How Do You Even Start A Life List?

In Netflix’s new rom-com The Life List, Sofia Carson’s character Alex finds herself ticking off childhood dreams from a list she wrote at thirteen, one her late mother secretly held onto.

For anyone who hasn’t already written a bucket list, it might just get you thinking, “What would be on mine?”

Jotting down your own mix of wild goals and heartfelt wishes isn’t just fun, it can bring a surprising amount of clarity. No matter what stage of life you’re in, here’s our guide to help you start crafting a life list that’s personal to you.

Step 1: Daydream Like It’s Your Job

Grab a notebook, open a blank doc, or start a new Notes app folder. Now, let your imagination run wild without any “is this realistic?” worries. Just like when you’re manifesting, you can be as delusional as you want.

Whether you want to swim with turtles or learn how to DJ, write it all down. This is your permission to be as extra as you can.

Step 2: Gather Clues from Everywhere/Everything

If the ideas start running dry, turn outward. Watch travel vlogs or documentaries that you are passionate about. Often, we don’t know what we want until we actually see it.

Inspiration is everywhere, and your list should feel like a mix of curiosities, influences, and “I have to do that” moments.

Step 3: Sort The Chaos

Now that you have a dreamy mess of goals, try grouping them into categories. For example, think:

• Places to go (Japan in cherry blossom season)
• Things to Learn (A new language, starting a dance class)
• Personal Wins (starting a project, do a solo trip)
• Just for fun (sunrise swim, spontaneous tattoo)

Organising helps you balance the big goals with the just-for-you ones.

Step 4: Non-Pressurised Deadlines

Don’t stress, it’s never about pressure. But giving your list some gentle structure, categorising them into which ones feel like “sometime this year”? or which is “someday when I’ve got the time/money”?

Label them short-term, medium-term, or long-term. That way, you’ll always know which dream to chase next.

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Step 5: Don’t be Scared to Say It Out Loud

Revealing your aspirations can have a way of turning them into reality. Whether it’s your best friend, your sister, or your parent, voicing your goals makes them feel real and might even spark some shared experiences.

Imagine telling your friend you want to learn to surf, and they have always wanted to try it too. That’s the stuff that sticks with you.

Embrace As You Grow

You are always allowed to change your mind. Scratch off the goals that don’t feel right anymore and add new ones. Your list should grow with you, reflecting new versions of yourself.

Because a life list isn’t just about ticking boxes, it’s about recognising how much there is to live for. It’s about living with intention, happiness, and a little bit of mischief. So, pop on the Life List and start scribbling your ideas.