Five ‘bucket list’ goals that have shaped my life
What was that film called where two older men in hospital created a bucket list of things they wanted to do before they died? Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman starred in it… it’ll come to me… Around that time, “What’s on your bucket list?” became a common question, a way of talking about life goals and purpose, to avoid looking back on life in regret. Even in our twenties, it made my friends and I think about the big things we wanted from life.
Looking back without regret This phrase reminds me of an elderly couple I cared for in Haddenham, UK, in my mid-twenties. I lived in their beautiful, ancient home and worked as their cooking, company and conversational carer. They spoke of their life stories and of things they wished they’d done, places they’d wanted to see. Those conversations reinforced something for me: I wanted a life that, one day, I’d look back on with pride and pleasure, not regret. That way of thinking still guides me whenever I make important decisions.
My own five life goals Fast-forward to the current century. When my youngest was a baby, I wrote a list of five bucket list goals, imagining myself in old age, looking back. To my surprise, I had already achieved three of them (a slightly retrospective list in that sense):
Meeting and marrying my wonderful husband How amazing to find someone who took my breath away, made my heart beat faster, and who has become a wonderful father; someone I am so proud of, and whose clever brain answers the questions I have about life, the universe and everything;
Having our babies together and being the kind of mother I could be proud of This is a big part of my ongoing motherhood story. As a teenager, I remember being treated unfairly and thinking that one day I would give my children so much love and kindness);
Living overseas I’d already had the amazing adventure of living in the UK and Hong Kong, and as a family we would later live in France (the expat life is a whole other thing!). Those experiences did and would shape my view of the world and develop who I am.
Emotional health and stability - number four Over many years, with the help of an insightful GP and psychiatrist, I’ve managed to (mostly) smooth out what was once a terrifying rollercoaster ride. I don’t say this lightly or tritely, but I always knew that my emotional health was at jeopardy, from as early as I can remember, and although challenges still appear, I now know who to talk to and how to shift those unhelpful inner voices. The relief is absolutely enormous (see below for some helpful NZ contacts if you’re needing mental health help).
Number five: starting a business called “Sara Meade Design” And here I am, living creatively! Launching my own creative business has pushed me in good ways, and thankfully I can work within the limits of my physical challenges. My daughter’s clever computer-design skills (she’s fabulous!), a bit more life experience and wisdom, plus AI taking my old job (see my previous post) have all played a part. It has has been both s t r e t c h i n g and thrilling, and seeing people enjoy my creative prints, cards, and felt designs brings me much joy. I’ve found that it’s a blend of courage and creativity to start something new, and as a comfortable introvert, it’s incredibly challenging doing the people-facing stuff!
In summary, this list encapsulates me today: 1. love; 2. motherhood; 3. travel; 4. emotional health; and 5. sarameadedesign.com. Oh, and that movie I couldn’t remember? The Bucket List (2007). Of course. Doh!
If you’d like to browse my elegant prints, handcrafted cards, or exquisite felt pieces, visit my shop. You’ll find new releases, popular favourites, and specials for BLACK FRIDAY (extended until 5 December). My 2026 calendars are selling fast - get yours now!!
Mental Health Awareness: If anything here stirred something in your own wellbeing or mental health, please reach out.
Support is available 24/7, and talking to someone can make all the difference.
Dial 111 for urgent help or go to your nearest Emergency Department
Free call or text 1737 to talk with a trained counsellor
Free call Lifeline 0800 543 354 or text 4357 (HELP)
Free call Youthline 0800 376 633 or text 234
Free call Samaritans 0800 726 666 for anyone feeling lonely or distressed
Pure loveliness!
And how wonderful that I grew this pansy myself (which means that it was self-sown from last year’s amazing pansy patch). Having flowers from the garden in beautiful flea-market-found vases around the house really brings me happiness. I hope it does for you too!
Best wishes, Sara x
