of others, building your career or just managing the everyday, it might feel like your personal dreams and aspirations have taken a backseat. But now is the perfect time to take a look at that bucket list and start making those dreams a reality. I got serious about my list when I was diagnosed with breast cancer. Now that I reflect on that season, I would tell you - don’t wait until life takes an untimely turn before you start prioritizing your dreams. Here’s how to start checking things off your list and truly embrace the adventure that life has to offer.
The first step in tackling your bucket list is to make sure you have one! Get clear on your dreams. If you haven’t already written down your goals, now’s the time. Reflect on what you’ve always wanted to do, places you’ve dreamed of visiting, skills you’ve wanted to learn or experiences you’ve hoped to have. Don’t hold back—this is your chance to aim high.
Once your list is written, take some time to prioritize it. Some items may be more important to you than others or some may be easier to achieve. Prioritize based on what excites you most or what you feel will give you the greatest sense of fulfillment. For example, if you’ve always wanted to travel to Italy, but you’re also keen on learning to play an instrument, you might decide to start with music lessons to get the ball rolling. The key is to take one step at a time, so you don’t overwhelm yourself.
Some of the items on your bucket list may seem daunting or out of reach, and that’s okay to DREAM BIG! The trick is to break down larger goals into smaller, actionable steps. Let’s say you’ve always wanted to run a marathon, but it feels like a huge commitment. Start by setting up a plan: Begin with walking or jogging, then work your way up. Each small victory gets you closer to your ultimate goal. It’s all about progress, not perfection.
In order to make real progress on your bucket list, consistency is key. Whether it’s signing up for a class, traveling somewhere new, or picking up a hobby you’ve always wanted to try, create habits that support your dreams. If travel is on your list, maybe you commit to taking one weekend getaway every few months. If learning a new language excites you, set aside a few minutes each day to practice. Incorporating these activities into your routine will help keep your goals alive and prevent them from becoming just “someday” dreams.
Do not let fear hold you back. As we get older, self-doubt and fear can creep in. The idea of trying something new, taking a risk or stepping outside of your comfort zone can be intimidating, but midlife is the perfect time to face these fears head-on. Maybe you’ve always wanted to learn how to surf or take an art class but have been too afraid to try. Take that first step anyway! Trust that the courage to pursue your dreams will bring a sense of joy and accomplishment you won’t find by playing it safe.
If you’re feeling uncertain or want someone to share the experience with, consider involving others in your journey. Having a friend, partner or family member to join you can make the process more fun, and having an accountability buddy can push you to stay committed. Whether it’s traveling to a destination together or tackling a fitness goal as a team, shared experiences are often the most memorable.
Life happens. You may run into obstacles that slow you down or cause you to adjust your plans. That’s okay! The beauty of midlife is the wisdom that comes with experience—you know that flexibility is crucial. If one goal no longer sparks excitement or if circumstances change, feel free to adapt your list. The journey is just as important as the destination, and sometimes the detours lead to the most unexpected and fulfilling experiences.
While it’s great to dream big and look ahead, it’s also important to remember that the present moment holds joy too. Don’t wait for the “perfect” moment to start living your bucket list. Life is happening RIGHT NOW, and every small step toward your goals is a part of the journey. Embrace the beauty in the “here and now,” and let that fuel your continued exploration of what’s possible in the future.
Midlife isn’t a time to slow down; it’s a time to ACCELERATE TOWARD YOUR DREAMS. Whether you’re checking off items from your bucket list or simply making more room for things that bring you joy, you have the power to live with PURPOSE and INTENTION. Start small, stay focused, celebrate those small wins and remember that every step you take is an opportunity to create the life you’ve always imagined. It’s never too late to chase your dreams—so go ahead, start checking things off your list!
XOXO
Shannon
