As men, fathers and/or husbands we all strive to live life to the fullest and seek out experiences that challenge, inspire, and fulfill us. In this article, we have compiled a list of 153+ things every man should experience before he dies.
From adventurous awesomeness to personal growth, these experiences will broaden your eyes, ignite your passion, and leave you with unforgettable memories. So, without further ado, here is the ultimate bucket list for men.
Please go through this list at your own pace. How many of these have you already done? The worst thing you can do is to wait to do these… So get out soon and get a few of these done. Come on, it’s time to learn how to sew or Tango.
An Awesome List of Things that Men Should Do Before They Die
1. Live in a Foreign Country
One of the best things you can do for yourself is live in a whole other country. Dip your toes in a different culture, learn a new language, and gain a fresh perspective on life. I did this 25 years ago… I never looked back.
2. Take a Solo Trip
The best way to get to know yourself is to go on an exciting journey alone, discover new destinations, and gain independence and self-confidence. This must be on your to-do lists before you get married and have children.
3. Experience the Joy of Living on Your Own
Learn to be self-reliant, embrace solitude, and cultivate a sense of independence.
4. Embrace Failure
Hug failure, learn from your mistakes, and use setbacks as opportunities for growth.
5. Spend Time Completely Surrounded by Nature
Disconnect from technology, explore the great outdoors, and experience the tranquility of nature.
6. Do Something Extreme
Challenge yourself physically and mentally, whether it’s bungee jumping, paragliding, skydiving or running a marathon!
7. Have Your Heart Broken into a Million Pieces
Learn from past relationships, grow emotionally, and discover the strength to heal and move on.
8. Learn a New Skill
Expand your knowledge and capabilities by learning to play an instrument, speak a new language, or develop a new hobby. Learn new things yearly to be the best person you can be.
9. Volunteer and Give Back
Make a difference in your community, lend a helping hand, and experience the joy of selfless acts. Get a good friend involved and see where it leads you.
10. Start Your Own Business
Take a leap of faith, pursue your passion, and experience the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship. Do you have a good idea for a biz venture? Just fucking do it!
11. Travel to Remote and Exotic Destinations
Explore breathtaking landscapes, drown yourself in different cultures, and create lifelong memories. Get on a plane to anywhere a long way from home. You’ll thank yourself in the future.
12. Master a Physical Discipline
Is being an MMA fighter on your wish list? Well…maybe not…Whether it’s martial arts, yoga, or weightlifting, achieve mastery over your body and cultivate discipline and resilience.
13. Attend a Retreat or Seminar for Personal Growth
Invest in your personal development, gain new insights, and connect with like-minded individuals. How about booking a temple stay somewhere in Asia? Incredible experience.
14. Learn to Cook
Discover the essential life skill of cooking. Impress friends and loved ones, and feed your body and soul with some noodles and dumplings and other cool new items you’d like to know how to cook.
15. Read Widely and Expand Your Mind
Open your mind to literature, explore different genres, and broaden your perspective through the power of words. Reading did not stop in high school or university. Reading is a great thing to do to upgrade your life.
16. Develop a Unique Style
Express your individuality through fashion, experiment with different looks, and cultivate your personal style.
17. Take a Road Trip
Hit the open road, explore new destinations, see different things, and create unforgettable memories with friends or loved ones.
18. Face Your Fears
Confront your fears head-on, whether it’s public speaking, heights, or trying something completely out of your comfort zone.
19. Learn to Play a Team Sport
Experience the camaraderie of teamwork, develop leadership skills, and stay physically active.
20. Attend a Major Sporting Event
Immerse yourself in the energy and excitement of a live sports event, whether it’s the Super Bowl, World Cup, or Olympics. I’ve seen the 2002 World Cup here in Korea as well as the Pyeongchang Olympics of 2018, awesome time to be alive!
Good Things Are Brewing!
21. Get Involved in Philanthropy
Make a positive impact on society, support causes you believe in, and leave a lasting legacy.
22. Learn to Dance
Find your inner rhythm, improve coordination, and experience the joy of movement.
23. Learn Survival Skills
Prepare yourself for any situation,learn basic survival skills such as navigation, building shelter, and starting a fire.
