Create a Reverse Bucket List

Now that I’m in my mid-fifties, I’ve been thinking a lot more about what I want to let go of in my life rather than what I want to add. I’m calling it my reverse bucket list, and instead of writing down all the things I want to do or add to my life this year, I’m making a list of everything I want to let go of. 

If It Doesn’t Serve You, Let It Go

I started thinking about letting things go after reading a New York Times article about the writer “being done making family dinner every night”. I know I’ve often talked about the benefits of a family dinner, but not if it feels like an obligation that burns you out. There are lots of things people do out of pure habit that may have once served them, but no longer do. Or maybe it’s a responsibility or commitment that no longer aligns with their values. It could even be a thought pattern or belief that keeps you stuck or feeling guilty. 

Here are some great real-life examples of things that I’ve heard people letting go of: 

• “I’m done staying up too late and wondering why I don’t feel good in the morning.”
• “I’m done saying yes to more volunteer work when I’m already overbooked.”
• “I’m done waiting until everything lines up perfectly before I can start something.”

When you eliminate things that aren’t working for you anymore, space magically opens up for the right things to step in. It’s like cleaning out a closet; once the clutter’s gone, it feels better and you finally have room for what actually fits.

What Are You Done With?

I want to challenge you to write down three things you’re done with this year: 

• One habit that doesn’t support your goals
• One obligation that no longer fits your priorities
• One belief that keeps you stuck or second-guessing yourself

If it feels a little uncomfortable, that’s okay. Letting go is often one of the best ways to move forward. For me, I’m letting go of other people’s expectations of how I spend my time. I’ve also decided that I’m not going to make a proper dinner unless I want to. My family is busy, the kids are much older, and sometimes, I just don’t want to cook. I still make dinner most nights (I’ve got to eat, too!), but sometimes I tell everyone they are on their own. 

I’m also thinking about some bigger, broader things I want to let go of, but that’s for another time. I’d love to hear what you’re putting to the side this year; don’t be afraid to share!