Currently I am re-reading the book The Energy of Money by Maria
Newmenth, PhD. It’s been years since I have read this book, and I am
savouring it. It’s filled with self help reflective homework
exercises which I love. I want to share one with you:
Write out a bucket list.
Everything you want to do in this lifetime. This include things like
places you vow to travel to, degrees or certificates you want to earn,
dream jobs you want to attain, or creativity bench marks. After you
have created this list, write out the reasons why you want to attain
these goals. For example “Write a best selling novel”, the reason
behind this may be “to be recognized as an author.” Or “travel to the
pyramids of Egypt,” the essence behind this is “to be an adventurer.”
Next, imagine it is your 85th birthday. Everyone you love is there
honoring you. What are the accolades you want to hear about yourself?
What have you accomplished? Who were you as a person?
Now look at both of these lists, are there themes that are repeated?
What does this say about you? Are you living your life by these
principles? If yes, how so? If not, why not?
It was interesting doing this exercise, I have previously created a
bucket list (and actually laminated it on index cards), but this time
doing a bucket list, it was different. I realized my goals were my
simple and day to day. I have achieved many of my far off dreams.
There was a recognition of the everyday life I want to live versus the
one off things to check off a list. In addition, there was a
realization of how I need to continue to check in if I am living an
intentional life based on my current values.
This was an incredible exercise, and I encourage you to challenge
yourself and write out your future !
It Only Takes A Smile 