24. Learn to Meditate
Cultivate mindfulness, reduce stress, and find inner peace through the practice of meditation.
25. Take a Digital Detox
Disconnect from technology, embrace solitude, and reconnect with the present moment.
26. Learn to Fix Things
Develop practical skills by learning to fix common household items, cars, or electronics.
27. Attend a Music Festival
Immerse yourself in the power of live music, connect with fellow music lovers, and create unforgettable memories.
28. Learn to Defend Yourself
Take self-defense classes, gain confidence, and learn to protect yourself and others.
29. Learn to Budget and Manage Your Finances
Take control of your financial future, learn to budget, save, and invest wisely.
30. Learn to Give and Receive Constructive Feedback
Develop effective communication skills, foster meaningful relationships, and grow personally and professionally.
31. Learn a Traditional Craft or Art Form
Explore traditional crafts such as woodworking, pottery, or painting, and tap into your creative side.
32. Volunteer Abroad
Throw yourself in a different culture, make a difference in disadvantaged communities, and gain a global perspective. You’ll have good times and probably make some best friends along the way.
33. Learn to Play Poker
Master the art of bluffing, develop strategic thinking skills, and enjoy friendly competition with a friend or two.
34. Learn to Negotiate
Develop negotiation skills, whether it’s in business, personal relationships, or everyday situations.
35. Learn to Forgive
Let go of resentment and grudges, cultivate compassion, and experience the freedom that comes with forgiveness.
36. Take Up Photography
Capture the beauty of the world through the lens, develop your creative eye, and create lasting memories.
37. Learn to Surf
Ride the waves, connect with nature, and experience the thrill of catching the perfect wave.
38. Learn to Grow Your Own Food
Start a garden, cultivate your own vegetables, and experience the satisfaction of growing your own food.
More Things Every Man Should Experience
Learn How To…
39. Play Chess
Develop strategic thinking, improve memory and concentration, and enjoy the timeless game of chess.
40. Dress Well
Cultivate your personal style, dress with confidence, and make a lasting impression with your appearance.
41. Perform Magic Tricks
Amaze and entertain others with your sleight-of-hand skills, and embrace the joy of wonder and surprise.
42. Mix Cocktails
Become a skilled mixologist, impress friends with your cocktail creations, and enjoy your drink of choice. Rum and Coke, please!
43. Write Poetry
Express your emotions through the power of words, explore your creativity, and discover the beauty of poetry.
44. Paint or Draw
Tap into your artistic side, express yourself through visual art, and unleash your creativity.
45. Play a Musical Instrument
Experience the joy of creating music, express yourself through sound, and develop a lifelong passion.
46. Appreciate Fine Wine
Expand your taste buds, explore different wine regions, and learn to savor the nuances of fine wine.
47. Cook a Signature Dish
Master the art of preparing a signature dish that reflects your cooking style. Check these out!
48. Practice Mindfulness
Create awareness, reduce stress, and live in the present moment through the practice of mindfulness.
49. Perform Card Tricks
Entertain friends and family with your card magic skills, and enjoy of illusion and mystery.
50. Play a Classic Board Game
Rediscover the joy of playing classic board games like chess, Monopoly, or Scrabble with friends and loved ones.
51. Play a Foreign Language Song
Expand your musical repertoire, embrace different cultures, and learn to play a song in a foreign language.
52. Sew or Knit
Develop practical skills by learning to sew or knit, and create handmade items with love and care. It’s a great skill to learn in the long run.
53. Hike and Navigate Outdoor Trails
Explore the great outdoors, connect with nature, and develop navigational skills for outdoor adventures.
54. Perform Basic Car Maintenance
Become self-sufficient in car maintenance, learn to change oil, replace tires, and perform basic repairs.
55. Brew Your Own Beer
Become a master brewer, experiment with different flavors, and enjoy the rewarding process of brewing your own beer.
56. Dance a Partner Dance
Connect with others through the joy of partner dancing, whether it’s salsa, tango, or swing.
Goal Setting! Do It Now!
Learn How To…(Cont)
57. Perform Basic First Aid
Develop lifesaving skills, be prepared for emergencies, and make a difference in critical situations.
58. Basic Gardening
Create a beautiful garden, grow your own flowers or vegetables, and connect with nature.
