Today’s piece comes from a comment by Gary Ostrom, a friend of mine. In response to my article about How to Die Without Regrets, he wrote that after a health scare, he “decided to change “Bucket List” into my “Make it So’ list – bought my cello and became a whole lot more candid about my feelings for others.”
From Collecting to Implementing
I love learning from the wisdom of others, and I found Gary’s comment inspiring. Many of us have a Bucket List, or more accurately a ‘maybe someday’ list. By turning over the bucket and implementing a ‘Make It So’ list, Gary intentionally made space for his dreams in reality.
There is no dithering, no hesitation in the phrase ‘make it so’. It assumes the outcome because the author intends to ‘make’ it happen. Gary gathered the tools (bought a cello), learned to play, and set up regular practice time.
There is another clue in his comment. He intentionally became “a whole lot more candid about my feelings for others.” Expressing one’s feelings in a healthy manner instead of holding them in is another pillar in keeping mentally healthy.
Don’t Wait
There is even a cautionary bit in Gary’s tale – one I hope we all learn from. His revelation and changes came after a health scare. I was also motivated to change because of a health scare. For those with a bucket list and good health, I encourage you to pay attention to Gary’s words and take the following actions:
- Move dreams from your Bucket List to your Make it So list. Gather equipment or tools, learn, practice. Implement into your calendar and your life.
- Express yourself. Life is short. Tell friends and family how you feel.
- Do it before a health scare. Do it Now. Make it So.