9 Things You Should Add to Your Career Bucket List, ASAP

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Fairygodboss
Updated: 3/9/2020
What's one way to hold ourselves accountable for actually doing the thing we say we're going to? That's right — a bucket list! 
You probably have sky diving and visiting an elephant sanctuary on yours (I have meeting Rihanna face-to-face on mine). But why wait till your work shift's over to make your way through your list? 
If the point of a bucket list is to reach fulfillment, then you can start checking things off as soon as right now.

1. Clarify what you want.

It's important to define what you want for yourself because it'll serve as the foundation for all that you'll do. This begins with envisioning who you want to be and comes true when you set actionable goals that align with your vision. 
Be open throughout this process as it may come to you as pictures, feelings or words, first. When you're ready to crystallize these symbols, consider creating a vision board and setting measurable goals to hold yourself accountable for reaching your highest potential.

2. Attend a conference. 

Conferences are a great way to connect with like-minded professionals and build a solid network. They're also an opportunity to humble brag and promote your expertise to potential employers. 
Some common conference pros are the free swag, the luncheon intermissions and signed book copies from the speakers themselves. While you're at it, consider speaking on a panel at the next one!

3. Complete a course.

You don't need to be enrolled in an institution to keep learning. There's always room to enhance your skill set, and there are plenty of classes you can take to advance your career. Public speaking classes, for example, can be beneficial to new managers, teachers and CEOs. 
Unlike grade school or undergrad, the classes you take are entirely up to you. Even your location is your choice, as many classes are offered online and can be completed in the office or the comfort of your home.

4. Relocate or work remotely.

If you've ever worked from home, then you probably know how pleasant it can be to kick your feet up and get to work with your pet by your side. And if your daydreams include drinking Colombian coffee in well — Colombia, then consider relocating for some time (or forever, if you find a great match!) 
Add "Open to Relocate" to your resume as you job search and negotiate a compensation package before accepting an offer abroad. After all, the fun in seeing the world is in living in it! 

5. Take some time off.

Work should be enjoyable, but don't forget you have a whole life outside the office. Get some fresh air by planning a weekend getaway with friends or indulge in your paid time off. For those ready to settle down, ask your company about its maternity and paternity leave policies. 
Don't forget to prioritize your wellness, too, as it sets the tone for your work and play. Claim your sick days unapologetically and commit to getting better, so you can go back to doing what you're best at.

6. Learn another language.

Did you know that multilingualism is an asset to the workplace? And do you know why? It's because knowing more than one language equips you with the cognitive skills necessary to create global solutions, reason diversely and pioneer international relations with potential or existing partners. 
Learning another language isn't reserved for ethnic vernaculars. It can include integrating dialects, cultural discourse and bodily expression to your speech. Still, the case and point stays the same: knowing more than one language can help you get ahead in your career.

7. Celebrate the holidays.

Loosen up your work life by celebrating the holidays when they roll around. Secretly pass a birthday card around the office for a coworker or show up to a holiday party, if even for a little while. Also consider joining a protest during Black History Month or Instagramming it up on nationwide holidays, like National Donut Day and National Siblings Day.
We encourage you to trick or treat, spread the love and be merry all year round. But do remember to be respectful of others when observing federal holidays by appreciating their ethnic cultures appropriately.

8. Become a mentor.

Consider yourself an expert in your field since you landed the position you currently have, and use that expertise to mentor college students or entry-level professionals interested in your field. 
Becoming a mentor is an excellent opportunity to give back to your community, further establish your professionalism and master your skills to a point of transference. You can get yourself set up with an organization like America Needs You, or go local by spreading knowledge to the youth in your personal periphery.

9. Land your dream job.

Don't be afraid to shoot for the moon if you have a dream job in mind. Consider a career change if you're not yet where you want to be or check out our jobs page to find the best companies for women.
If you don't have a dream job in mind, lean into the energy you like to feel and the company you like to surround yourself with; you'll be sure to find a pattern in your thoughts and actions that will reveal the professional path that's ahead.
Change it up: "How to Change Careers"
Some honorary mentions worth adding to your bucket list are to request a raise and ask for a promotion, though, both should already have a place on your existing will-do list. 
And before you go, we encourage you to create a life you love and we're here to support your professional pursuits. Let us know what you plan to add to or check off from your list in the the comments below!

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Stephanie Nieves is the SEO & Editorial Associate on the Fairygodboss team. Her words can also be found on MediumPayScale and The Muse.

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