59. Perform Basic Plumbing Repairs
Fix common plumbing issues, such as unclogging drains or repairing leaky pipes, and become a handyman.
60. Do Basic Electrical Repairs
Gain confidence in handling electrical repairs, such as replacing outlets or installing light fixtures.
61. Basic Carpentry
Develop woodworking skills, build your own furniture or home projects, and unleash your creativity.
62. Basic Computer Repairs
Become tech-savvy by learning basic computer repair skills, such as troubleshooting software issues or replacing hardware.
63. Baking Techniques
Delight friends and family with homemade baked goods, and learn to bake bread, pastries, or cakes.
64. Cheese Tasting
Discover the world of cheese, learn to taste and pair different varieties, and become a cheese expert!
65. Chocolate Tasting
Check out the world of chocolate, and learn to taste and appreciate different flavors.
66. Coffee Tasting
Immerse yourself in the world of coffee, learn to taste and brew different beans, and become a coffee aficionado.
67. Whiskey Tasting
Discover the world of whiskey, learn to taste and appreciate different styles, and become a whiskey connoisseur.
68. Beer Tasting
Expand your beer knowledge, learn to taste different styles and flavors, and become a beer super dude.
69. Sake Tasting
Explore the world of sake, learn to taste and appreciate different varieties, and become a sake lover.
70. Cigar Tasting
Get smokey in the world of cigars, learn to taste and appreciate different blends, and become a student of cigars of all sorts.
71. Herbal Tea Tasting
Sip yourself silly in the world of herbal tea, and learn to taste and brew different blends.
Learn Powerful Lessons
72. Learn to Sail
Take to the open waters, learn to navigate a sailboat, and experience the freedom of the ocean
73. Attend a Live Comedy Show
Experience the joy of live stand-up comedy, laugh until your stomach hurts, and appreciate the art of humor.
74. Swim with Dolphins
Connect with these intelligent creatures in their natural habitat, and experience the wonder of marine life.
75. Explore a Shipwreck
Dive deep into the ocean and explore a historic shipwreck, uncovering secrets of the past.
76. Climb a Mountain
Reach new heights by climbing a mountain, and enjoy the breathtaking views from the summit.
77. Learn to Play Golf
Master the game of patience and precision, and enjoy the challenge of hitting the perfect shot.
78. Attend a World-Class Art Exhibit
Immerse yourself in the world of fine art, and appreciate the creativity and genius of world-renowned artists.
79. Ride in a Hot Air Balloon
Float above the world in a hot air balloon, and experience the tranquility of drifting through the skies.
80. Walk on a Glacier
Trek across a massive glacier, and marvel at the power and beauty of nature’s frozen landscapes.
81. Learn to Juggle
Challenge your coordination and focus by learning the fun and quirky skill of juggling.
82. Start a Blog
Share your thoughts, experiences, and passions with the world, and connect with a global audience.
83. Attend a Traditional Festival in Another Country
Go check it out for yourself! Fall into a unique cultural celebration, and experience traditions such as Mardi Gras, or the Christmas Market in Germany are all great examples.
84. Take a Polar Plunge
Jump into freezing cold water for a cause or just for fun, and experience mother nature at her chilliest!
85. Go on a Safari
See wild animals up close in their natural habitat, and experience the awe of nature’s most majestic creatures.
86. Write a Book
Put your thoughts, stories, or knowledge into a book, and leave a lasting legacy for future generations.
87. Go Whale Watching
Witness the beauty and grandeur of whales as they breach the surface of the ocean.
88. Visit All Seven Continents
Explore the diverse landscapes, cultures, and experiences that each of the seven continents has to offer.
89. Participate in a Charity Race
Combine fitness with philanthropy by participating in a charity run or race, and support a cause you care about.
Enjoy Every Moment Of Our Existence
90. Live Off the Grid for a Week
Disconnect from modern technology and conveniences, and experience the simplicity and tranquility of off-grid living.
91. Learn to Make Sushi
Master the art of sushi making, and impress your friends with your culinary skills.
92. Attend a TED Talk Live
Be inspired by innovative ideas and thought-provoking talks from some of the world’s brightest minds.
93. Take a Cross-Country Train Ride
Travel by train across a country or continent, and enjoy the scenic views from the comfort of a train car.
