Is life too short? Though the answer is very subjective, it is undeniable that we only have a finite amount of time to experience things on this planet.
It’s easy to get carried away by work and everything we are supposed to do, and forget about the things we really want to do. That’s why it’s important to take the time to think of what we would like to see, feel, and experience in life.
I have created a list of 100 things to do before you die. You can use this list to get inspired, find new ideas, and even discover things you never even knew existed. If you find any of these items particularly interesting, compelling, or exciting, then feel free to add them to your own bucket list.
If you want, you can also download the whole list by clicking on the button at the end of this post. Now, let’s start with the first item, which is probably the most important. The first thing you should do before you die is…
1. Make your own list
What would make your life complete? What would make you fulfilled? What are the most exciting things you can imagine? If you haven’t already, I encourage you to take some time and create your own bucket list. It doesn’t have to be as long as this one: twenty items would probably be good enough.
Though I hope you find this list inspiring, we are all different, and only you know what you truly want to experience in life. Keep reading for now, and get inspired, but once you’re done, think of your own list.
2. Go bungee jumping
Bungee jumping is safer than many extreme sports — the fatality rate seems to be roughly one in half a million — but the adrenaline rush it provides is incredible.
Some people try it once and, because of the intense euphoria they experience afterwards, they can’t wait to do it again. If you decide to go for it, make sure you follow all the recommendations, and don’t think about it too much: it’s normal to feel nervous, so the more you think about it, the more you’ll be afraid.
3. Do a water fast
When you stop eating solid food, your body changes its metabolism, and gets rid of toxins faster. During a water fast, you may experience an increase in energy, mental clarity, and focus. Some people believe fasting can also be a spiritual experience.
Many studies have shown that fasting can extend longevity, boost the immune system, and reduce inflammation. You can fast for a day, three days, or more, but make sure you do it safely. Fasting is a powerful way to change your mental and physical state, and I believe you should try it at least once in your lifetime.
4. Get a soothing massage
Massage feels wonderful, and there’s many different types you can try: aromatherapy, Thai, Swedish, Balinese, Hawaiian, and more. They all promote relaxation, and have many health benefits including improved circulation and better sleep.
To make the experience as relaxing as possible, make sure you get a long massage (one hour or more), and don’t do anything too demanding throughout the rest of the day. Most importantly, don’t drink any alcohol — it would mess you up — but do drink a lot of water.
5. Watch the sunrise
You have the opportunity to witness a miracle every single morning, and it’s 100 percent free. Sunrises are incredibly beautiful, especially if you are at the beach. And when you watch the sunrise, it’s usually very quiet (everyone else will probably still be in bed).
Get outside. Watch the sunrise. Watch the sunset. How does that make you feel? Does it make you feel big or tiny? Because there’s something good about feeling both.
— Amy Grant
6. Laugh like you never have before
Have you ever laughed so hard you cried? If you have, you know how good it feels. A good laugh releases endorphins, lowers blood pressure, and reduces stress. It can also be a bonding experience: think of when you and your friends laugh together.
In a society that glorifies being productive all the time, it’s important to take life less seriously and get your daily or weekly dose of laughter — it’s a natural antidepressant, and it feels really good.
7. Fall in love
Can you fall in love and get hurt, badly? Of course. Falling in love is an emotional roller coaster. You become more vulnerable, and you find it harder to control your thoughts and feelings.
However it’s one of the best things you could ever experience. Much like a drug, it makes you feel euphoric, blissful, and on top of the world. Yes, getting your heart broken can be devastating, but it’s usually worth taking the leap. Keep in mind, it’s never too late to fall in love with someone, and it may happen when you least expect it.
8. Visit a tropical island
If you love hot weather, tiny tropical islands are the definition of perfection. Unless they are invaded by tourists, they are incredibly quiet and peaceful; the only noises you hear are the birds and the sea waves. The colors are incredible, and the temperature is usually perfect.
Whether it’s the Maldives, the Seychelles, the Philippines, Bora Bora, or any other heavenly place, you have to experience it at least once in your lifetime. Make sure you bring your sunscreen!
9. Walk in an endless field of flowers
This is the kind of environment that makes you feel like you are in a fairy tale. The vivid colors, the intense floral scent, the endless fields will leave you in awe for hours.
There are many huge flower fields all over the world. One of them is the Hitachi Seaside Park in Japan, which covers an area of 190 hectares and can be visited in any season. Another example is the endless lavender fields in Provence, France, which look magical.
10. Go on a sabbatical
This means taking time off work so you can dedicate your time to other activities — learning a new skill, traveling, improving your health, or the holiday of a lifetime. What’s great about this is that you decide what to do, and how long for.
Though you do have to evaluate your situation before going on a sabbatical, it’s usually a pretty good idea. If you have been thinking about doing this for a while, and you know you can afford it, go for it! If you want, you can check my article about the best sabbatical ideas so you can get inspired.
