We only have one life and it is our duty to make the most of it. We can grasp life with both hands and squeeze all the good stuff out of it or we can sit on the sidelines and watch it happen. Here is my list of the things to do while you're young. Age is no barrier to any of them and many of these are equally fabulous when you're older, but do them sooner and you have time for more things later.
p.s. I'm not including any specific travel adventures/destinations because you need a separate bucket list for that!
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Pursue Your Passion
Whether you want to be a life coach, a singer, or have another dream, follow it. There are more chances of getting it when you're still young.
Life is incredibly rich with possibilities, and your youth presents the perfect canvas for painting your future with broad strokes of ambition and energy. Embrace the vibrancy of your younger years to take risks, try new things, and possibly make a few mistakes along the way – it's all part of the process. Striving for your dreams now means you'll never be plagued by the 'what-ifs.' Dive head-on into the fields that stir your soul, be it arts, sciences, sports, or humanitarian work. Even if your interests evolve, your early pursuit will always be a cornerstone of your personal narrative and growth.
Be a Mentor
Help someone learn something and try to be a volunteer mentor to experience a rewarding time in your life.
Frequently asked questions
Keeping track can be fun! You can use a journal, a digital app, or even create a vision board with pictures. Ticking off completed items is so satisfying and motivates you to keep going.
Absolutely not! It's never too late to start. Being a young adult is actually a perfect time because you might have a better sense of what really excites you. Just dive in and start ticking off those dreams!
Great question! Meaningful things could be volunteering for a cause you're passionate about, mastering a new skill, like a language or an instrument, or spending quality time with family. It’s all about enriching your life.
Oh, there are so many wild ideas! You could try skydiving, backpacking solo in another country, learning to surf, or even going on a spontaneous road trip with friends. The crazier, the better, right?
Having a bucket list while young is super exciting! It's a way to set fun goals and make the most out of your youthful energy and freedom. Plus, it helps you gather amazing experiences and memories.
Float Away in a Hot-Air Balloon
See the world from a new angle.
Setup a Business
Starting a business and making it work is among the most rewarding things to do. Try it in your youth to have a secure future.
Learn to Sing
Don't just learn how to do it but push yourself to sing to an audience.
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Do Volunteer Work
A perfect way to give something back to the world you live in.
Have Your Portrait Painted
A painting captures your youth in a way no photograph can.
Invest in a timeless piece of art by sitting for a talented artist. It’s a magical experience that allows you to engage with the creative process and witness a likeness of yourself emerge on canvas. Unlike a digital snapshot, a painted portrait is an heirloom that represents a piece of personal history. Imagine the stories it will tell, the conversations it will inspire, and the legacy it will leave behind. Plus, it's a wonderful way to celebrate your unique beauty and support the arts at the same time. Whether it's a classic oil painting or a contemporary watercolor, having your portrait painted is a fusion of tradition and self-expression.
Travel Somewhere New Every Year
See the world. Don’t just stick to your home country.
Ride a Horse
Go horseback riding to take a break from your busy life and unwind for a while.
Write a Love Letter
If you have no special person in your life send a Valentine's Card instead.
Go Skinny Dipping
Experience the total freedom of no clothes.
Skinny dipping is the ultimate daring adventure that connects you with nature and your own body in the most intimate way. Feel the cool touch of water against your skin and let go of any inhibitions. Whether it's a secluded lake at sunset or a moonlit ocean, make sure it's a safe and private setting. Embrace the exhilarating thrill as you dive into the unknown, your laughter and splashes the only sound. This cheeky escapade isn't just about being daring—it's about embracing life with a joyful abandon that you'll reminisce about in years to come.
Run Barefoot
It may seem an ordinary thing to do, but the sensations of running barefoot will make you feel great. It's about making life less complicated and it makes you feel happy.
Witness a Solar Eclipse
Don’t miss the opportunity to experience this magical natural phenomenon when the sun goes out of your sight for a few minutes.
Wake up Early to Catch the Sunrise
Both sunrises and sunsets are some of the gifts you get every day yet so many of us don't appreciate it. It's time you make a move and actually experience the moment.
Dance in the Rain
Shed all inhibitions and play or dance barefoot in the rain to celebrate life.
Get a Pet
Adopt a pet and take care of all their needs. It is a big commitment and takes a lot of your time, but it is a satisfying experience.
Throw a Party
Yeah, throw a big one. Invite your friends and their friends and socialize with them to have a grand time.
Join a Dating Site
And go on a blind date to see what love has in store for you.
Take a Social Etiquette Class
Join a social etiquette class and learn how to behave properly and create great first impressions.