94. Participate in an Obstacle Course Race
Challenge yourself physically by competing in a Tough Mudder, Spartan Race, or similar obstacle course event.
95. Learn to Ice Skate
Glide across the ice, improve your balance, and enjoy the fun of skating.
96. Go Ziplining
Soar through the treetops or over mountains and valleys, and experience the thrill of ziplining.
97. Attend a Classical Music Concert
Experience the beauty and power of live classical music, and appreciate the skill of world-class musicians.
98. Go Paragliding
Fly like a bird and take in stunning views as you glide through the air.
99. Take a Wilderness Survival Course
Learn essential survival skills like building a shelter, finding food and water, and starting a fire in the wild.
100. Attend a Film Festival
Watch indie films, attend premieres, and experience the magic of cinema at a world-renowned film festival.
101. Learn to Read Body Language
Improve your communication skills by learning how to read nonverbal cues and body language.
102. Visit one of The Wonders of the World
Stand in awe of one of the world’s natural wonders, like the Grand Canyon, Victoria Falls, Mount Everest or the Great Wall of China!
103. Go Scuba Diving
Explore the depths of the ocean, discover vibrant coral reefs, and swim among exotic marine life.
104. Write a Letter to Your Future Self
Reflect on your current life and goals, and write a letter to your future self to open years down the road.
105. Attend a Masquerade Ball
Don an elegant mask and attend a masquerade ball, experiencing the mystery and glamour of the event.
106. Visit a Ghost Town
Explore a historic ghost town, and imagine the lives of the people who once lived there.
107. Learn to Make Your Own Cheese
Experiment with cheese-making, and enjoy the rewards of your homemade creations.
108. Ride a Motorcycle
Experience the freedom of the open road on a motorcycle, and feel the wind in your hair.
109. Run with the Bulls in Pamplona
Take part in one of the most exhilarating and dangerous traditions in the world: the Running of the Bulls.
110. Take a Helicopter Ride
Get a bird’s-eye view of a city or landscape from the vantage point of a helicopter.
111. Learn a New Dance Style
Expand your dancing skills by learning a new style, whether it’s salsa, ballroom, or hip-hop.
112. Visit an Active Volcano
Stand in awe of nature’s power by visiting an active volcano, and witness the raw energy of the Earth.
113. Go Ice Fishing
Experience the serenity of winter fishing, and enjoy the challenge of catching fish through the ice.
114. Take an Ancestry DNA Test
Discover your roots by taking a DNA test, and learn more about your family history.
115. Build a Piece of Furniture
Get hands-on and create a functional piece of furniture, like a table or chair, from scratch.
Great List Of Thing To Try Now
116. Fly a Plane
Take to the skies and learn the basics of piloting a small aircraft.
117. Watch a Meteor Shower
Lay under the stars and witness the wonder of a meteor shower lighting up the night sky.
118. Hike a Famous Trail
Tackle a famous trail, like the Appalachian Trail or Pacific Crest Trail, and enjoy the beauty of nature.
119. Attend a Fashion Show
Immerse yourself in the world of fashion by attending a runway show and appreciating cutting-edge designs.
120. Go Horseback Riding
Connect with nature and animals by riding a horse through scenic trails.
121. Learn to Fly a Drone
Master the controls of a drone, and capture stunning aerial footage of landscapes and events.
122. Attend a Renaissance Fair
Step back in time and enjoy the medieval atmosphere, costumes, and performances at a Renaissance fair.
123. Go Whitewater Rafting
Feel the rush of adventure as you navigate through rapids on a whitewater rafting trip.
124. Join a Book Club
Share your love of reading by joining a book club, and engage in meaningful discussions about literature.
125. Participate in a Wine Harvest
Help pick grapes during a wine harvest, and experience the joy of being part of the winemaking process.
126. Go Stargazing in a Remote Location
Escape the city lights, and experience the beauty of a clear night sky filled with stars.
127. Learn to Tango in Argentina
Travel to Argentina and learn the passionate and intricate dance of the tango.
128. Go Snowboarding
Hit the slopes and learn the exhilarating sport of snowboarding.
129. Attend a Comic-Con Event
Immerse yourself in the world of pop culture, meet fans and celebrities, and enjoy the excitement of a Comic-Con event.