11. Dine at a fabulous restaurant
For many of us, food is one of the greatest joys in life, and it’s not a luxury: it is essential to good health. And while you don’t need to dine at a starred restaurant to improve your wellbeing, it should probably be one of the items in your bucket list.
You’ll get to eat the most delicious and sophisticated food, but most importantly, you’ll experience food as an art form — one where the chef carefully chooses the different ingredients, herbs, spices, and even the color combinations.
12. Keep a journal
You can use a journal to write down your goals, express feelings that have bottled up inside you, or simply record your thoughts. It doesn’t have to be a long term commitment, however you should do it for at least a month to notice the benefits.
At first, keeping a journal may seem like a waste of time. But the more you write in your journal, the more you will notice changes in terms of clarity and awareness.
13. Stargaze
I already mentioned you have the opportunity to witness a miracle every single morning, when the sun rises; however you can witness another miracle every night, as long as the sky is clear and dark.
When I was a child, I used to spend hours looking at the stars, and wonder about the universe and the meaning of life. A starry sky is one of the most mysterious, most magical, most beautiful things you will ever see in your life. If you are serious about this, consider visiting the Atacama desert in Chile — it’s the best place in the world to stargaze.
14. Teach someone a skill
When you share your knowledge, you have to be as clear as possible. What you teach has to be easy to understand, and you have to go through all the basics, some of which you may have forgotten. So “when you teach, you learn twice”, as Joseph Joubert once said.
Plus, it’s a great way to make a contribution; you get the opportunity to share your passion, and see others grow as they learn from you. Not surprisingly, teaching is considered to be one of the most fulfilling professions.
15. Learn to cook
Cooking can be a very relaxing hobby. When you prepare a meal, you focus all your attention on the ingredients, their taste and smell, the cooking process, and the correct timing of everything.
When you know how to cook, you can also save money, and eat a lot healthier (as long as you choose healthy recipes, of course). Plus, you’ll be able to host amazing dinner parties and surprise all your guests with your cooking abilities.
16. Go out alone
Going out on your own can be terrifying at first, but it’s something everyone should try. Though it’s great to go out with friends you already know, it usually prevents you from meeting new people.
When you go out solo, you are free to do whatever you want — go home early or party until late, dress up a certain way, visit a new place, talk to new people. If you find it awkward go out alone, try solo traveling — it will feel more natural and spontaneous.
17. See the aurora borealis
You’ll have to travel up north for this one, but it’ll be worth it. The “northern lights” happen when particles emitted from the sun go through the Earth’s magnetic shield.
The result of this reaction is literally mind blowing: the sky looks something like an abstract painting, and changes its colors. Usually, it turns green and purple, but the great thing about the northern lights is that they always look different.
18. Walk in nature
This is the kind of experience that generates feelings of calm, wellbeing, and inner peace. Few things are as relaxing as taking a walk in nature, whether it’s at the beach, in a beautiful park, in the mountains, or in a forest.
When we connect with nature, get some sunlight, and move our body, we instantly feel better: it’s basically a natural antidepressant. You can do this either alone or with other people, and depending on where you live, you could even make it a habit.
19. Stay at a five star hotel
For the ultimate luxurious experience, stay at an upscale hotel. In a true five star hotel, you’ll be treated like a king, and get exceptional everything: exceptional design, view, service, spa, restaurants, and safety.
Some five star hotels are more affordable than others, so you won’t need to be a multimillionaire to cross this off from your bucket list. In Asia, you can stay at some fabulous five star hotels for less than $200 a night.
20. Go on a night drive
This is so relaxing, there are many ASMR videos on YouTube showing people driving at night. During rush hour, or whenever it’s trafficky, driving can be stressful. However at night, when it’s quiet, it can turn into a calming activity.
You can do this alone in silence, or blast your favorite songs with a bunch of friends, so you can all have a laugh. Just make sure you don’t doze off!
21. Do a dopamine detox
During a dopamine detox, you basically abstain from all those activities that trigger dopamine releases. You can do this for a day, or a whole month; eliminate all dopamine triggers, or only a few.
The idea behind this kind of detox is that our brain gets used to constant tiny dopamine “highs”, whether it’s from our smartphone, watching the news, eating junk food, or anything else, and over time it loses the ability to truly enjoy things in life. During the detox, you’ll be super productive; after the detox, you will likely experience more joy and gratitude, effortlessly.
22. Watch fireworks
Who doesn’t like fireworks? They are just spectacular. All firework shows look great, but if you want to see the best, consider visiting Dubai, Rio de Janeiro, or the Vegas Strip on New Year’s Eve.
Or, head to Montreal to watch the International Fireworks Festival, probably the best in the world. The festival is held every summer and features shows from different countries. Every year, over three million spectators gather to see the fireworks.
23. Visit a castle
There is something magical about castles, especially when you tour the inside — you get to see the towers, the imposing doors, the hidden rooms and passageways, and the art, such as paintings and decorations.
If you are adventurous, consider visiting a haunted castle — there’s many in Europe. If you visit Dragsholm castle in Denmark, you won’t need to worry about the accommodation: it’s a hotel as well.
