Whether you have already given up on your New Year’s Resolutions or not, here is an even more fun activity I learned about in an article by Shine – write a Reverse Bucket List.
Instead of writing a list of amazing things that you “hope” to do for the rest of your life, make a list of all the amazing things you have ALREADY done – either significant accomplishments or fabulous experiences.
How about this – start with making a Reverse Bucket List Top Ten just for 2017. Then make an All Time Reverse Bucket List of your Top 25. Then do this every year – your new annual list and an updated Top 25 if new accomplishments/experiences supplant older ones.
Doesn’t that seem like more fun that writing a list of things you “should” do for the next year?
Once you make your All Time and Annual lists, take some time to relive the experiences, appreciate your accomplishments, and savor the memories. Appreciate the opportunities that you have had to do these things and take some time to be thankful for them.
Research (Sood, Fredrickson, and others), shows that people who take the time to experience and express Gratitude are happier and more productive. They also have overall better health, including a stronger immune system and lower blood pressure.
It sounds like you better start working on that Reverse Bucket List right now!
Get out your calendar to remind you of what you have done in the past year or more. Dig through old photos to remind yourself of years further back or check old Facebook posts. Ask friends and family to help brainstorm your All Time list if that is more helpful.
Certainly, New Year’s Resolutions (or better, in my opinion – Goals) have their place. But the role of a Reverse Bucket List sounds like a great complement to your goals and a way to keep your positive energy moving you forward!
