by Tammie Kuhn

Created on: January 09, 2009   Last Updated: January 15, 2009

All of us have an idea of the things we want to do before we die. Some are passing fancies, others are endeavors which we really wish to undertake. The first step toward creating a "bucket list" is to determine those things which truly matter most. Take some time everyday to think about the goals you wish to achieve in your lifetime. You needn't write them all in one sitting, the important thing is to commit your desires to paper. When you are defining your goals, don't forget to list prerequisites for attaining certain goals. An example of this would be that you wish to dive on the Great Barrier Reef in Australia. If you are not already a scuba diver, you would include the goal of attaining your dive certification. These interim goals are just as important as the final ones, you need them to stay focused and to help keep you motivated. There is tremendous satisfaction in seeing items on your list being completed.

Once your list has been established, define each goal clearly. Ask yourself "what do I have to do in order to attain this goal?" Don't confine yourself to your world as it is today, think about your future self as well - 5, 10, and even 15 years down the road. Antoine de Saint-Exupery said "A goal without a plan is just a wish." He was right; the next step is to create a workable plan for each goal. Create action items for each of your goals. Once you have your well defined goals and action items, you are ready to take the next step, achieving them.

There are two ways to work your bucket list plan. If you are a "big picture" personality, keep your bucket list handy, where you will be sure to see it everyday. At least once a week, review your list. Think about what you have done, and what you can do in the short term to achieve your goal. If you are more task-oriented, looking at the entire list frequently can be overwhelming. Instead, pick one or two goals and commit time at least once a month toward achieving them.

Remember that a bucket list contains items you wish to achieve in a lifetime. You won't cross off all of your goals overnight. Don't be frustrated by a lack of progress; there will be times that you simply cannot work on your list. You also need to look at your list as a fluid document, and reassess it from time to time, as you grow, your list can and will change.

Always remember that your list is just that - yours. There is no right or wrong way to work your list, the important thing is to commit to your action plan; only then will you achieve your goals.

Learn more about this author, Tammie Kuhn.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.