24. Attend a carnival
Carnival is celebrated all over the world, so you can pick the one you prefer. If you want to see the biggest, wildest, most colorful, most spectacular celebration, then head to Rio in mid February.
If you prefer a classier atmosphere, go to Venice, where you can attend exclusive masked balls, though the main Carnival celebration is still free to attend. If you want to see something different, go to Binche, Belgium, where hundreds of Gilles (clowns in picturesque costumes) march and dance around the city.
25. Meditate
Meditation can help you reach a blissful state of mind; you may not be able to reach enlightenment, but you will notice positive changes in your thoughts, emotions, and feelings. If you are consistent, you will experience long term benefits as well, such as better sleep and more clarity.
Because meditation teaches you that you are not your mind, it can be very useful if you suffer from any mental health issue, such as anxiety or panic. When you silence your mind, you get to experience the external world in a different way. You can check out five easy meditation techniques here.
26. Go to the top of Burj Khalifa
If you ever visit Dubai, make sure you go to the top of the Burj Khalifa, which is currently the tallest building in the world. Tour tickets cost roughly $40 or $100 depending on which floor you want to visit. Unless you are afraid of heights, you’ll love it.
While you’re there, you can stay at one of the nearby hotels, and get your shopping fix at the Dubai mall, one of the largest in the world (there’s over 40 different perfume boutiques, and roughly 1,300 stores in total).
27. Visit the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona
There are many churches and cathedrals in Spain. They are all beautiful, however there is one that is 100 percent unique. It was designed by Anthoni Gaudí, and it is still under construction, though it is expected it will be completed within several years.
The Sagrada Familia is one of the most incredible buildings in the world — the kind of building you would see in a dream. The exterior is good enough, but the inside is just breathtaking. If you don’t believe me, do a quick Google search, and be amazed.
28. Take a helicopter tour of New York at night
Spectacular views, check. City lights, check. Comfortable seats, check. Helicopter tours can be pricey, but the ones in New York are definitely worth the cost. You’ll get to see the Big Apple from above: the Statue of Liberty, Central Park, the Brooklyn Bridge, and more.
There’s different tours you can choose from, so make sure you plan and book everything in advance. You can fly in the afternoon, or at night (I would always choose the latter, but it’s up to you).
29. Visit a contemporary art museum
A contemporary art exhibition is the only place in the world where you get to see giant bubble gum sculptures, surreal AI-generated videos, and paintings made of glitter. Though it’s different from anything Michelangelo or Rembrandt have created, it’s still art, and it’s pretty cool.
So next time you head to Europe, make sure you stop at the Tate Modern in London, the Centre Pompidou in Paris, Espacio Solo in Madrid, or S.M.A.K. in Ghent. I guarantee it will be worth your time.
30. Upload a video on YouTube
The well-known platform makes it really easy to create an account and upload a video, so why not? Your video may even go viral and get thousands of likes. You don’t need to show your face, it could be a video of anything.
If you are a freelancer or own a business, YouTube could even help you get more clients, or promote your brand. It takes a while for the algorithm to notice your content, so if you are thinking about uploading videos, start as soon as possible!
31. Watch the sea waves
After a long walk on the shore, take some time to relax and watch the waves; listen to their hypnotizing sound as the breeze caresses your skin. The sea is so calming and soothing, it’s as if you were meditating.
We are tied to the ocean. And when we go back to the sea, whether it is to sail or to watch — we are going back from whence we came.
— John F. Kennedy
32. Listen to Art Tatum
Even if jazz music isn’t your thing, you have to listen to Art Tatum at least once in your lifetime. Tatum was an extraordinary jazz pianist, one of the best if not the best in history. To this day, his technical ability is probably unmatched.
Tatum’s speed, originality, and improvisation skills were incredible and could not be replicated by other pianists. During his performances, he would play the piano for hours, without slowing down or making a single mistake. He was also a heavy drinker, but alcohol didn’t seem to affect his technical skills.
33. Go on a cruise
A cruise ship is basically a floating theme park. As you travel to different destinations, you have access to 24/7 entertainment, restaurants, bars, casinos, swimming pools, parties, and more.
Because everyone is there to have fun, you’ll find it easy to meet new people and have the time of your life. And when you don’t feel like partying, you can always relax, sea gaze, get a nice tan, or eat whatever you want at one of the buffets.
34. Learn a foreign language
If you love to travel, then learning a foreign language can help you explore your favorite destinations and truly get to know the locals. It will also be easier for you to understand the culture of the places you are visiting.
However knowing a second — or third — language will be beneficial even if you don’t travel much. It will be a challenge, an opportunity to meet new people (especially if you join a language class), improve your confidence, and perhaps even advance in your career.
35. Fly on a hot air balloon
Hot air balloons are a lot safer than you think, and they offer a once in a lifetime experience. If you are terrified of heights, it’s probably not a good idea, however if it sounds exciting, make sure you add it to your bucket list!
