Forget Resolutions, Get Rebellious: Our Workshop’s Approach to Living a Year Unleashed

Ninth Koi
4 min readDec 21, 2023
The Closet of Life, featuring the Sparkly Cape of Courage and the Boots of Bravery

The Prelude to Adventure

Once upon a time, before the world turned into a sci-fi pandemic movie, I had this ritual— creating an experiential bucket list every year. It was like my personal crystal ball, showing a future filled with wild adventures and “Did I really do that?” moments. Post-pandemic, I realised I missed the crazy thrill of jumping into the unknown. So, what did I do? I decided to drag some brave souls along with me on this year’s bucket list escapade!

What’s a Bucket List Without Some Pizzazz?

Now, let’s clear the air: this isn’t your grandma’s bucket list. No siree! We’re talking about experiences, not monetary gains or losing weight. This bucket list is about getting out of your comfort zone and trying things that might excite you and terrify you simultaneously. It’s designed for personal growth.

The Big Day: We assembled on Zoom and we were ready; ready to dive into the unknown.

1. The Warm-Up Gossip Session: We kicked off with a chit-chat session that felt like a virtual coffee date. Everyone shared bits of their lives, from job updates to surviving workplace dramas.

2. The Great Vision Quest: Next up, the guided visualisation — where I painted a vivid picture, you could almost touch the ‘Closet of Life’ and wear the ‘Sparkly Cape of Courage’ and ‘Boots of Bravery.’ Just as we were getting lost in this imaginary world, my dogs decided to join the fun with a low growl. Spoiler alert: they didn’t bark. Phew!

3. Bucket List Brainstorm Bonanza: Then came the brainstorming bit, where we tossed around ideas like a salad — everything from mantra singing to silent retreats. I mean, who wouldn’t want to learn improv comedy or go kite surfing (without becoming shark bait, of course)?

4. The “Oh No, What If…” Discussions: We got real, too, discussing our fears. Like, should I sign up for that herbalism course and potentially unleash my inner witch? It was all about balancing the “yikes” (like my idea of going camping by myself) with the “yes!” (letting go of the idea of being perfect at everything).

5. The Farewell: Keep Calm and Bucket List On: As we wrapped up (with Zoom’s timer ticking like a time bomb), we promised to keep in touch and share our bucket list triumphs. It was like saying goodbye at summer camp, but with WiFi.

Post-Workshop Musings: This workshop wasn’t just about ticking off wild things to do. It was about pushing boundaries, giggling in the face of fear, and maybe, just maybe, finding a new hobby that doesn’t involve Netflix.

What I Learned (Apart from remembering to put the dogs in a soundproof room): Flexibility is key — whether it’s dealing with tech glitches or impromptu canine appearances. And there’s nothing like a group of folks bonding over shared dreams and the occasional “You’re on Mute!”

The Crystal Ball Gaze: Looking ahead, I’m buzzing with ideas for more workshops. Maybe one where we actually meet in person and compare notes on whether we survived our bucket list adventures! Or if we are local to one another, actually meeting up and doing an experience together.

A Hearty Thanks: A massive shoutout to everyone who joined. Your stories, your laughter, and your “I’m gonna do it” spirit were the real highlights of the workshop. I can’t wait to hear all about your escapades and misadventures.

So, here’s to more wild plans, hilarious hiccups, and making memories that’ll make our future selves say, “We were pretty awesome back then, huh?”

Cheers to our next adventure, in sweatpants or armour, with a bucket list in one hand and a sense of humour in the other!

So, You’re Feeling a Wee Bit Jealous, Huh?

Hey, I totally get it. Reading about our wild bucket list adventures might have you turning a lovely shade of ‘wish-I-was-there’ green. But fear not, my adventurous friend! While I can’t magically beam you back in time to join our laughter-filled workshop (still working on that time machine), I’ve got the next best thing.

🌟 Your Ticket to Bucket List Bliss

Grab your very own copy of our Bucket List Workbook — the same one that sparked so many “aha” moments and daring dreams during our workshop. It’s packed with all the juicy prompts, inspiring exercises, and a few chuckles to boot.

Here’s How:

  1. Download the Bucket List Workbook here from my website (Ninthkoi.com.au).

Why Wait for ‘Someday’? This is your chance to craft a year so full of “I can’t believe I did that” moments that future you will be high-fiving you in gratitude. And hey, if you end up trying something as wild as improv comedy or as serene as a silent retreat, I want to hear all about it!

Don’t just daydream about adventures — make them your reality. Your future self is already thanking you!

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Ninth Koi

Coach & writer on neurodiversity & change. Empowering 30+ individuals to thrive. Get my Free eGuide Let's embrace life's transitions together!