Seven Tips to Help Empty Nesters Write a Bucket List (and Why You Need One!)

I’ll be honest—when my child started packing for university, I wasn’t exactly making exciting plans for myself. I was too busy stuffing their suitcase with snacks and wondering how I’d survive the silence once they were gone. But then, a friend asked me a simple question:

"What’s on your bucket list?"

At first, I laughed. A bucket list? Wasn’t that for people planning epic adventures? I was just trying to figure out what to do with all my extra time. But the more I thought about it, the more I realised—writing a bucket list wasn’t just about big, dramatic goals. It was about rediscovering myself in this new season of life.

A bucket list gives you something to look forward to. It shifts the focus from what’s ending to what’s beginning. It reminds you that your life is still filled with possibility. If you’re feeling a little lost as you approach the empty nest, here’s how to create a list that excites and inspires you.

Start Small—Dreaming Again Takes Practice

If you haven’t thought about your own dreams in years (or decades), it might feel overwhelming to list big, life-changing goals. That’s okay! Start small. Think of something you’ve always wanted to try but never had time for. Maybe it’s a pottery class, learning a new language, or hiking a local trail. Small dreams lead to bigger ones.

Mix Big Adventures with Everyday Joys

Your bucket list doesn’t have to be filled with skydiving and trips to Paris (unless you want it to be!). Balance big, exciting goals with simple joys:

Big dreams: Visit all the states, write a book, learn to surf.
Everyday joys: Watch the sunrise at the beach, try every coffee shop in town, plant a garden.

Both types of experiences will make your life feel full.

Think About What You Missed While Parenting

Let’s be real—parenting took up a lot of time and energy. What got pushed aside? What hobbies, interests, or passions did you put on hold? Maybe you used to love painting, dancing, or road trips with no set destination. Revisit those old loves and see if they still spark something in you. You could use our GUIDE to Living an Intentional Life to help you.

Consider Experiences Over Things

Sure, buying a dream car or renovating the house might be on your list, but don’t forget the power of experiences. Travel, learning new skills, and making memories tend to be the things we cherish most. Instead of asking, What do I want to have? try asking, What do I want to experience?

Include Something That Scares You (Just a Little!)

Growth comes from stepping outside our comfort zones. Maybe it’s speaking in public, taking a solo trip, or finally getting on that rollercoaster your kids used to beg you to ride. Pushing yourself—even in small ways—can bring a sense of accomplishment and excitement. Read this BLOG Post to learn more about mindset.

Write It Down (Yes, Physically Write It Down!)

There’s something powerful about putting pen to paper. Studies show that writing down goals makes you more likely to achieve them. Keep your list somewhere visible—a journal, a vision board, or even sticky notes on the fridge. Let it be a reminder that there’s so much ahead of you. Read more about journaling in this BLOG Post.

Share It with Someone Who Will Cheer You On

Accountability makes a difference. Share your list with a friend, partner, or even your newly independent child. You might even find a bucket list buddy—someone who’s also navigating this stage of life and wants to dream big alongside you. When we spend years caring for our kids, it’s easy to forget that we still have dreams of our own. Writing a bucket list isn’t just about checking things off—it’s about shifting your mindset from loss to possibility.

So grab a notebook, sit in your favourite spot, and start writing. Your next adventure is waiting—you just have to decide where to begin.

From one empty nester to another, you’ve got this.

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Love and Support

Jane