Usually the flight will be one hour long, and you’ll get some pretty amazing views. There are hot air balloon ride companies in almost all states and countries, so it shouldn’t be hard to find one. If you go for it, don’t forget to take pictures!
36. Visit Las Coloradas in Mexico
On the northern coast of the Yucatan peninsula there is a very unique place called Las Coloradas. It’s a pink water lagoon, which looks absolutely amazing. Because the lagoon is inhabited by red algae and plankton, the water turns pink.
The area is usually not too crowded, and if you’re lucky you may see some flamingos as well. If you are staying in Cancun, it should take about four hours to reach Las Coloradas (you can rent a car or join one of the tours). It may sound like a long time, but it will be 100 percent worth it — you’ll get to see one of the most unique places in the world.
37. See the Sphinx
The most famous sphinx is located in Giza, on the outskirts of Cairo. It’s an imposing, majestic statue whose story is still something of a mystery. If you ever go to Egypt, a visit to the Great Sphinx (as well as the pyramids) is a must.
There are many different tours available, and they usually include hotel pickup and drop off, a knowledgeable guide, and lunch. If your hotel is in Cairo, it’ll only take about thirty minutes to reach the Sphinx. Tours can be half-day or full-day.
38. Make art
You don’t need to be technically skilled to make art. As long as you are creative, you can create drawings, paintings, or sculptures. Or, you could create original items such as bracelets, origami, stuffed toys, or collages. If they look good, perhaps you could even sell them.
Express yourself and experiment with different colors and techniques. You may be a talented artist, but you’ll never know until you exercise your creativity. Art can also be a great way to de-stress and release emotions, so I encourage you to try it at least once.
39. Take Bach flower essences
Bach flower essences are an alternative therapy that is now used to treat many conditions. Apparently, the true benefit of the flowers is that, when taken properly, they help you tune in to your soul and release all negative emotions — so they are mainly used to heal emotional problems.
What’s great about flower essences is that they have literally no side effects, so it’s safe to take them regardless of your health. If you see an experienced homeopath, they will be able to give you the right essence. Many people experienced life-changing effects (in a good way, of course), so it’s definitely something you want to try.
40. Turn off your phone
Seriously, turn off your phone. You don’t need to do a month long smartphone detox, but if you turn it off for just a day, you may be amazed to see how much extra time and energy you will have.
There is nothing wrong with using your phone, but for many of us, it can be a huge waste of time, whether we are trying to be productive, or simply enjoy life. Try to go a day without using any device, and notice the changes. You have nothing to lose, but potentially a lot to gain.
41. Perform a random act of kindness
It always feels good to give, and put a smile on someone’s face, especially as a surprise. You could tip 100 percent of your bill, pay for someone’s lunch, offer a ride home, or feed a stray cat — whatever makes you feel happy.
Performing a random act of kindness can help you connect to others and feel better about yourself. You don’t need to use money — it could be something as simple as holding the door for someone.
42. Buy an expensive, unique perfume
The best, most complex fragrances are a work of art, and I think everyone deserves to own one. There’s many different brands and kinds — floral, woody, oriental, citrusy, aquatic, and more.
We all have different tastes and styles, so choose your “signature scent” carefully. You could blind buy one online based on the reviews, but it’s best to try different ones at a store and see how they react with your skin.
43. Be the healthiest you have ever been
When your overall health is optimal, you will be happier, more productive, more focused, and enjoy life a lot more. It’s important that you take care of your physical and mental health, and it doesn’t require a lot of time or effort.
Exercise consistently (even a short walk every day is beneficial), make sure you get enough vitamins and minerals, eliminate harmful foods from your diet, and make sleep a priority; if you’re a smoker, quit. You don’t need to be an athlete, and you definitely don’t want to obsess over your health, but you do want to improve it as much as possible.
44. Pick a four-leaf clover
Apparently, your chance of finding one is roughly one in 5,000 (for every four-leaf clover there are roughly 5,000 three-leaf clovers). According to some traditions, four-leaf clovers bring good luck; the four leaves symbolize faith, hope, love, and luck.
The most four-leaf clovers collected in eight hours is 887. The record was achieved by Gabriella Gerhardt in Fitchburg, Wisconsin. Picking one may not be as hard as you think!
45. Get a custom printed T-shirt…
…or a custom cap, hoodie, or tank top, whichever you prefer. There is something cool about wearing your own logo, design, or color combination. Plus, it’s unique: you will be the only person in the world wearing the item you created.
There are custom apparel printing companies in every state and country, and the prices are affordable, so it’s easy to wear your own brand.
46. Eat whatever you want for a whole day
Even if you’re a fitness enthusiast, you should have a “cheat day” where you are allowed to eat whatever you want for breakfast, lunch, and dinner (with some snacks in between if you want).
The real dangers of junk food and super high-calorie meals occur when they become a habit: some people eat badly every single day, and that’s why their health is at risk. A cheat day, on the other hand, is perfectly fine, and I believe everyone should try it at least once.
47. Build a snowman
As we grow up, we tend to forget how much fun we had when we were little, even with the simplest things. Building a snowman may seem silly, but it’s creative, and it’s a lot of fun.
