Pulling out the Bucket List

"You are never to old to set a new goal or to dream a new dream." T.S.Elliot

While listening to NPR several weeks ago, I heard an interview with a movie star who had just turned forty years old.  The radio host asked her how she was coping with that monumental age transition.  She said she was having a hard time dealing with it, and frankly having a bit of a meltdown over it.  “Really,” the announcer said, “explain about the meltdown.”  “Oh you know,” she responded slowly, “It is just a difficult time for me as I reflect on my life and all these dreams I had for myself."  "'Had' for yourself?" the interviewer asked,  "Yes, 'had' for myself, and now that I’ve turned forty," the movie star continued, "I see that those dreams and goals will never happen.” The announcer sounded confused, “So, like what can no longer happen?”   She said, “For example, I have to come to terms with the reality that I never will learn to play the piano, and I never will learn to speak French…it’s just hard for me to face that”…..

Wow, are you kidding me?  She’s turning forty and ready to pack it in.  Is that just a Hollywood thing, or do 'real life' folks actually think like that when they hit a certain age?  I have to tell you that when I turned sixty, it made me more determined than ever to ‘go for it’ in my life. I’m hoping I’ll have that same feeling when I turn eighty, or for that matter, ninety....  And I hope that you, no matter what your age, continue to dream new dreams for yourself and have a hefty bucket list 'going on' to prove it.

Since we have just seen the passing of another year, what better time than now to pull out the bucket list and reflect on the unfinished projects, goals and dreams for our lifetime.  No doubt most of you have already created a bucket list, for yourself,  but if you haven’t done it yet…then begin.  Are there places you want to go, people you want to me meet, and projects you want to finish, (or begin)? and yes ... new languages you want to speak and new instruments you want to play?

For those of you who are visual learners, why not make yourself an inspiration board. Cut out pictures and other visual reminders of the goals and dreams you have for your life.  Include some of your favorite motivational quotes as well. The more we are able to visualize our dreams and goals, the more likely we are to do it...no matter what your age!

Post your thoughts on the blog or email me, Karen,
at: smallsteps4bigresults@yahoo.com