Tell me, when was the last time you tried something new? Something exciting? Something different? When was the last time you tasted a new food, danced to new music, learned a new skill? When was the last time you stepped outside your oh-so-comfortable comfort zone?
Was it a long time ago?
When was the last time you went to bed at night feeling totally exhilarated by your extraordinary day? When was the last time you made a memory so special that you wanted to rewind the clock so you could do it all over again?
Was it a lifetime ago?
If it was, then I recognize that boat you’re in. I’d been paddling up the mundane, mediocre, boring stream of no return for quite a while too. Lucky for me, something happened and that very same something can happen for you. All you need is a birthday and a bucket list. Here’s how it works:
When I turned the big 3-0, I decided upon this milestone that it was time for a change. Time for something new. So I set out to do 30 things I’d never done before: 30 firsts for my 30th year.
The idea came about as I was updating my bucket list (that list of dreams you hold onto until you’re very, very old; possibly too old to do half the things that should’ve been done when you were young and springy). Well instead of waiting until I’m a slow moving wrinkle, I decided to start now. Not next year, not next month… now. And let me tell you, I’m so glad I did.
So many things happened! So many things I couldn’t have predicted. Fun was had, goals were achieved, and fears were conquered. It was a splendidly kick-ass year. Here are just a few of my 30 firsts:
- Held a tarantula
- Went bobsledding
- Starred in a country music video
- Talked my way out of a ticket
- Pitched an idea to Dragons’ Den
- Made a pie from scratch
- Went indoor skydiving
- Modeled nude
- Sang karaoke all by myself
- Tried archery
- Wrote a song
- Went 24 hours without food
- Had a psychic reading
- Became a teacher
- Ate a raw oyster… the list goes on!
As others heard about the “Birthday Bucket List” they became excited and inspired. They checked in throughout the year to hear about what I’d done and what I had left to do. Several said they’re going to do the same thing for their next birthday. Yes!
Are you thinking what they were thinking? Double yes!
The rules are easy: Whatever age you’re turning, that’s how many new things you try. You have until your next birthday rolls around to complete your list (essentially your birthdays act as the bookends for all your new escapades).
If you’re diggin’ this concept, go for it! Toss the paddles of mediocrity from your boring-ass boat and dive into the luscious waters of excitement and adventure. Make a splash for yourself! You’ll be so glad you did.
What have you always wanted to try? Places you’ve wanted to see?
Try those things! See those places!
Have you wanted to try stand-up comedy? Order something crazy off the menu? Go snowboarding? Write a book? Make a wish on the Eiffel Tower? Whatever is on your list, get going. You owe it to your dreams – they’re counting on you to come true!
All kinds of firsts are eager to meet you. And yes, small things count (hell, pie made my final list).
What are you waiting for? The right time, the right place, the right haircut?
Life isn’t going to come bust down your door and happen to you; you have to go out there and happen to life.
This is your year to be brave and bold. If I can do it, so can you. Get some birthday balls! The time is perfect. If you’re reading this, that’s your cue. Just hold on tight, you’re about to have so much fun…
Ready? Set? Blow out the candles and… go!
PS: If you want to see the complete list of 30 things with pictures, check out the video here!
