How to use a bucket List to take your summer from fine to fantastic
Dying to try a new activity or two, but too busy to get to it? As it would happen, the lazy, hazy days of summer are the perfect time of the year to finally tackle some of those goals. With plenty of freed up timeslots, and travel friendly weather, the sunniest season is ideal for fun, interesting, and even productive gratification. So get excited about the possibilities and refuse to neglect your summer daydreams. Follow through on your intentions by creating a summer bucket list.
The phrase “bucket list” originally referred to a list of things you must do during your lifetime—before you kicked the bucket—and was popularized by the Rob Reiner movie of the same name. The term has evolved to mean something closer to things to do before a certain date, in this case, by the end of summer.
Creating a bucket list not only helps you evaluate and appreciate the things you haven’t done, it compels you to do them immediately. As the old adage goes, what you write down gets done. In that spirit, we have compiled a few ideas to get your creative juices flowing and your pens scribbling on your very own list.
1. Finish something you’ve already started.
When creating a bucket list the aim has traditionally been to try new things, but completing something unfinished can be just as rewarding. With a few weeks left in the summer you can continue to learn a language, restore the garage, or plant your dream garden. No matter what incomplete project you’ve stored away, finishing it will make you both proud and relieved.
2. Do something active.
Bucket list activities don’t have to be extreme (of course, they certainly can be). If bungee jumping and skydiving aren’t your thing, perhaps hiking a local trail is, or maybe camping with loved ones near the nearest lake. Run (or even walk) for charity. Do something that you’ll personally enjoy. Whether it’s a trip across country or down the street, make it yours.
3. Overcome a fear through immersion.
Always wanted to ascend the Eiffel tower but too afraid to look down? Love traveling, but hate flying? The summer is a great time to overcoming debilitating phobias. Immerse yourself in the activities that challenge your fears. Scared of heights? Tour a skyscraper or visit the Grand Canyon. Scared of water? Take swimming lessons, you’ll learn to love it. Not only will you open up doors for yourself, you’ll have a great time doing it.
4. Maximize your summer weekend.
Ensure a great weekend by planning activities early in the week. Seek out fun in advance and get excited about it during the week. By the time Saturday hits, you’ll be exceptionally prepared and roaring to go. For good ideas on how to maximize your summer weekend, visit GetButtonedUp.com.
5. Look up and reserve free activities.
Just because you’re low on funds doesn’t mean that you can’t enjoy experiences that are both rewarding and inexpensive. You may be surprised at how many free activities there are this time of year – from concerts to food and wine tastings. Check on community and local government sites to see what’s going on for free in your neck of the woods.
6. Enter with a confident mindset and don’t let failure discourage you.
Confidence is the key to any bucket list. Don’t second guess yourself. Whether planning to run a 5K for charity, or preparing to cook foreign cuisine, if you lack confidence the process will become a disaster. One way to boost confidence is to choose something that you are good at and see if there is a contest you can enter. You may be surprised with how well you do and you’ll learn a few things along the way. {image via: Modern Hepburn}
