Tuesday, June 29, 2010

Experiences versus Numbers

My friend Katie tweeted this the other day: "i'm experiencing life. you're numbing yours. how's that working out for you?"

It got me thinking -- Why do we do this? I know of so m
any bloggers that have life lists or 101 in 1001 lists. Is it just our innate need to put things down in written form? Are we all obsessive planners?

And really, is there a difference? I'm not not experiencing life just because I have a list, am I? Does having a list take away some of the experience? Sure, it may take away some of the spontaneity (i.e. I know the next 25 books I'm reading), but I'm still experiencing it, right?

I think I have my lists partially because I'm an organizational freak and I'm in the middle of a time in my life where I'm seeking direction. I don't plan obsessively, but it's nice to think, "Oh hey, I should go to New Orleans this summer and cross #5 off my list and finally see that place like I've always wanted to!" Because I really don't know if/when I'd do it otherwise. Honestly I kind of think if I didn't have a list of shit I wanted to accomplish before I died (or whatever), I'd never get anything done. Also, though, I just really freaking love making lists.

That being said, here's an ultra glamorous life list (so far; it'll grow as I do, I'm sure). I don't know how or when any of these things will happen, but I'm going to make them happen when I can.

#1: Stay in a Hard Rock Hotel.

#2: Have drinks in an ice bar.

#3: Take a trip to Bora Bora.

#4: Travel alone.

#5: Be part of one of Improv Everywhere's No Pants Subway Rides

#6: Go to the Olympics.

Do you have anything you really really want to do in life?


3 comments:

  1. I understand what you are going through. I bought a book at "Francesca's collections" called, 1000 places to see before you die. I get rather happy when I can cross one of them off.

    I'm glad I inspired you :)

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  2. I agree! I want to go to Bora Bora as well.

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  3. I am a list maker. It helps me to stay on track and keeps me inspired. About 5 years back I made a list of the 5 most important things I wanted from life. It has been a powerful motivation for me.

    Your list is fantastic, btw, esp #5.

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