Last September I made a list of 100 things I want to do, as part of the homework for my positive psychology program.

This idea wasn’t new to me and it probably isn’t new to you either, but it’s the first time I’ve ever completed the list.

I spent about a week adding things until I got to 100.

A few weeks later, I mentioned the list to my family and several of them decided to make their own lists while we sat on the back porch together.

Doing it as a family group led to interesting conversations. We also ended up planning a dinner out together at Christmas time, where we dressed up and went to a nice restaurant. We called it Family Fancy Feast.

We never would have thought to do that without making the 100 list, because dressing up and going to a high end restaurant is out of character for us 😉 But we had a blast!

I’ve checked off several things that I probably wouldn’t have thought to do if I hadn’t put them on the list.

I also led one of my high school classes through this activity and they really liked it too. For some of them, the list making came easy. Others had a harder time getting into a creative mode with it.

Why you should make your own list of 100

Your list will expand your life.

It’s an opportunity to think of both big and small things you want to do.

It’s a way to give yourself something to aim for, but it feels different than setting goals.

You can use it to enhance your relationships with others, by adding activities you’d like to do with friends and family.

It’s good to consider what you really like to do and what you want to try.

Categories to consider when making your list

• What are some things you’ve always wanted to do?
• Are there certain milestones or achievements you want to hit?
• List any travel you’d like to do.
• What childhood dreams would you like to complete?
• Are there adventures you’d like to take?
• Do you have things you’d like to learn or topics you’d like to explore?
• Are there famous people you’d like to meet or hear speak in person?
• What silly things would you like to try?
• What outrageous things would you like to try?
• What are your deep values and spiritual beliefs? Are there things you’d like to do that would enhance your beliefs.
• Do you have someone you need to forgive?
• What about finding love?
• Or building friendships?
• If you die tonight, what would you most want to have experienced, or said, or seen or accomplished?

After you complete your list

Keep your 100 list in a place where you can find it again and read over it every once in a while.

Grab your calendar and add a few things from your list to your plans.

Check off things as you do them.

Revise your list as needed. It’s a good idea to make it a living document.

What do you think?

Have you tried making your own 100 list or do you think you’ll give it a try? What kinds of things will you add. Share in the comments.