Take the Role of a Matchmaker
Get up, take charge of things, and help your single friends find lovely partners. They will thank you for this.
Buy a Lottery Ticket
You have to be in it to win it.
Get a New Degree
Even if you already have a degree and call yourself a well-qualified individual, it will still feel great to get another degree in a different field. It is a big commitment but will be a fulfilling experience.
Pursuing further education not only diversifies your expertise but also opens up a plethora of opportunities for personal growth and career development. Whether you're delving into a passion or enhancing your professional skill set, the journey of learning never gets old. Plus, imagine the pride when you display that shiny new diploma on your wall. It's not just about academic achievements; it's about challenging yourself, meeting like-minded peers, and potentially changing your career trajectory. Just remember, balancing studies with your existing responsibilities can be tough, but the rewards are truly worth the effort.
Take a Wine Appreciation Class
Learn wine etiquette and know how to hold the glass and celebrate it with your friends.
Learn to Play a Musical Instrument
Fulfill your dream of learning how to play the violin, guitar, or any other musical instrument.
Taking up a musical instrument provides numerous benefits — it enhances cognitive abilities, improves hand-eye coordination, and offers a creative outlet that enriches your life. Whether it's strumming the guitar, coaxing melodies from a piano, or mastering the intricacies of the flute, the journey of musical discovery can be immensely fulfilling. And don't let age be a barrier; music is a universal language that transcends all. So, find a local class, watch online tutorials, or even app-based lessons to start your musical adventure. The joy of playing your favorite tunes is an experience like no other.
Try a Martial Art
Martial arts will teach you how to defend yourself in desperate situations. It also improves your honor, self-confidence, perseverance, and self-discipline.
Learn to Dance
Opt for ballroom dancing or master another dance form to feel free and to stay fit.
Go Backpacking
Backpacking is an outstanding way to enjoy international destinations at a reasonably low cost.
Backpacking offers the perfect blend of adventure, freedom, and cultural immersion. With just a map and a backpack, you set off to explore bustling cities, serene countryside, or even hidden beaches. This travel style encourages spontaneity and allows you to connect with locals, sample authentic cuisines, and perhaps even pick up new languages along the way. Whether you venture solo or with companions, the experiences gleaned from backpacking stay with you forever, shaping your perspective of the world and of yourself. Plus, the stories you collect become your most treasured souvenirs, far outshining any trinket.
Take a Bike Trip
Get your bike out and go on a road trip. You can drive your car, but it feels outstanding to be on a bike. Try it!
Publish Your Book
You know you can write, so why not take it a step ahead and publish your own book? The perfect time to do it is now
Speak in Front of a Lot of People
It seems easy but it will be a test of your nerves because you have to overcome your fear of being judged. It's worth trying though and feels great once you're done with it.
Go Stargazing
All you need is a starlit sky and you're good to go. The beauty of the night sky will mesmerize you for sure.
Plant a Tree
Plant it and watch it grow as you grow old. You will love it.
Go to a Music Festival
Be part of the crowd, enjoy the atmos and hear some great music.
Act in a Film
Be a film or TV extra. As well as being fun it will improve your communication skills, self-expressions, and self-confidence.
If you've always fantasized about seeing yourself on the silver screen, even in a blink-and-you'll-miss-it moment, now's your chance to shine. Local casting calls for extras can be found online or in industry publications. Remember, these roles don't usually require any acting experience, making them perfect for beginners. Who knows, you might just get a taste for acting and pursue it further, or at the very least, you'll come away with an entertaining story and a glimpse into the filmmaking process. Plus, it's always a thrill to spot yourself in the background when watching the final cut!
Have Sex in the Shower
Just because ...
... the water adds a slippery challenge, doesn’t mean it can't be exhilarating. Steam things up with your partner as you get intimate in the cozy confines of your shower. The combination of warm water cascading down your bodies and the thrill of the unique setting can make for a memorable experience. Just be sure to focus on safety—use a non-slip mat to prevent any accidents. And why not add some scented body wash into the mix for a sensory delight? The confined space heightens touch and brings you closer in more ways than one.
Learn to Knit
Don't buy it when you can knit something yourself. It will have a huge sentimental value as well and keep you occupied for quite some time.
Give Blood
How good will it feel to know your blood might save a life?
Certainly, the act of donating blood is a powerful gesture of kindness you can contribute to regardless of where you are in life. Imagine the rush of positivity knowing you've made a profound impact on another's existence. Not only are you potentially saving a patient in dire need, but you're also helping to replenish the nation's supply, ensuring that help is available for emergencies, surgeries, and long-term treatments. So, roll up your sleeve, make a difference, and add a heroic dash to your youthful adventures. Plus, you'll even get a free health check-up in the process!
