Is there a difference between a goal and bucket list, or are they the same thing?
You’ll often see these two terms used interchangeably, but they are very different.
What is A Goal?
Several things need to be present to be considered a goal:
-Achievable
-Written down
-Very specific
-Has a deadline
-Action steps to achieve
-Celebrated once you’ve reached your goal
What is a Bucket List?
“Bucket list” is possibly derived from the English idiom – ‘to kick the bucket”. It’s a list of all the things you want to achieve, dreams you want to fulfill and life experiences you desire to experience before you die. It usually doesn’t have a timeline.
What makes a Bucket List?
-no deadline
-should be specific, but not necessary. Example, if you want to go to Greece, you would include information on where you plan to stay, who you will travel with, your budget, how long you’ll be there and places you want to visit while there. Many list vague items, but if you want a higher level of success….Be Specific.
-Celebrated once achieved
Consider Making a Separate Bucket List Board
A fun idea for your bucket list items is to create a separate, smaller dream board that focuses completely on your future dream. Since buckets lists don’t have a deadline, you can leave this board up until you’ve all the items have been completed. Include photos and as many details as possible. Place where you see it often.
What is a Stretch Goal?
An additional goal you set for yourself when you exceed your initial goal. This enables you to push your limits.should be achievable, but not have a guarantee of success.
I have a friend who’s a real estate agent and last year she set a pretty lofty stretch goal. It wasn’t something she was intentional about, but she knew if she achieved it was definitely something she would celebrate. At the end of the year, she was $4k shy of her stretch goal, definitely something to be excited about. When she went to set her goals for the upcoming year, last year’s stretch goal became her new regular goal!
As you’re working on your goals and dreams for the next 12 months, be sure to separate the goals from the bucket list items and document them accordingly. Now that you know the difference, it makes it easier to work through the details on your vision/dream board.