Most of us have a bucket list of things we want to do throughout our lives. This typically involves things we want to do or places we want to see, but they can be so much more than a checklist. Bucket lists can be an exceptional way to connect with ourselves, and help others. Here are 9 ideas you can put on your bucket list that are good for the soul.
1. Participate in the 100 Happy Days Challenge.
This is a challenge that really will make you think of all the things that make you happy. It will show you that not just the big things in life make us happy, but so do the small things. In a world where media continues to portray the bad in life, this challenge will help to turn your attitude and mindset around.
2. Pay for a stranger's meal.
This is a wonderful way for you to feel good and help your fellow neighbor. I cannot tell you how heartwarming and fulfilling it feels to pay for one's meal. The one time my friend and I saw a little old gentleman eating dinner and he was all alone, holding his wife's wedding ring as he ate. We paid for his dinner and still happened to be in the restaurant when his server told him a "little birdie" paid for his meal. To see his gratitude, and the smile on his face was priceless.
3. Volunteer.
Whether you donate 1 hour or 100 hours, volunteering is a great way to give back to your community and yet another way to feel just how appreciated your time is. When you find time to volunteer with an organization that is meaningful to you, you'll realize just how much other's appreciate the time you sacrifice to help them.
4. Travel.
Whether you are one who wants to travel the world or are one to stay home, you should at least travel to one place in the world. Get out of your comfort zone and see another part of the world. You will have a better awareness and a greater appreciation for the world in which we live.
5. Get outside.
You can hike, bike, swim, go on a picnic or even sit outside of your house. Just getting outside can help us to connect with nature and is a perfect way to release stress. Getting outside with friends can make the time even better!
6. Spend an entire day with your family.
As we grow older everyone starts to have their own busy schedules, and we can sometimes go days without having the whole family in the room. Setting aside a day to just spend with family is a great way remember how crucial your family is in life. It'll help to strengthen your relationships, and even reduce the chance of tensions among family members.
7. Do something thoughtful for someone out of the blue.
One of the best things to do is something that is out of the blue. I tend to bake desserts to give my friends whenever I have free time. There's no occasion or no request, it's simply a gesture made with love. Just knowing how happy you'll make someone with a small, spur of the moment, an act of kindness can be one of the greatest feelings.
8. Read a book.
Whether you love to read or hate to read, find a book that looks at least semi-interesting and start reading. Books are such a great way to relax after a long day, and can take you to an alternate world; leaving your worries behind.
9. Take a day off(line).
Technology is great and the advancements that are continuously being made are impeccable, but the fact remains that we never power down. I'm not going to lie, I am always on my phone, but I make it a priority to turn off my phone and stay off of it during vacations. If you take at least one day to get offline and power down, you will be amazed at how beneficial it can be. It can release stress, force you to be creative as to how to spend the day, and it can make you feel free.