So next time it snows, grab your gloves and create your own frozen masterpiece. If it never snows where you live, then add this to your to-do list when you go on holiday somewhere cold.
48. Forgive yourself for your past
We all make mistakes. We are supposed to. If we never experienced disappointment or failure, we would never grow. You want to learn from your past mistakes, but dwelling on them is one of the worst things you could do for your mental health.
So forgive yourself for everything you have done in the past, no matter how stupid you think it has been. Guilt and self-criticism won’t help you in any way.
49. Visit an elephant sanctuary
There are elephant sanctuaries in the US, Africa, Sri Lanka, and Asia, especially Thailand. Make sure the one you visit is ethical (the elephants should not be abused in any way, and should have enough space to roam, otherwise it’s basically animal cruelty).
When you visit a sanctuary, you get to meet, feed, and bathe the elephants — do not visit sanctuaries where you can ride them, it’s a practice which involves cruelty. Elephants are amazing creatures, and interacting with them is a once in a lifetime experience.
50. Play roulette
Do you have a favorite number? You don’t have to be a compulsive gambler to play roulette, or any other casino games, so try your luck at least once.
You can bet on a single number, splits (two numbers, e.g. 4 and 7), corners (four numbers), even chances, or any other combination. Decide how much you want to gamble in advance, and bring cash, as ATM fees can be pretty high. Good luck!
51. Buy yourself a gift
Receiving a present is always pleasant, however when you buy yourself a gift, big or small, it’s equally exciting. You don’t have to wait until Christmas, or your birthday. If there’s an item you love, just buy it.
If you don’t love yourself, nobody will. Not only that, you won’t be good at loving anyone else. Loving starts with the self.
— Wayne Dyer
52. Discover your personality type
Are you predominantly introverted or extroverted? Are you open to new ideas and possibilities, or do you prefer to stick to what works? Are you an adventurous, risk seeking individual, or do you prefer a quiet life?
Most of us never really take the time to discover our personality type, but it’s a fascinating process. The more you learn about who you are, how you think, and how you behave, the easier life will be. We’re all different, so you need to know who you are before designing the life that you want.
53. Eat something you never tried before
If you’ve crossed off the eleventh item (“Dine at a fabulous restaurant”), then you may have done this already. But you may still want to eat food that is absolutely unique, or unusual, or from different cuisines.
It could be pumpkin wine, calamari and ginger pizza, Hawaiian poke, vegan cheese, Japanese Kobe beef, kimchi, green tea ice cream, zucchini pasta — anything that sounds delicious and intrigues you.
54. Declutter
Clutter doesn’t just look bad — it’s mental taxation. It eats up your time, energy, and focus; perhaps your money as well. I have explained the ten negative effects of clutter in this article.
If you haven’t already, you should take the time to declutter, so your home looks orderly and clean. Once you get rid of the items you no longer use (or never used at all), you will notice positive changes in your mood and attitude.
55. Share a secret
In a world where it’s normal to share pictures and videos of ourselves, being secretive can be a good thing. However sharing a personal experience with another person can feel wonderful; if the experience was particularly painful, or stressful, sharing it with others may help you move on.
It’s important that you choose what is 100 percent private and what isn’t, and you want to make sure that the person you are talking to genuinely cares about you. Telling a secret makes you vulnerable, so you have to do it with someone you can trust.
56. Watch a firefly show in Tennessee
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is inhabited by tens of thousands of fireflies, who gather in groups every summer. Watching these magical creatures at night is something you shouldn’t miss.
The firefly show is so popular that you now have to enter a lottery to participate. If you win, you will have the opportunity to join a tour that takes you to the breathtaking firefly show. It’s almost impossible to capture fireflies on camera, so make sure you add this to your bucket list.
57. Attend a Japanese tea ceremony
This is a very calming experience, similar to a mindfulness meditation. A Japanese tea ceremony is a ritual in which Matcha tea is carefully prepared and then served to the guests. Guests are also offered cute, colorful sweets made with rice flour and paste filling.
Because the ceremony is a complex ritual, and there are a few rules you should follow, it is recommended that you learn more about the ritual in advance.
58. Go to a concert
If you have never been to a concert, add it to your bucket list! There is something incredibly exciting about hearing the music you love in a sea of thousands of people.
Outdoor concerts are probably the best, though they may be canceled in case of bad weather.
59. See the Eiffel Tower
Paris is the city of love, one with a dreamy, romantic atmosphere, and you should visit it at least once in your life. There’s many attractions you can visit, including the different museums, the Notre-Dame cathedral, the Champs Élysées, and Versailles.
However there is one you simply cannot miss — the Eiffel Tower. It is located in the 7th arrondissement, in the Champs de Mars. It looks incredible, especially at night. You can even buy a ticket to get to the top floor.
60. See the Grand Canyon
The Grand Canyon is a sight you don’t want to miss. Depending on the time of the day, you will see different colors — orange, gray, dark red, and purple. Apparently, the rocks formed millions of years ago, which makes it even more amazing.
