by Carol Gioia

Created on: January 12, 2009   Last Updated: July 31, 2010

Creating a life list is an ideal way to ensure that all your dreams and ambitions might eventually be realized. Establishing a list of potential aspirations decreases the possibility that you might lose focus and veer off the path to your ultimate goals.

The concept of a "life list" has been around for a long time. Individuals reach a point in their lives when they want to see their dreams realized. They  begin to think in terms of how short life is and what they want to accomplish before they leave this world. 

Since the release of the popular movie "Bucket List" starring Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman, there has been revived enthusiasm for creating a life list containing items to be achieved or conquered before "kicking the bucket."  Some items on the list might be of great importance and others might be frivolous.  Big or small, a life list reflects your heart's desires.

How do you guarantee that your life list is not just a "wish list," but contains truly attainable goals?

* Start by becoming acquainted with yourself

Often we let our lives get out of control by allowing life to control us. Sit down and make a list of your attributes, accomplishments and successes. By doing this, you will readily see what you have achieved and what aspirations are missing from the list. Those missing items are the beginning of creating a "life list." Things you always dreamed about, but never got around to doing.

* Set focused goals

Statements such as, "I want to be a millionaire," are too broad, generic and easily discouraging. Focusing in with statements like, "By the time I am 40, I want to have acquired enough wealth to be financially independent," gives an individual a specific goal for which to strive.

* Set a plan of action

For each item on your life list, decide what steps must be taken to reach the goal. If the desire is to acquire wealth by the age of 40, then incremental planning, such as getting an education, moving up the ladder in a stable career and implementing a financial investment and savings plan is necessary.

* Set a deadline

If your objective is to lose weight and become physically fit, decide what length of time is required to achieve this goal. If a year is realistic, have monthly "sub-list" criteria for charting progress and insuring the objective will be achieved. Perhaps joining a health and exercise gym, or employing a professional dietician will be part of the plan of action and included on the sub-list.

* Be realistic and flexible

A life list created in your twenties might no longer be applicable in your forties. Be prepared to update and change your life list as you change. If you break a leg, the aspiration to climb Mt. Everest will have to be put on hold until you heal. Flexibility is the key to any satisfying life plan.

Deciding what you want out of your life and creating a "life list" will help you achieve your dreams and garner fulfilling experiences along the way to reaching your ultimate goals.

"Part of success is preparation on purpose"  (Jim Rohn)

Learn more about this author, Carol Gioia.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.