What is a Bucket List

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Bucket list

A bucket list is a list of things a person wants to do or experience in their lifetime, such as experiences, adventures, accomplishments, and objectives. Compiling these experiences—many of which are regarded as important, memorable, or difficult—is a means of making a life map. The phrase “kick the bucket,” a slang metaphor for dying or leaving this world, originates from the term “bucket list.” Consequently, a bucket list is a list of things someone wishes to do or achieve before they “kick the bucket” or, to put it another way before they pass away.

50 Bucket List Ideas

Creating a bucket list doesn’t necessarily mean that you are about to die. You could create a bucket list just as a guide and motivation to achieve your goals. It helps you to have a sense of direction and determination that drives you towards achieving your goals and doing what you consider important in your life.

So, if you ever plan on making a bucket list, here are 50 bucket list ideas.

1. Travel the World

Planet Earth has an equatorial radius of about 6300 kilometers, 250 countries, and over 6 billion people. Every one of these 6 billion people is from a variety of places with their own unique beliefs and cultures. This means there are so many different experiences waiting for you worldwide. Traveling the world helps open your mind to new ideas and see things differently while giving you a new perspective on life.

2. Learn a New Language

There are over 6500 spoken languages in the world today. You could take some time to learn one of them. There are so many benefits to learning a new language, as it could help to improve your communication skills and allow you to learn about other cultures quickly. It will surely be a great accomplishment if you are bilingual or multilingual.

3. Try a New Profession

It never hurts to try something new, and what could feel better than trying a new profession? There are a lot of upsides to doing something new professionally. You can encounter new experiences, meet new people, and solve new problems. It also helps to expand your knowledge.

4. Work On Your Health Goals

We all have our own health goals. It might be healthy eating, exercising, or weight loss. Working towards achieving this goal has excellent benefits and can also help to give you a sense of fulfillment.

5. Partake in a Race

Participate in a race just for the sake of trying something new. It could be a long-distance race like a Marathon or even a triathlon. It’s not just about the race but the preparation for the race. It takes a lot of physical and mental training to partake in such races, and this training could be beneficial to you.

6. Play a New Sport

You could partake in a sport you have never done, like Tennis, Volleyball or Golf. Partaking in sports helps to keep you fit and healthy.

7. Visit the Ocean

As humans, we spend the majority of our lifetime on land. You could try out something new for a change. You could explore the ocean by scuba diving or snorkeling. You could experience some aquatic life.

8. Try Skiing

Skiing is another fun sport you can try. The experience is something worth remembering. Skiing might seem easy, but you might want to take some lessons before trying it on.

9. Ride a Horse

Another fun thing to add to your bucket list would be to go horseback riding. It is an excellent hobby that can be very relaxing. You could end up forming a very emotional bond with a horse.

10. Go Sky Diving

Sky diving can entertain, excite your heart, and fire your adrenaline. It is something to experience.

11. Try Surfing

Surfing is a fun water sport, and it can be pretty straightforward. All you need is beach clothes, a surfboard, and some enthusiasm. Once you get these, you can go to the beach and catch some waves.

12. Try Kite Surfing

Is surfing a little too easy? Then you can try kite surfing. Kite surfing involves using a kite to harness the power of the wind for surfing the waves or snow. It can be enjoyable with a lot of practice.

13. Try Para Sailing

This is another type of kiting activity where a parachute or a canopy is attached to the vehicle, and the user is pulled by the vehicle and launched into the air. Parasailing is just a more extreme version of kite surfing and can be fun.

14. Join an Exploration Team 

An excellent thing to do would be to join an exploration team and travel with them worldwide. You could visit the wonders of the world together, climb Mount Everest, or visit the North Pole.

15. Try Ziplining

Ziplining is a recreational activity that’s action-packed and exhilarating. It involves going across some distance in the air with a zip cable and a belt or seat. It can be entertaining.

16. Try getting a Tattoo

Getting a tattoo might not make the top of the list, but you might want to try it. Some “body arts” can capture a memory and look beautiful at the same time. Tattoos can be a bit painful and might last a long time, so you have to choose something that will make you smile when you look at it.

17. Try an Extreme Sport

You could try out an extreme sport. Extreme sports can be a little scary sometimes and fierce, but they can be fun and heart-racing. An extreme sport to try includes skydiving or paragliding.

18. Try Indoor Skydiving

Indoor skydiving is a recreational sport that allows humans to experience flying without a plane or a parachute. It’s just like skydiving without the risk of a failing shoot. It’s a wonderful experience all the same.

19. Go Hot Air Ballooning

Hot air ballooning is another fun activity that can help you relax and see the world in another light and perspective. You could even go with someone, maybe a romantic interest. It can be an exciting activity.

20. Go Sailing

A huge amount of people have never tried sailing. It is a very relaxing activity that fills you with new experiences. It is worth trying.

21. Watch a Rodeo

Watching the rodeo can also be fun. If you feel like getting in on the action, you can ride a mechanical bull. They can be found in different bars, depending on where you live.

22. Go on a Safari

You could go on a mini-vacation to see some wildlife, maybe somewhere in India or Nigeria. Or you could visit a wildlife reserve.

23. Have a Spa Day

Booking a spa day and having your body taken care of is something you want to add to your bucket list because you deserve it.

24. Do Some Farm Chores

Have you ever wondered what it’s like to work at a farm and those farm chores? Some chores are milking a cow or shearing the sheep. You could try that out and see just how it goes.

25. Go Fishing with a Friend

Fishing can be a fun bonding activity to help you bond with friends and family. Why not try it and go on a fishing trip with someone you’d like to connect with?