130. Write a Love Letter
Express your feelings and emotions through a heartfelt love letter to someone special.
131. Attend a Broadway Show
Experience the magic of live theater by attending a Broadway show in New York City.
132. Take a Ride on a Luxury Train
Experience the elegance and comfort of luxury train travel, complete with gourmet dining and stunning views.
133. Create a Vision Board
Set your goals and intentions by creating a visual representation of your dreams and aspirations.
134. Learn to Fence
Channel your inner swordsman by learning the art of fencing, and develop agility and precision.
135. Host a Murder Mystery Dinner
Invite friends for a night of intrigue and suspense by hosting a murder mystery dinner party.
136. Ride a Camel in the Desert
Explore the vastness of the desert by riding a camel and experiencing the nomadic lifestyle.
137. Go on a Deep-Sea Fishing Trip
Head out to the open ocean, cast your line, and try to catch some of the largest fish in the world.
138. Learn to Cook Over an Open Fire
Master the skill of cooking delicious meals over a campfire, and enjoy the simplicity of outdoor cooking.
139. Attend a Ballet Performance
Appreciate the grace, skill, and beauty of live ballet, and be captivated by the storytelling through dance.
140. Swim in a Bioluminescent Bay
Experience the magic of swimming in waters that light up with bioluminescent organisms, creating a glowing effect.
141. Participate in a Beach Clean-Up
Give back to the environment by joining a beach clean-up effort and helping to protect marine ecosystems.
142. Attend a Circus Performance
Be entertained by acrobats, clowns, and animals at a live circus performance.
143. Create a Scrapbook
Keep your memories by creating a scrapbook filled with photos, mementos, and personal stories.
144. Go Kite Surfing
Combine surfing and paragliding by learning the exhilarating water sport of kite surfing.
145. Visit a Butterfly Sanctuary
Walk among hundreds of colorful butterflies, and learn about their life cycle and habitat.
146. Participate in a Flash Mob
Join a group of strangers for a spontaneous and coordinated public performance, surprising onlookers.
147. Ride in a Tuk-Tuk in Thailand
Explore the streets of Thailand in a tuk-tuk, a fun and unique way to get around.
148. Go Birdwatching
Grab your binoculars and take to nature, identifying different bird species in their natural habitat.
149. Learn to Make Homemade Pasta
Get hands-on in the kitchen and learn to make fresh pasta from scratch, creating awesome Italian dishes.
150. Go Night Diving
Experience the underwater world at night, and discover the unique marine life that comes out after dark.
151. Plant a Tree
Leave a positive mark on the environment by planting a tree, and watch it grow for years to come.
152. Try Stand-Up Paddleboarding
Balance on a paddleboard and glide across calm waters, enjoying a peaceful and fun water activity.
153. Participate in a Triathlon
Challenge your endurance and fitness by competing in a triathlon, combining swimming, cycling, and running.
You’re In a Good Place!
Male Lifespans Around The World
Let’s now check out how long we guys are sticking around on this planet—and it turns out, that where you live plays a big part in your lifespan.
Spoiler alert: the numbers across the world are all over the place. So, here’s a look at how men are doing in some of the top OECD countries in terms of life expectancy.
Japan: 81.3 Years
First up is Japan, the gold medalist for the physical lifespan of men. The average Japanese guy can expect to live to about 81.3 years old. You know what’s helping them rack up those years?
Diet. Loads of fresh fish, vegetables, and a crazy good health care system. Plus, there’s something about a calm, peaceful lifestyle that seems to keep the stress levels down.
Switzerland: 81.2 Years
The Swiss—known for their chocolate, watches, and, apparently, their longevity. The adult man in Switzerland lives an average of 81.2 years. Maybe it’s all that mountain air from the Alps, or the fact that they’re big on clean living.
Or maybe it’s the reliable healthcare and a social system that takes a lot of pressure off people as they age.
Norway: 80.9 Years
Norway is right up there with an impressive average of 80.9 years for men. It’s probably because Norwegians are out hiking in all kinds of weather, staying active, and eating well.
They’ve got some top-tier healthcare, and let’s be honest, they’re living in a pretty chill place—less hustle, less stress.
