Starting My First Bucket List

The Next Chapter After My Mini-List

About two years after writing my Mini-Bucket List, I realized I was ready for more. That first little list gave me confidence, clarity, and courage. It was the spark that helped me dream bigger.

But starting my first real bucket list wasn’t easy. I struggled at first—where do you begin when the possibilities feel endless?

My Motto: Live Life to the Fullest

One morning, it hit me: I wasn’t “waiting for someday” anymore. I was already in that stage of life I used to think was far off. So I adopted a new motto: Live Life to the Fullest.

That meant no more waiting for the perfect time to chase adventure or face fears. It was time to expand my list.

Warrior Dash Obstacle

My First Expanded Bucket List

Here’s what I added when I created my first bigger list:

• Drive through the Redwood Forest 

• Canoe the Boundary Waters in Minnesota 

• Visit a “Dude Ranch” in Wyoming (I ended up living in Wyoming for almost 3 years)

• Rock crawl the Rubicon Trail (achieved July 2020)

• Attend a Murder Mystery Dinner (achieved in 2024)

• Climb a Volcano in Hawaii 

• Revisit Yellowstone  (done June 2023)

• Camp in the Grand Canyon  (done October 2022)

• Go on a Treasure Hunt 

• Go Dancing (this is ongoing)

• Find a job I love (achieved!)

• Release my past (achieved 2025)

What I Learned Expanding My List

• Small goals matter: Karaoke, trying new restaurants, and bowling made my list feel fun and achievable.

• Adventure fuels me: Jeep off-roading, hiking, and travel kept showing up—clearly part of who I am.

• Growth is ongoing: Every time I complete a goal, I see more clearly what matters most.

Looking Back, Looking Forward

That first expansion was just the beginning. My bucket list has continued to evolve, and today it lives on my How to Create a Bucket List page where I track all my goals, dreams, and completed adventures.

If you’re starting your own list, I recommend beginning where I did—with a Mini-Bucket List. Then, as you grow, let your list grow too.

FAQ: Starting Your First Bucket List

Q: How did you move from a mini-bucket list to a full one?
A: I started small, gained confidence, and then expanded my list into travel, personal growth, and Jeep adventures.

Q: What kinds of goals should I include?
A: Mix it up! Include adventures, self-growth, fun hobbies, and experiences that connect with family and friends.

Q: Do I have to finish everything on my list?
A: No—it’s about the journey, not checking boxes. Some items will drop off, others will change, and that’s okay.

Closing Thought

Your first bucket list doesn’t have to be perfect. It just has to be yours. Start small, expand when you’re ready, and let your list reflect the life you want to live.

👉 Begin here: Mini-Bucket List → Starting My First Bucket List → Bucket List Guide