Bucketlist Revisited: What’s Changed, What’s Achieved, and What’s Next

Back in 2011, when I started my blog, my goal was to document my life journey, share what I’ve learned, offer advice, and connect with others. My very first blog post featured my bucketlist—a fun way to introduce myself and my dreams to readers. Looking back, it’s fascinating to see how my aspirations have evolved over time.

The Importance of a Bucketlist

A bucketlist serves as a powerful motivator, helping us visualize our goals and take steps toward achieving them. Studies show that people who write down their goals are 42% more likely to accomplish them. It’s not just about big dreams—it’s about intentionally shaping the life you want.

Over time, our goals change. Some things we once dreamed of may no longer fit our lifestyle or interests, while new desires emerge based on our growth and experiences. Life is a constant evolution, and so is the list of things we want to achieve.

My 2011 Bucketlist: Achievements & Changes

Here’s a look at my original bucketlist, along with updates on what I’ve accomplished, removed, or still have left to tackle.

2011 Bucketlist

• Earn my Master’s degree ❌ Removed: My experience, certifications, and hands-on work in marketing, blogging, and photography have provided immense value without needing a Master’s degree.
• Have my poems published ✅ In Progress: I wrote poetry constantly growing up but unintentionally stopped about a decade ago. Now, I’m revisiting old poems and writing new ones with the goal of publishing them.
• Learn basic ASL ❌ Adjusted: I’d still love to know some basic signs but recognize that without regular use, it’s easy to forget.
• Trace my family history ✅ Done: My cousin took on this project and traced our lineage back to the Civil War. While interesting, my focus is more on where I am now rather than distant ancestry.
• Travel the country ✅ Ongoing: Since 2011, I’ve traveled to new states including Utah, New Mexico, Wyoming, South Dakota, North Dakota, Nebraska, Colorado, California, Tennessee, Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Connecticut. I also honeymooned in Jamaica in 2016.
• Travel the world ✅ Still on my list! I’ve refined my destinations to Ireland, England, Italy, and Spain.
• Go skydiving ❌ Not yet: I planned to in Colorado, but plans fell through. Still a goal!
• Learn to salsa ❌ Removed: No idea why I put this on my list.
• Run at least a half marathon ❌ Removed: My knee issues make this unrealistic.
• Take a bike tour through wine country ❌ Removed: I don’t really drink anymore, and wine has never been my thing, so this no longer interests me.
• Go parasailing ✅ Done: Went parasailing in OCMD, plus checked off jet skiing too!
• Go horseback riding along the beach ❌ Adjusted: I’ve gone horseback riding, just not on the beach. The original goal was likely inspired by a movie, so I’m letting that specific detail go.
• Take Jujitsu or self-defense classes ❌ Adjusted: I attended a self-defense class at my fitness center, but I’m looking into Krav Maga or another form of self-defense training.
• Learn to scuba dive ❌ Not yet, but I did go snorkeling in Jamaica, which made me even more eager to try scuba diving.
• Ride in a hot air balloon ❌ Still on my list!
• Island hop in the Caribbean ❌ Adjusted: Now, I’d rather island-hop in Hawaii.
• Climb the Statue of Liberty ❌ Still a goal!
• Own a home ✅ Done: I’ve owned three homes in three different states and sold two within six years. A stressful but rewarding experience.
• Get married and start a family ✅ Done: I’m a proud wife and mom to two amazing kids!

What’s New on My Bucketlist?

As I’ve grown, my interests and priorities have shifted. Here are a few new additions to my bucketlist:

• Write a children’s book
• See the Northern Lights
• Visit Israel
• Travel to Niagara Falls

Check out my updated bucket list below for exciting ideas and inspiration. Download it and let it help guide you toward your own goals.

A Journey of Growth

Looking back at my 2011 bucketlist, it’s clear how much I’ve grown. Some dreams became reality, others shifted, and new ones emerged. That’s the beauty of life—we evolve, and so do our goals. A bucketlist isn’t about checking off every item; it’s about creating experiences that align with who we are and who we’re becoming.

What’s on your bucketlist? Have your goals changed over the years? I’d love to hear about your journey!