5 Kinds of Aspirations that will Help You Design Your Life

This is the second post in the Summer Dreamin series that takes a closer look at bucket list living.

The big question: How do you get started or re-engaged with things you want do with your life? What are your before-you-die aspirations?

The simple but illusive first step is to write down your list in a place that you will revisit. For example, since I was twenty-one, I have kept a journal everywhere I go. When finish a journey I put it near my daily work desk with the 4-5 most recent ones. The older journals I archive in my closet (where I can see them). These locations help me revisit my ideas, prayers, dreams, etc. Keep in mind I don't journal everyday, but whenever I am inspired, I have immediate access to a tool to record and review my thoughts.

The second step is also very simple- talk about your list with others. It's a great conversation starter and most people enjoy bucket list talk. Be sure to include your spouse or kids if applicable and make it a family affair.

Now before moving on, let's cover one crucial principle: It's the NO PERFECT LIST principle. Don't try to get the list right, just get it started. Don't worry about dreaming too big or too small. Just get started. Don't worry about what others will think. Just get started. Don't worry about how many things you have written down. Just get started. Write, right now.

THE FIVE KINDS OF ASPIRATIONS

Aspiration #1: A THING TO DO. The most basic bucket list item is an event or experience. These one-time deals don't usually require training or even extraordinary expense. They just require planning and prioritizing. For example:

• Attend the World Series
• Climb a fourteener in Colorado
• Go to a reunion concert with college friends
• Watch the entire Star Wars saga in one sitting
• Go sky-diving

Aspiration #2: A PLACE TO GO. Like my Santorini trip (mentioned in the series kick-off post), maybe you have always wanted take a special vacation. Perhaps its a crazy destination or some excellent adventure.

• See the Pyramids
• Take a romantic getaway weekend in NYC.
• Visit 10 Major League baseball stadiums
• Hike the Grand Canyon
• Take a mission trip to Kenya

Aspiration #3: A SKILL TO LEARN. I have found that most people want to learn something, but never take the time to learn. This thing could be a hobby or some kind of personal discipline. For example:

• Take a photography class
• Impress people with ballroom dance proficiency
• Get a handgun permit
• Learn to speak Swahili
• Grow a bonsai garden

Aspiration #4: AN OBJECTIVE TO ACHIEVE. Your goal may come in many forms: athletic, financial, professional, etc.

• Run a marathon in Vibram 5-finger shoes
• Do a cycling tour down from Seattle to San Diego
• Save $100,000 in ten years
• Start an at-home business
• Spend three months a year donating time oversees

Aspiration #5: A POSSESSION TO OBTAIN. Maybe you have always wanted to have something really specific. It could be something you collect, rent, or own.

• Collect one of every lincoln penny
• Buy a really powerful telescope
• Drive an 1969 Jaguar XKE for a weekend
• Have a home with a pool
• Own an airplane

Okay, now its time to spend 30 minutes and write down your ideas. (Or schedule the time if you can't do it now.) Now add to your list. Remember there is no perfect list just a perfect start- by actually starting.

If you are interested in a special experience that covers all of the Essential Life Design Skills, check out the block post series that kicks off with God's Plan for Your Life Plan or just get signed up for an Younique Experience.