Chapter 1: The Value of a Bucket List

What’s the purpose of maintaining a bucket list? It’s time to seize the moment and dive in!

Photo by Author: Pyramid of the Sun, City of Teotihuacán, Mexico.

I challenge you to tackle the first item on your bucket list without hesitation! It adds a layer of thrill and excitement to life, wouldn’t you agree?

While some experiences might seem daunting, you won't know if it’s enjoyable until you give it a shot. As long as it's safe and legal, why not take the leap?

Traveling abroad has always been at the top of my ambitions. However, the idea of solo travel wasn’t initially on my agenda. Surprisingly, it crept in, and I decided to embrace it. Although I can’t classify it as a goal, I welcomed the challenge.

Initially, it filled me with dread, but that didn’t stop me. I faced my fears—and emerged victorious. Inspired by that triumph in 2023, I set off for Ciudad de México (Mexico City) in search of new adventures.

And let me tell you, I was grateful for overcoming my fears! The city was brimming with discoveries, and during my three-month stay, I wanted to explore every corner at once. Yet, I learned to take my time.

Like every other region on our planet, Mexico showcases the rich tapestry of the diverse cultures that have shaped it. Its mountains, valleys, and coasts tell stories of ancient civilizations like the Maya and Aztec, illustrated by the breathtaking Pyramid of the Sun in the historic city of Teotihuacán. Nearby, you can also find the smaller Pyramid of the Moon.

Photo by Author: Pyramid of the Moon, City of Teotihuacán, Mexico.

The impact of Spanish colonization is evident in Mexico City’s plazas and cathedrals, with European influences still prominent in modern urban areas.

Photo by Author: Centro (Historic Center), Ciudad de México.

As with other culturally rich landscapes, Mexico's art, cuisine, architecture, language, and customs narrate its history and evolution.

Photo by Author: World Trade Center (WTC), Colonia Napoles, Ciudad de México.

Photo by Author of a typical apartment building in the neighborhood of Napoles, taken opposite TRYP by Wyndham Hotel.

Photo by Author: Museo Soumaya, Polanco, Ciudad de México.

Ciudad de México is not just a historical gem; it’s also a bustling modern metropolis, complete with shopping malls, subways, and heavy traffic. I quickly discovered that navigating both the subway and Uber rides was an adventure in itself. I found myself reflecting on life during intense Uber rides and feeling trapped in the heat of crowded subway cars.

In those moments, I vowed never to use Uber or the subway in Mexico City again; yet, that promise was fleeting, as I was always eager for the next adventure.

What did my journey to Mexico teach me? Experience a place or country for yourself; don’t merely rely on others’ opinions. Each person’s encounter is distinct, and you might find something entirely different from what others have described. A location that someone else disliked could become your new favorite spot. Until you go and experience it firsthand, you can’t truly understand its essence.

The same goes for meeting people. It's easy to form judgments based on others' views, but every individual has a unique relationship with others. Someone’s perception of a particular group may be skewed by their own biases or experiences. Engaging with others and immersing yourself in their customs not only allows you to see them in their context but also provides an invaluable firsthand experience.

Are you prepared to start crafting your own adventures?

Stop living through the narratives of others.

Set your own goals and create a bucket list.

This is the only genuine way to navigate life.

Written by Yosei @ DBRPub | dbrpub.com.

More about making goals:

A Guide to Setting Goals

Mini workshop | Module 2

Chapter 2: Why You Should Have a Bucket List

In this TEDx talk, Tanisha Singh explores the importance of having a bucket list and how it can inspire you to live a fuller life.

This video presents ten compelling reasons to create a bucket list, encouraging viewers to embrace new experiences and adventures.