26. Climb Mount Everest

Mount Everest is the tallest mountain on the planet. Climbing would be an accomplishment.

27. Learn to Play Chess

Learning chess sharpens your strategic thinking and is a fun way to challenge yourself. You’ll not only enjoy the thrill of the game, but you’ll also improve your mental agility.

28. Start and Grow a YouTube Channel

Starting a YouTube channel allows you to share your passion and connect with like-minded people. As your channel grows, you’ll enjoy the satisfaction of creating content that resonates with others. It’s also a fantastic way to unleash your creativity.

29. Reconcile Misunderstandings 

Mending misunderstandings can bring renewed warmth to your relationships. It’s an emotional cleanse that leaves you feeling lighter and happier. You grow wiser and gain a deeper understanding of the people around you.

30. Begin a Meditation Routine

Starting a meditation routine offers a sense of calm and balance that filters into every aspect of your life. You’ll notice improved focus and reduced stress. It’s also an empowering way to gain control over your thoughts.

31. Do Something Touching for Someone

Performing a heartfelt act for another person enriches your own life as well. It builds a bridge of compassion and understanding. This simple act often creates a ripple effect, inspiring kindness in others.

32. Become a Mentor to Somebody

Taking the time to mentor someone isn’t just beneficial for them; it enriches your life, too. This experience allows you to share your wisdom while learning from your mentee’s fresh perspectives. It’s a two-way street of growth and meaningful connections.

33. Chase Your Passion 

Chasing your passion might feel like a giant leap, but it’s one you won’t regret. It brings a unique kind of fulfillment and joy to your life. The journey will introduce you to amazing people and opportunities you never knew existed.

34. Start a Business

Starting a business is not just about profit; it’s about creating value in the world. You’ll learn more about leadership, teamwork, and resilience than you ever thought possible.

35. Try Volunteering

Volunteering enriches your soul and broadens your perspective. The act of giving back is often returned tenfold in the joy you receive. Plus, you’ll meet amazing people along the way.

36. Try Whale Watching 

Whale watching offers an unforgettable encounter with nature’s giants. You’ll feel a rush of excitement the moment you spot a spray of water from a blowhole. These majestic creatures provide a sense of wonder long after the trip ends.

37. Start a Blog

Starting a blog allows you to share your thoughts, interests, or expertise with a broader audience. The process is rewarding in itself, giving you a platform for self-expression. Over time, you can attract a community of readers who resonate with your content.

38. Find Love

Finding love adds a layer of richness and emotional connection to life. It’s not just about romantic dinners and strolls in the park; it’s a partnership that offers mutual support and growth. The journey to love may be filled with ups and downs, but the reward makes it worthwhile.

39. Write a Song 

Creating your song is a direct channel for self-expression. With every note and lyric, you explore your inner world and let others see a piece of it. Whether you’re musically trained or not, the emotional payoff is immeasurable.

40. Learn to Paint

Picking up a brush and dabbing it into paint unlocks a world of creativity. Even if you’re a beginner, the joy of transforming a blank canvas is indescribable. 

41. Write a Book

Putting pen to paper and creating a world out of words is a fulfilling experience. You might surprise yourself with the stories you have within you. It could be fiction, non-fiction, or even poetry; each type offers a unique journey.

42. Act in a Play

Stepping onto the stage might seem intimidating, but the thrill is unparalleled. You’ll explore new facets of yourself as you embody a character. Plus, the applause at the end is a moment you’ll never forget.

43. Motivate Someone

Helping someone achieve their goals gives you a unique sense of fulfillment. You get to be part of their success story, even in a small way. It’s a win-win situation; you uplift someone else while enriching your life.

44. See a Movie at the Cinema

There’s something special about watching a film on the big screen. The collective gasps, laughs, and even tears make the experience uniquely communal. Plus, the popcorn always tastes better there.

45. Host a Game Night With Friends

Hosting a game night offers the perfect blend of competition and camaraderie. The laughter, the banter, and the occasional playful argument create an atmosphere that’s hard to beat. It also gives you an excuse to break out those board games collecting dust on your shelf.

46. Set a Record in the Guinness Book of Records

Securing a spot in the Guinness Book of Records leaves a mark that you were the best at something, even for a moment. The journey toward setting a record offers bragging rights and an incredible experience. Make sure you pick something that aligns with your skills and passion for maximum enjoyment.

47. Create a Passive Income

A steady passive income allows you to focus on other passions without worrying about money. Research various streams, such as investments or rental properties, to see what most appeals to you. It’ll require initial effort, but the payoff will free up your time and resources in the long run.

48. Board a Private Jet

Stepping onto a private jet offers an unrivaled sense of luxury and exclusivity. Consider chartering a flight for a special occasion or pooling resources with friends. You’ll skip the long lines and get a taste of the high-flying life.

49. Meet a Famous Person

Rubbing elbows with a celebrity brings an undeniable thrill. Whether it’s at a book signing, charity event, or backstage at a concert, the memory will surely stick with you. Capture the moment with a photo to cherish for years to come.

50. Write a Book

Putting your thoughts into words and publishing them for the world to see is an incredible achievement. Whether fiction, autobiography, or self-help, your book could impact someone’s life meaningfully. And the sense of accomplishment you’ll feel is immeasurable.

These were just a few ideas for adding to your bucket list. There are hundreds of things that you can do. Take some time to pick a few and get started!

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Jason Butler is the owner of My Money Chronicles, a website where he discusses personal finance, side hustles, travel, and more. Jason is from Atlanta, Georgia. He graduated from Savannah State University with his BA in Marketing. Jason has been featured in Forbes, Discover, and Investopedia.