The Antelope Canyon (a beautiful slot canyon that almost resembles an abstract painting) is only two to three hours away from the Grand Canyon, so if you have enough time, it makes sense to see both. Don’t forget to bring your camera and take pictures!
61. Create your own recipe or dish
Is there a dish you like to cook for yourself? Or one you always order, regardless of what is on the menu? Take some time to experiment with the ingredients, and create your own version.
Or, you could create your own signature dish, whether it’s an appetizer, dessert, or sauce. You could then host a dinner party and surprise your guests with your creation.
62. Meet someone you really admire
It could be the author of a book you enjoyed, a celebrity, an influencer that inspires you, a successful entrepreneur. Though you probably already know quite a lot about him or her, meeting them in person will allow you to see who they are.
You don’t need to shake hands or have a conversation with them. It could be as simple as joining one of their events, or getting an autograph.
63. Get a custom diet plan
Though there are some basic guidelines for a healthy diet (such as eating more vegetables and fruit, being properly hydrated, and avoiding harmful foods), we are all different, so if you are serious about your diet, it’s a good idea to get a custom meal plan.
If you are an athlete, or you have a fitness goal, then you basically have to see a nutritionist. They will be able to create your optimal diet based on your weight, age, body type, and possible food intolerances.
64. Hold a baby chick
Get a massive dose of cuteness by holding one of these adorable creatures in your hands. Make sure you are very gentle, and don’t squeeze them.
If their stomach is full, they may even fall asleep on your lap. Some chicks like it when you hold them and pet them on the head; others don’t. See how they react, and don’t force them to stay in your hands.
65. Visit a night market
Walking along hundreds of stalls at night is a unique experience. If you visit a huge market, you will be able to buy anything from food, to souvenirs, books, paintings, clothes, and jewelry, or even get a massage.
Some of the greatest, most picturesque night markets in the world are in Asia: you can find them in Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Vientiane, and Beijing.
66. Visit a remote village
It can be fascinating to see how people live in a remote, tiny village immersed in nature, whether it’s in your own country, or during a holiday abroad.
You will get to see how the locals live, eat the food they eat, and enjoy the calm, peaceful atmosphere. If crowded places are not your cup of tea, and you prefer quiet locations, add this to the things to do before you die.
67. Explore Chichen Itza in Mexico
This is one of the most popular things to do in Mexico, and it’s one of the seven wonders of the world. Chichen Itza is about an hour drive outside of Mérida, in the state of Yucatan.
Apparently, the best time to visit is as soon as it opens, early in the morning, when there aren’t many tourists yet. You can hire a guide or explore the area on your own. You will get to see some pretty incredible Mayan ruins, including a pyramid with 365 steps — one for each day of the year.
68. Build a sandcastle
Perhaps you hate cold weather, and there’s no way you are going to add the 47th item (“build a snowman”) to your bucket list, but you can definitely build a sandcastle instead.
You don’t need to be an architect; just pretend you are a kid again and have fun. You can either use your hands or some basic tools. If you need some inspiration, visit a sandcastle competition first.
69. Try floatation therapy
A floatation tank is a pod you can use to sensory deprive yourself. It may sound scary, but according to those who do it on a regular basis, it actually feels wonderful, and it can be a great way to relax your body and mind.
When you float inside the pod, it feels like you are half asleep and half awake, as if you were meditating deeply. It’s also good for muscle relaxation. Definitely something you want to try at least once.
70. Go to a jazz bar
Most jazz bars have dim lights, classy decor, an intimate atmosphere, and bands performing live. Even if you are not a jazz lover, you want to visit one just to enjoy the vibe.
Every jazz club has a different vibe: some will be more tourist oriented, others will be classy and exclusive, others will host the best bands. Not surprisingly, New York and Paris are among the best cities in the world for jazz clubs.
71. Hug people
Whether it’s your partner, a close friend, your parents, or a stranger at a Free Hugs event, hug them whenever you feel like. Human touch is important for our mental and emotional health, and can’t be replaced by anything else.
Oxytocin, the hormone that gives us a sense of bliss and euphoria, is released whenever we hug someone. Apparently, a 20 second hug can lower anxiety, increase relaxation, and lower blood pressure. Never underestimate the power of a hug!
72. Try hypnotherapy
Some people are afraid to try hypnotherapy because they believe they would lose control over their thoughts, do dangerous things, or even hallucinate. The truth is that a hypnotherapy session is basically a guided meditation.
A session usually lasts thirty minutes to an hour. Hypnotherapy has been shown to be particularly useful for smokers, anxious people, those who have phobias, and those with chronic pain.
73. Write what you have accomplished so far
Having goals and dreams is wonderful, but sometimes it’s important to stop chasing things and reflect on the great things you already have, and the things you have been able to accomplish so far.
What are you proud of? How have you changed in the last two, five, ten years? What kind of person have you become? If you take the time to ask yourself these questions, and realize how much you have grown, I guarantee you will feel incredibly powerful.
