This has been my second time living abroad. A few years ago, I moved to Dubai and back in 2014, me and my husband came to New York City. I’ve always heard stories, seen movies, TV shows, read books, articles about living in the big apple. I guess you can only really experience a city once you’ve lived in it. 2017 marks our third year here. And while I’m overly excited to be beating the terrible 3’s, I also feel like I could’ve seen/done more. Hence, this year, I decided to do a New York bucket list.
Why have a local bucket list? It’s an amazing way to stay motivated towards the place you’re living. I don’t want to take this experience for granted and I don’t want it to be just another city I live in. You have a list of places/things to do to cross off, while staying motivated to explore. It also helps keep things interesting and gives you something to do on the weekends.
On one hand, it something encouraging you to stop making excuses. And what I mean is, reset your “I’ll do it later” attitude. If you have time, do it now. Even if it’s just taking a walk through Central Park, pictures at Times Square or gaze upon the Freedom Tower. They may all sound like silly things to do when you’re living in New York, but they make up for special moments you might not get another chance to do.
Secondly, it helps you feel grateful. Not only for the opportunity you’re having but the experience you’re gaining. You’re never the same person when you live abroad, so be grateful for being able to get to know the city you’re living. Lastly, it helps you improve your hostess skills. When you’re out there, exploring and finding new hidden gems, you can help your guests and make them a local guide. While I love to see the main attractions in a city, I also love to explore the parts no one normally goes.
Having a local bucket list means you get to know the city you live in. Helps you feel inspired by what you see. Makes you realize how much you still have to explore. Helps you keep things fresh and new in your life. I crossed off another thing on my bucket list last weekend. What about you?