I love lists. They help me get things done, get thoughts out of my head and onto paper, and shape the kind of future I want to create. When something lives only in my mind – it’s just an idea, but when I write it down, it becomes real. It takes form. And more often than not, it actually happens.



And there’s science to back this up. For example, a study from the Dominican University found that writing down your goals significantly increases the chances of achieving them. That likelihood increases even further when accountability and commitment are thrown into the mix. But even if just writing your goals down takes you one step closer to making them happen. Why wouldn’t you?


Let’s face it: our lives are filled with noise. We’re bombarded with things to do, our attention spans are shrinking, and with around 70,000 thoughts running through our brains each day, we need ways to cut through the mental clutter and reconnect with what truly matters.



Maybe you’re at a stage in life where you’ve spent decades looking after others, working hard, or simply getting by. But when was the last time you did something just for you? What sets your heart on fire? What does freedom look like for you? Have you thought what brings you joy? Have you ever even stopped to ask?



If not – that’s exactly what this post is here to spark.



Where It All Began

In my 30s, I wrote a blog post titled Forty Things Before I’m Forty – a list of everything I wanted to do or try before hitting the big 4-0. It included the weird, the wacky, the bold, the big and the small. Did I tick off every one? No. But I gave it a good go – and I had a lot of fun in the process.



Looking back, I completed about 60% of that list. But if I hadn’t taken the time to reflect and write it all down, I wouldn’t have had anything to aim for – no benchmark, no clarity, and no idea what I truly wanted.



That’s why goal-setting – or creating that dream/bucket list – matters. Because we don’t often stop and ask ourselves what we want. Even if you’re someone who reflects regularly, it’s always powerful to revisit that question with fresh eyes.



Redefining Freedom



Freedom in this next chapter of life doesn’t have to be radical. You don’t have to bungee jump or go wild swimming naked (though you absolutely can if that’s your thing!). Freedom is personal. It can be peaceful, playful, silly, soulful – it’s whatever feels right for you.



This list is a start, a commitment to yourself and your happiness, written one month at a time. It gives you something to focus on each month for the next 60 months (or five years). And if you skip a month? No guilt. The process of reflecting and writing is super powerful on its own.

This isn’t a manual – it’s a guide. It’s permission to start living as your most authentic, free and liberated self.

How It Works



The idea is simple: write down 60 things you want to do, try, experience, or feel in the next 60 months. Commit to exploring one thing per month for the next five years.



Some months might be bold – like booking your first solo trip. Others might be soft and simple – like finally trying that new café or drinking a cup of tea alone with no distractions.



There are no rules. Only that you honour your freedom, curiosity, and joy.



Let’s Get Started



Step 1: Get Prepped


Grab a notebook, pen, or your laptop. Find somewhere distraction-free – your garden, a quiet café, or your favourite park.



Step 2: Set a Timer


Give yourself 25 minutes of pure focus. No emails, no kids or grandkids, no phone scrolling. This time is just for you.



Step 3: Start Writing 


Think about things you’ve always wanted to do – big or small. Things that bring joy, spark curiosity, or push you gently out of your comfort zone.



Here are some prompts to get the juices flowing:


1. What have I always wanted to try?

2. What part of myself have I lost touch with?

3. What makes me feel free?



Some ideas to get the ball rolling:

• Read outside
• Swim at sunrise
• Buy yourself your favourite flowers
• Start a journal 
• Try a dance class 
• Learn a new language
• Cook something totally new
• Start learning an instrument
• Visit a museum or art gallery
• Go on a retreat
• Try therapy 
• Explore a new city or country
• Say no unapologetically
• Wear something bold
• Write a letter to your younger self
• Let go of a belief holding you back (limiting belief)
• Take a digital detox for a day or a few hours (don’t use your phone, laptop etc. and just be present)
• Try something you’ve always said “I could never do”
• Paint your feelings
• Reconnect with an old friend
• Volunteer

Once your 25 minutes is up, take a short 5-minute break. If you’re not finished, go again – or come back to it later. The goal is to complete your list of 60 and start gently ticking off one item per month.

Let’s Have a Conversation:

So how did you get on? Did you enjoy the exercise? I’d love to know – what’s one thing you plan to do in the next 60 months just for you?