74. Listen to meditation music
You can listen to meditation music during… meditation, of course, but also when you want to concentrate, relax, or fall asleep. Listening to touching, healing sounds can change your mood almost instantly.
Music is so easy to explain, yet so inexplicable, as it reproduces all the emotions of our inner being without reality, remote from pain.
— Arthur Schopenhauer
75. Order a miniature of yourself
I mean, how cool is this? All you need to do is take pictures of yourself (usually at least two — front and side) and send them to the closest 3D printing company.
You will then own a cool miniature of yourself. You can put it in your office, on the bedside table, or wherever you want. You could even get a miniature of your house, car, bag, you name it.
76. See a UFO
I’m not sure how you could plan this in advance, but if it did happen, it would be both incredible and a little scary. UFO stands for Unidentified Flying Object, so it doesn’t need to be an alien spaceship.
Apparently, there has been an increase in UFO sightings in recent years. You may see one yourself — you never know.
77. Learn a cool trick
It could be juggling, a coin trick, or a cool way to shuffle a deck of cards, so you can impress your friends the next time you play a card game together.
When skillfully executed, magic tricks are pretty cool, and the audience reaction is often priceless. Alternatively, you can learn a couple pen tricks so you can kill time at work when you’re not too busy.
78. Visit a rooftop bar
Sipping a well-crafted cocktail with your friends is a pleasant experience, but imagine doing that with an amazing view of the city. Two of the highest, most fabulous rooftop bars in the world are the Sky Bar in Bangkok and Ozone at the Ritz Carlton in Hong Kong.
The views are just spectacular, and the cocktails are great too. Visiting an exclusive rooftop bar should definitely be on your list of things to do before you die.
79. Visit a Buddhist temple
Most Buddhist temples are located in Asia (for example, in India, Indonesia, Thailand, Japan, and China). Some are free to visit and are located in the city centre; others can be visited only if you book a tour.
The temples always have a peaceful atmosphere. When you visit one, make sure you follow the basic rules: take off your hat and shoes, don’t point, don’t touch any statue, be quiet, and turn off your phone.
80. Build a campfire
Watching a campfire is a relaxing ritual, especially if you build one yourself. There is something magical about watching a fire burn under a starry sky in the middle of nature.
When you and your friends gather around a campfire to stay warm, eat food, and share stories, it’s a bonding experience. And it feels so great because it’s linked to our primordial needs.
81. Buy yourself flowers
You don’t need to wait for a special occasion, and it doesn’t have to be a present from another person. Flowers are given to loved ones, so if you love yourself, why not?
Few things are as beautiful as flowers, so choose your favorite ones and buy a bouquet. Though it does feel special when you receive them as a gift, you can buy them yourself, as a sign of self appreciation.
82. Solve a 1000 piece puzzle
Attempting to solve a jigsaw puzzle could be very satisfying, or very frustrating, but you should probably try it at least once. If a thousand pieces sounds intimidating, try with 500.
If you are successful, you can hang the final result on the wall and pat yourself on the back as you contemplate it. Or, if you had fun during the process, destroy the puzzle and start all over again.
83. See the Niagara Falls
Located between New York and Ontario, the Niagara Falls are a spectacular sight, and they should be in your travel bucket list. Besides the amazing views, there’s many things you can do from tours, to cruises, enjoying the nightlife, and even gambling (there are two casinos).
You can have a look at the falls for free, however for a unique bird eye view you can book one of the helicopter tours; alternatively, you can get to the top of the observation tower.
84. Sail to the Statue of Liberty
When you travel to New York to take a helicopter tour at night (item 28), make sure you also sail to the Statue of Liberty — one of the main icons of the Big Apple.
Typically, the tour will include food and a drink of your choice, and will last for at least one hour. Not all tours will disembark at Ellis Island and Liberty Island, so check carefully when you book online.
85. Visit Venice
This Italian city is special for many different reasons. It’s a city on water, but most importantly, it’s very unique in terms of its architecture, art, and events, which include the well-known Carnival, the Film Festival, and the Biennale art exhibition.
The city itself is incredibly beautiful, and has a charming atmosphere, however if you ever get bored, you can visit St. Mark’s Square, the churches, and the museums. Of course, you can also take a tour of the canals, and eat some delicious Italian food.
86. Smell freshly cut grass
Apparently, freshly cut grass smells so good because of some compounds emitted from grass when it’s cut, as a defence mechanism. But whatever the reason, it’s an amazing smell.
Some perfume houses have actually tried to replicate the same exact scent in some of their fragrances, particularly fresh, aftershave-like fragrances.
87. Learn self-defence
Hopefully, you will never have to use your self defence skills. However there are many reasons to learn martial arts, or fighting techniques. First of all, it’s a great way to exercise and meet new friends at the same time.
It’s also great for improving your reflexes, focus, and spatial awareness. Finally, it will boost your confidence: you will be forced to break out of your comfort zone and develop courage.
