A bucket list doesn’t always have to be about checking off grand adventures before a certain time in your life—it’s really just about dreaming, planning, and reminding yourself of the things that make life exciting and meaningful. Whether it’s something small or something that feels wildly out of reach, writing it down gives it space to grow.

I once had a bucket list inside a jar, but I lost it during a move. So this is my chance to start again—and maybe it's yours too. Here are three fun and creative ways to make your own bucket list, each one as unique as you are.

1. The Bucket List Jar

This one is perfect if you want your list to feel more interactive and tangible. All you need is a jar (any kind will do—I'm personally using a decorated jar I once made for my Jar of Joy. If you’re curious about that idea, click here to check out that blog post too!).

How to Do It:

• Write each dream or goal on its own little slip of paper or cut-out shape.
  

• Fold them up and drop them in the jar.
  

• Decorate your jar with stickers, paint, labels, or ribbon to make it feel personal and special.
  
  

Why It’s Fun:

• You can randomly pull one out when you're looking for inspiration.
  

• It adds a physical, playful element to your goals.
  
  

Examples:

• Ride a horse for the first time
  

• Try surfing
  

• Recreate your grandma’s famous lasagna
  

• Learn how to juggle
  
  

2. The Illustrated Journal Spread

If you're more of a journal person, creating a dedicated bucket list spread in your journal can be a beautiful and reflective way to visualize your dreams.

How to Do It:

• Use one or two pages to list your dreams.
  

• Add doodles, decorative lettering, or small sketches to illustrate the ideas.
  

• Use colorful pens, markers, or washi tape to decorate your spread.
  
  

Why It’s Fun:

• You can come back to it and add more details over time.
  

• It becomes a visual story of what you hope to experience.
  
  

Examples:

• Go to Japan and eat fresh sushi
  

• Host a themed dinner party with friends
  

• Visit a sunflower field in bloom
  

• Bake a three-layer cake from scratch
  
  

3. The Bucket List Deck

If you love the idea of having something tactile and portable, creating a personalized deck of bucket list cards might be just your thing.

How to Do It:

• Use small index cards, cardstock, or even cut up an old deck of playing cards.
  

• On each card, write down one thing you want to do.
  

• You can decorate each card with drawings, washi tape, stickers, or even a photo that represents your dream.
  

• Hole punch the corners and keep them together on a ring—or store them in a special box.
  
  

Why It’s Fun:

• You can shuffle through them, rearrange them, or pull one at random when you're ready for your next adventure.
  

• It’s a great way to physically hold and flip through your dreams like a mini inspiration deck.
  
  

Examples:

• Try a pottery class
  

• Visit a national park you’ve never been to
  

• Cook that amazing pasta dish you tried in your travels
  

• Dance barefoot under the stars
  
  

Why Bucket Lists Are Helpful (and Not Scary!)

The idea of a "bucket list" can sometimes feel overwhelming, like a countdown or pressure to do something "before it's too late." But it doesn’t have to be that way. Think of it more as a joy list—a collection of experiences, dreams, and little goals that excite you.

Some things may happen next week, others in ten years. Some may change over time. And that’s okay. What matters is that you’re acknowledging what lights you up inside.

Your list can include:

• Big adventures (like skydiving or traveling abroad)
  

• Small personal goals (like learning to knit or making a family recipe)
  

• Silly things just for fun (like singing karaoke or dancing in the rain)
  

Ready to start your own bucket list?

I'd love to hear how you decide to do it—and what fun dreams you're planning to chase! Leave a comment below or share your bucket list creations with me on Instagram using #DIYwithmata.