Cook a 10 Course Meal
Throw a dinner party for your friends or family.
Embrace the challenge of culinary artistry and showcase your skills by preparing an exquisite 10-course meal. Let each course be a reflection of creativity and flavor, from delicate amuse-bouche to a sumptuous dessert finale. Personalize each dish with your unique touch, perhaps even incorporating themes or cuisine from different cultures. Not only will this be a memorable gastronomic journey for your guests, but also a rewarding experience that enhances your cooking expertise. Enjoy the camaraderie, the shared stories over each plate, and the satisfaction of fulfilling such a delectable achievement.
Re-Decorate Your Home
Start with your room. Make it an inspirational place to live by using creative furnishing options. Let your creative side take charge.
Re-decorating your home is a great way to express your creativity and make your living space more enjoyable. Whether you live in a small apartment or a large house, there are always ways to make it feel more like home. Start by choosing a color scheme that reflects your personality and style, then add in unique furniture pieces and decor to make the space truly your own. Don't be afraid to mix and match different styles and textures to create a dynamic and visually appealing atmosphere. Not only will this project keep you busy, but it will also give you a sense of accomplishment and pride in your living space.
Spend Some Time Admiring Natural Beauty
Go in the lap of Mother Nature and take a break from shopping malls, high-rise buildings, automobiles, and technology that have plagued our lives.
Take a Spontaneous Trip
To where? Just pack your bags and get going with no itinerary planned. Go with the flow and experience how unpredictable life can be.
Taking a spontaneous trip is not only exciting, but it also allows you to break out of your routine and experience new things. It can be a short road trip to a nearby town or a last-minute flight to a new country. The lack of planning and structure can lead to unexpected adventures and unforgettable memories. Research has shown that traveling can boost creativity, reduce stress, and increase happiness. So why not take advantage of your youth and spontaneity to explore the world? Don't worry about the cost, there are many budget-friendly options for spontaneous trips such as last-minute flight deals and affordable accommodations. Embrace the unknown and see where the journey takes you.
Bake a Cake
Learn if you don't already know how to bake it. Get some recipes from the internet to get started.
Do a Bungee Jump
Or do a tandem parachute jump or something like the Sydney Harbor Bridge Skywalk.
Make a Snow Angel
Take a trip if you don't live where snow falls.
Make a Stand
Join a protest, go on a rally or sign a petition for a cause you believe in. .
Join a protest, go on a rally or sign a petition for a cause you believe in. .
Fly a Kite
Learn how to fly a kite and make it soar.
Send a Message in a Bottle
Include your contact details because you never know - in years to come, someone might find your message.
Imagine scribbling your deepest dreams or a whimsical note, sealing it in a glass sanctuary, and surrendering it to the whims of the ocean. It's a romantic and slightly mysterious adventure straight from a novel. Whether it finds its way to a distant shore or bobs through the waves indefinitely, your bottled note could one day connect you to a stranger in an extraordinary way, sparking curiosity, friendship, or even making the news! It's a charming nod to nostalgia and a testament to the serendipities of fate.
Prepare a Care Package for a Homeless Person
Doing this will give you a greater appreciation of your home and your family.
Sleep under the Stars
Sleeping outdoors keeps you close to nature and helps you unwind in a perfect way.
Buy Yourself Flowers
Such a treat for a small cost - you deserve it.
Go Vegetarian or Vegan
You don't have to do it for life, but doing it for 21 days may convince you to stick to the new lifestyle.
Sightsee Your Home Town
Discover places you never knew about.
Make Origami Cranes
Fold 1,000 of them and give them to someone special to wish them good health and luck.
Learn to Meditate
Take a break from the urban, material-driven, work-driven culture and go on a meditation retreat recharge your batteries.
Overcome Your Biggest Fear
Whether it is fear of spiders, fear of heights, fear of failure, or another fear, it's time to overcome it to be a better person.
Pull an All-nighter
And make it a real all-nighter. Don't go to bed when the sun comes up. Stay awake all night and the whole of the next day until your usual bedtime.
Pulling an all-nighter is a common experience for many young adults, whether it's for studying, partying, or simply enjoying the freedom of staying up all night. However, it's important to note that staying awake for extended periods of time can have negative effects on both physical and mental health. It can lead to exhaustion, impaired cognitive function, and even increase the risk of accidents. It's important to practice responsible all-nighters by staying hydrated, taking breaks, and getting some rest afterwards. It's also worth noting that pulling all-nighters should not be a regular occurrence, as getting enough sleep is crucial for overall well-being.