88. Own a pet
Owning a pet can be a long term commitment, so it’s important that you evaluate your situation before making any decisions. Having said that, pets are adorable, so if you love their company and you are able to take care of them, go for it.
Though the most commonly kept pets are cats and dogs, you could own other pets such as fish, hamsters, rabbits, geckos, pigs, hedgehogs, or even snakes. Always make sure the animal has enough space to move around.
89. Take a submarine tour
If scuba diving isn’t your cup of tea, but you still want to admire the beauty of marine life, then add a submarine tour to your bucket list. You’ll get to see the beautiful corals and fish from the comfort of your seat.
There are submarine tours available all over the world, but the best ones are in Bali, Barbados, Hawaii, Mexico, and Turkey.
90. Party until 6am
You have to party until the sun comes up at least once in your lifetime. You don’t even need to get drunk, or dance non-stop: just stay up until late and enjoy your night out without worrying about getting up early next day.
It can be a pub crawl, a house party, or a concert — it’s up to you. But stay up the whole night, and go to bed when most people are about to wake up.
91. Talk to a therapist
Sharing your thoughts and feelings with a therapist will be helpful regardless of who you are. You don’t need to have a mental health disorder to see a therapist — it could be because you are stressed, or facing a big decision, or concerned about a friend.
Talking to a therapist will also help you identify and be more aware of your personality type, as well as what you really want in life, and as we’ve seen, that would be a great asset.
92. Lucid dream
This happens when you know you are dreaming… during a dream. You have probably experienced this already, and it probably lasted a few seconds. However it is possible to train yourself to lucid dream, or at least do so more often.
It’s not easy, and it could take up to one or two months, but once you learn to induce lucid dreams, you will have access to some mind blowing experiences. Apparently, lucid dreaming also helps you reduce anxiety and be more creative.
93. Take amazing pictures of yourself
We all have good pictures of ourselves, but before you die you should at least try to take the most amazing selfies, or pictures of yourself in general.
Some ideas: one on top of a tall skyscraper or mountain, one with a cute pet or statue, one where you wear a funny costume, one at a huge concert, and of course one inside the Antelope Canyon (see item 60).
94. Have a job you love
Though you don’t need to have a job you absolutely love to be happy, it’s a fulfilling experience. Most people spend forty hours a week doing something that doesn’t really interest them, so add “fulfilling job” to your bucket list.
It doesn’t have to be the job of your dreams — it could be a job you simply enjoy, volunteering, a short internship, or a part time job that allows you to have a better work-life balance.
95. Find your ultimate purpose in life
This may sound very ambitious, but it could be easier than you think. There is no need to have a spiritual experience, or to reach enlightenment, to find your true purpose in life.
Perhaps if you pay attention to your talents, your skills, your personality, the people you surround yourself with, and your big dreams, you can gradually discover why you are here on this planet. Once you do, you will be able to dedicate your energy to your true purpose.
96. Face your fears
We all are afraid of something in our life. Some fears are obvious, and we are 100 percent aware of them (such as the phobia of heights, or the fear of snakes). Others may be more subtle: for example, the fear of not being loved, the fear of losing money, or our insecurities and limiting beliefs.
Whatever it is: face your biggest fears before you die, even if you have to do it gradually, or with the help of a therapist. It takes courage to face and overcome your fears, but once you do, you will feel liberated.
97. Practice gratitude
Even the best trips around the world, the best people, the newest, shiniest objects will not make us happy unless we learn to be grateful. Gratitude is one of the best ways to improve your mood and even your life: when you are grateful, life is good.
One of the easiest ways to practice gratitude is to keep a journal where you write down all the little things you are happy for. You can do this every morning or every night.
98. See the Sea of Stars in Vaadhoo
The Maldives (a group of over a thousand tiny islands across the equator) will amaze you with their clear waters, white powdery sand, and fabulous views.
However what happens on the island of Vaadhoo during the summer is especially beautiful, and should be seen at least once before you die. It’s called the Sea of Stars, and it occurs when the plankton glows. It makes the sea look like a shiny light blue starry sky. Definitely add this to your bucket list.
99. Take a graffiti tour
Street art is usually colorful, unusual, and extremely creative. If you have never taken a street art tour, add it to the list! You’ll be surprised to see how original and intricate some of the graffiti are.
There are many graffiti tours all over the world. Some of the best tours are in New York, Berlin, Bristol, Paris, Mexico City and Bogota. To join, you may have to purchase a ticket, or tip the guide.
100. Experience synchronicity
The last item on this list of things to do before you die is to experience what psychiatrist Carl Jung called synchronicity. Jung believed that some events are connected not by causality, but by meaning.
For example, you may have noticed that whenever you have a certain thought, you see a certain animal, e.g. a butterfly. Or, you may have noticed that whenever you are about to move to a new place, you see a certain number over and over again.
Though these could be simple coincidences, Jung believed synchronicities are far more complex, and may follow a specific law. There is no way to predict when a synchronicity happens, but you can try to pay more attention to the events in your life, and notice if they are connected (happening at the same time) by meaning rather than causality.
100 things to do before you die: download
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