Australia: 80.5 Years
Now let’s head down under. Aussie men are living to about 80.5 years. With a laid-back beach lifestyle, solid healthcare, and a love for sports and outdoor activities, they’re in great shape for the long haul.
Plus, you can’t forget about that Aussie sunshine—it’s probably giving them some sort of superpower!
Canada: 80.3 Years
Oh, Canada! Men here live to around 80.3 years. Maybe it’s all the politeness that keeps the stress down, or it’s that fresh northern air. Plus, the universal healthcare doesn’t hurt.
Canadian guys tend to live well and have access to good medical care when they need it or in emergency situations. Hockey keeps the heart pumping, too, right?
Iceland: 80.3 Years
Icelandic men are also clocking in at 80.3 years. Living on an island with jaw-dropping landscapes must do wonders for the soul. They’ve got one of the best healthcare systems, and these guys stay active in that beautiful, rugged terrain.
Fresh air, fresh fish, and some geothermal magic? I’m not complaining.
South Korea: 80.0 Years
South Korean men are living an average of 80 years, which is impressive given how quickly the country developed. The secret sauce here? Healthy food like kimchi, rice, and loads of veggies, along with a solid healthcare system.
Korean men might be working long hours, but they’re balancing it out with some impressive health habits.
Sweden: 80.2 Years
Swedish men are making it to around 80.2 years. The Swedes live that ‘lagom’ lifestyle, which is all about balance. Their welfare system takes care of people, and they’re big on outdoor activities. Maybe all that Nordic skiing is adding extra years.
Italy: 80.0 Years
Ah, Italy! Home of pasta, pizza, and longevity. Italian men live to around 80 years. Despite all the carb-heavy meals, the Mediterranean diet—think olive oil, fresh veggies, and fish—has got their back.
Plus, family life is huge here, and that social bond seems to do wonders for overall happiness and well-being.
USA: 76.1 Years
Now, here we are in the United States, where the life expectancy for men sits at around 76.1 years. While that’s lower than most other countries on this list, there’s a lot of variation based on lifestyle, location, and access to healthcare.
Getting medical attention can be a bit tricky, but the good news is things are improving, and there’s a growing focus on fitness and mental health. There’s hope for the future!
Common Regrets of Men
Here are some common regrets that men often reflect on later in life
Career Choices
Many men regret not pursuing their passions or choosing careers that truly fulfill them. They often feel stuck in jobs that don’t align with their interests or values.
Financial Security
Failing to save for the future is a significant regret. Many men realize too late the importance of financial planning and saving for retirement, leading to anxiety about their financial stability later in life
Family Relationships
A common regret is not spending enough quality time with family, especially children. Many men prioritize work over personal relationships, which can lead to feelings of missed opportunities..
Health and Wellness
In the flurry of day-to-day activities, neglecting physical health was a common regret. Many men wish they had taken better care of their bodies and managed stress more effectively throughout their lives.
Romantic Relationships
Regrets can also arise from romantic relationships, whether it’s failing to express feelings or not pursuing meaningful connections
Education
Some men express regret about not furthering their education or developing new skills, especially when they feel trapped in their careers
Travel and Adventure
A lack of travel and exploration during youth is a regret for many. They often wish they had taken more opportunities to experience new cultures and adventures.
Living in the Moment
Many men regret not appreciating the present moment or not living life to the fullest, often getting caught up in worries about the future.
Stepping Out of Comfort Zones
Regrets about staying within familiar boundaries and not taking risks are common. Men often realize too late that they missed out on valuable experiences by not stepping outside their comfort zones.
Not Seeking Help
Finally, some men regret not seeking help when they needed it, whether for mental health issues or personal struggles. They may feel that asking for help is a sign of weakness, which can lead to long-term consequences.
Last Thoughts
The most important thing is to enjoy every moment of the short speck of our existence here. This list of potential fun life experiences spans various genres, from personal growth to adventure and cuisine exploration. Each one offers a unique opportunity for self-discovery, growth, and enrichment.
So, pick a few that resonate with you and get on your journey to a fulfilling and extraordinary life. Make your own list of upcoming goals and get to it! Remember, your whole life is meant to be lived to the fullest, and these experiences will help you do just that.