Bury the Hatchet
It is natural to have conflicts with people, but these conflicts can make life unpleasant. Learn to bury the hatchet and move on with life.
Support a Cause
Do you believe in female empowerment, healthy living, creating a life on your terms, or something else? Support it and raise awareness about it while you're young.
See Cherry Blossoms
Washington? Japan? Your home town? It matters not. Just enjoy.
Do Something Crazy
Make funny faces, draw smileys and stick it to your colleagues' desks, or give free hugs to strangers. Just do something out of your character.
Forget about Something That Makes You Unhappy
It could be a childhood incident, a bad breakup, or any grievance. Learn to let go of things and lead a happy life.
Have a Picnic
It's a perfect way to enjoy the outdoors with your family and friends.
Fly in a Helicopter
Get a helicopter adventure ride and enjoy some amazing views on earth.
Spend Some Money to Fly First Class
Do it just once. Yeah, it can be very expensive, but you will always remember the experience.
Make the First Move
Go on. Do it. You know you want to. Be brave. Take a deep breath.
Join an Intramural Sports Team
You don't have to be an athlete to join in and have fun.
Ride a Roller Coaster
It can be an exhilarating experience if you haven't done it before. And you won't know until you try.
Meet a Celeb
Meet someone you admire and dream of meeting. It could be Barack Obama, Ellen DeGeneres, Oprah Winfrey or an inspirational personality in any field.
Clean out Your Closet and Sell What You Don't Keep
It’s cathartic, it's good for your home and it's brings you some extra cash
Try a Frontline Job
Work as a waiter/waitress, call center staff, cashier, or retail assistant just for the experience.
Dye Your Hair
Go a completely different color to your natural shade. Maybe try a trend like ombré or rainbow - whatever is buzzing,
Splurge on Something
Make it something classic and something that will last for years.
Start a Savings Fund
The sooner you start to save, the better. Save for the future, your retirement, your wedding, a fabulous vacation ... whatever.
Take Your Parents out for Dinner
Picking up the tab one night is an easy way to show your love and appreciation.
Be Kissed in the Rain
Because it really is incredibly romantic.
See a Foreign Language Film
Watch all the way through, reading the subtitles.
Go to a Gallery Opening or Showcase
Get a different perspective on art and enjoy free drinkies and nibbles.
Have Your Fortune Told
Just for fun. Visit a palm reader, tarot card specialist or other type of mystic.
Go to a Costume Party
Or a masquerade ball. Wear an outrageous costume.
Read Shakespeare
Pick a play - not Romeo and Juliet - and read it from beginning to end.
Be in a TV Show Audience
Just don't turn up to Gerry Springer or Jeremy Kyle - you might be dragged on stage!
Read a Book in One Sitting
Grab some snacks and drinks, get cozy and read the book from cover to cover.
Write Your Travel Bucket List
You need this to help with #8
Run a Marathon
It means you will be running race as long as 42.2km. Not easy, but it's something you can do now or never.
Try a New Profession
Apply for your dream job.
Travel Solo
Travel to at least one place on your own, even if it’s just a road trip out to the beach.
Spend a Whole Day Eating Junk Food
Do it without guilt or regret. Do it just once and then go back to your healthy eating and exercise regime.
Say No
Do it! Say no! You know you always say yes when you don’t want to. This time say no.
Learn a New Language
It's never easy and that what makes it exciting and something you must do while young.
Shower under a Waterfall
Do it naked or in a bikini. It will be the most refreshing shower you ever have.
Take a Class
Do something that’s totally out of your element, like improv, golf, or pottery-making.
Craft Your Personal Mission Statement
What is it you want to achieve most in life?
Learn a Strategy Game
Anything goes, be it checkers, chess, Reversi, Mindsweeper or another game that keep your mind running at its full speed.
Dine out Alone
Book a table and enjoy a great meal in a fancy restaurant.
Unplug
Have a digital detox. Leave your device alone, ignore social media, switch off your phone. Can you do it for a whole day? Can you do it for a week?
Give a Surprise
Send a bouquet to your partner at work, cook something nice, or send a simple text message to a loved one to give them a heartfelt surprise.
Ask for a Raise
If you don't ask you don't get. You know your worth - make sure the boss does too.
Do a Random Act of Kindness
You never know when the opportunity will arise but be ready to take it when it comes,
Rent a Convertible
Put the top down, drive fast and feel the wind in your hair.
Fall in Love
Because everyone needs love.
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