In a world ripe with opportunities and adventure, where does one start with their bucket list? Though people’s idea of a good time varies, we’ve narrowed down a handful of life experiences that just about everyone should try.
1. See the Northern Lights
There’s something surreal about the aurora borealis—a canvas of green and pink lights spread across the night sky. Phew, it’s magic. Though you probably won’t catch it in your backyard, consider a trek to an unpolluted space where you can catch nature’s greatest show.
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2. Living Alone
Living alone not only comes with unbridled freedom, but it also teaches you a lot about yourself. You’ll learn your tidiness levels, the meals you prefer, and how to keep yourself occupied, all of which come in handy should you move in with someone else.
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3. Road Trip
A road trip doesn’t have to mean two days of driving! A simple trip away from those suburban streets is all you need, especially with good company. A cooler packed with snacks, a great soundtrack, and the open road is something everyone should experience.
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4. Work in Customer Service
Don’t get us wrong—customer service jobs suck. However, that kind of experience gives you lifelong empathy for others in the industry. It’s much harder to get upset at a struggling cashier when you remember the feeling.
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5. Solo Travel
Much like living alone, solo travel unlocks all kinds of self-knowledge. You can adhere to your own schedule, do what you want, and have at least a week to enjoy your own company. Not to mention, you have every opportunity to make new friends and build confidence!
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6. Being Single
We know it sucks being chronically single, but a little alone time is actually one of the most freeing experiences. Not only are you in control of your own life, you’re also financially and emotionally independent. Don’t take self-comfort for granted.
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7. Giving Back
Whether it’s working at a shelter during the holidays or giving blood, there’s nothing like generosity. Even if you’re not an everyday volunteer, try to give back at least once in your life—you help others and feel better, too.
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8. Digital Detox
We’re all pretty attached to our phones nowadays, which is exactly why you should detox. Start small and cut down phone time, or go big by taking a weekend-long break. However you do it, getting back in touch with nature or a solid book is good for the soul.
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9. Pull an All-Nighter
Studying for exams, working a long shift, a busy mind—all-nighters often come with a hefty price, but it’s a universal experience. If you’re still up when the birds start their song, you just survived one of life’s biggest challenges and can officially relate to others.
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10. Visit Another Country
You don’t need to visit any place too different from home, but you should venture into the world. It’s a big place full of great food and better people, so explore what life can offer. You can also bring friends or family with you if you’re too nervous to go it alone!
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11. Head to a Topless Beach
If you’re up for the challenge, the more…exotic beaches are incredibly freeing (literally). You’re under no obligation to let it all out, but the option is there and you’d be in good company. In most cases, you also wouldn’t have to worry about safety or negativity either because the beaches are very inclusive.
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12. Eat Alone
On the other hand, maybe we should start smaller! Though many people feel self-conscious, eating alone is a liberating experience. It gives you a chance to recharge and be alone with your thoughts, and can actually provide a healthy confidence boost.
Photo by Ismail Hamzah on Unsplash
13. See the Ocean
Hey, a lake is nice. Rapid rivers, too—the ocean is much different, though. That vast body of water holds all kinds of marine life, but even if you don’t see anything, it’s still a sight to behold.
Photo by Aleksandra Boguslawska on Unsplash
14. Face Your Fears
Of course, it’s much easier said than done, but facing fears is an adrenaline rush like no other. Maybe you’ll fly for the first time or let a tarantula hang out on your hand. Maybe you’ll give a speech at a wedding. However you conquer yours, staring fear in the face is a first-class ticket to more confidence.
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15. Love Yourself
Self-love is perhaps the hardest bucket list item. Being comfortable with yourself is one thing, but it’s something else entirely to truly love yourself. If you only scratch one thing off your list, aim to respect your reflection!
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16. True Friendship
There are friends, and then there are true friends. One of life’s best experiences is finding someone to call in the middle of the night, someone to rely on unflinchingly. Though close friendship happens organically, don’t let it go once you’ve got it.
17. Good Food
Good food doesn’t have to mean five-star restaurants. In fact, some fancier restaurants aren’t what they’re cracked up to be—good food can also mean hole-in-the-wall haunts you swear by. Whatever good food looks like to you, everyone should experience a hearty meal.
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18. Quit a Terrible Job
Ideally, you won’t have the same awful job forever. You don’t have to burn bridges on your way out, but finally quitting a terrible job is a huge sigh of relief. Putting that name tag on for the last time? Yes, please.
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19. Overcome Failure
Failure is part of life and it takes many forms. Some are rejected by romantic interests while others miss out on dream jobs, however, the most important thing is to get back up. Truly overcoming failure is a learning opportunity and you’ll feel much better when you succeed later.
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20. See a Concert
So many great performers, so little time. You don’t need to jump in the mosh pit, but there’s nothing like a good concert—even if you’re in the nosebleeds. From bands you’ve followed your whole life to up-and-coming musicians, there’s an entire world of music just waiting to wow you.
