125 Lifetime Goals Examples and How To Achieve Them

Having lifetime goals is an essential part of living a meaningful life. Our goals motivate us, shape our view of the world, and give us direction. They help us stay focused on our dreams and ambitions so that we can live with purpose.

Whether you’re still in your teens or an experienced adult, lifetime goals can be anything you want them to be.

This post is about lifetime goals examples that you can set and work towards achieving in your lifetime. Don’t give too much weight to any one specific goal or specific methods. There are lots of different ways to reach your goals.

Remember, not all of these have to be on your goals list – it is about YOUR lifetime and what YOU want to achieve! Be picky with your goals and focus on ones that really matter to you.

This post is about lifetime goals examples and how to reach them.

Here are 125 lifetime goals examples:

1. Visit the 7 Wonders of the World

This is a fun goal to work towards and will take some work to achieve. The 7 Wonders of the World are the Taj Mahal in India, The Great Pyramid of Giza in Egypt, the Hanging Gardens of Babylon in Iraq, the Colossus of Rhodes in Greece, the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus in Turkey, the Statue of Zeus at Olympia in Greece and the Lighthouse of Alexandria in Egypt.

2. Buy a house

Wanting to own your own home is a worthy goal! This might be an important life goal for some whereas someone else would rather buy their dream car. Do what works for you!

3. Have children

Children are a lifetime investment that will enrich your life and theirs as well. Passing on your legacy through your family is how the world keeps turning.

4. Learn a new language

Learning a new language can open you up to new cultures, business opportunities, and friendships.

5. Swim with dolphins

Anyone who has ever swam with dolphins will tell you how magical of an experience it was! Push yourself outside of your comfort zone to enjoy a swim with the dolphins in the open ocean.

6. Start your own business

As an entrepreneur, you have the power to create something of your own. You will learn so much about yourself and your abilities as you build your business.

7. Earn a college degree

A college degree is a lifetime accomplishment that will open up many doors. It might take some hard work, but it’s worth it in the end.

8. Go on a cruise

Cruises are a great way to get away and explore different places. There’s nothing quite like the feeling of being on the open waters!

9. Take an art class

Art classes can help you explore your creativity and give you a new outlet for expressing yourself.

10. Go sky diving

Sky diving is a lifetime adventure that will give you an adrenaline rush!

11. Build your own home

Building your own home is a lifetime achievement that will give you a sense of pride and accomplishment.

12. Visit every continent in the world

This lifetime goal will take dedication and planning, but it’s worth the effort. Explore different cultures and go on an adventure of a lifetime!

13. Plant a tree for each of your children or grandchildren

Planting a tree for your family is a lifetime goal that will benefit future generations. It’s a great way to give back to the world too.

14. Learn to play a musical instrument

You can pick up an instrument at any age. My best friend started piano lessons in her 20s!

15. Take a cooking class

Learning to cook a variety of dishes will open up your palate and help you become more confident in the kitchen.

16. Write a book

Writing a book can be a lifetime achievement that you can look back on with pride. It’s an amazing accomplishment to have your words published!

17. Run a marathon

Running a marathon is an accomplishment that will take a lot of dedication and hard work, but the feeling of pride at the end is worth it. You could even go for a half marathon – that’s what I did!

18. Learn to surf

Any lifetime surfer will tell you that the feeling of riding a wave is unbeatable. It takes time to learn, but a lot of people enjoy it and the freedom that comes with it.

19. Create a piece of art you’re proud of

Creating art is an amazing lifetime achievement to be proud of. Whether it’s painting, sculpting, or any other form of art, use it as a way to express yourself and create something unique.

20. Climb a mountain

Climbing a mountain is a lifetime goal that requires skill and determination. It will give you incredible views and an amazing sense of accomplishment at the top.

21. Travel to an exotic location alone or with friends

Travelling to a new place can be an incredibly rewarding lifetime experience. If you do it alone, it will give you a chance to really explore and discover something new. If you do it with friends, the memories will last a lifetime!

22. Learn to paint

Painting is a lifetime skill that can help you express yourself in a creative way. It’s a calming activity and the results can be truly amazing. It’s also something you can do on a regular basis that will improve your personal life.

23. Take a photography class

Photography classes can teach you the basics of taking great pictures. You’ll learn about composition and framing, which will help you take photos that stand out.

24. Volunteer for a cause you care about

Volunteering is a lifetime goal that can give you a sense of purpose and make the world a better place.

25. Go scuba diving

Exploring the depths of the ocean is an amazing lifetime experience. It can be intimidating at first, but it’s definitely worth it!

26. Take a pottery or ceramics class

Pottery and ceramics classes can help you explore a new creative outlet. It’s something that you can use to make beautiful pieces of art that you can be proud of.

27. Participate in a triathlon

Triathlons are lifetime goals that will push you to your limits. It takes time and dedication, but it’s an amazing feeling when you cross the finish line.

28. Visit all fifty states in the United States

If you love traveling, this lifetime goal is perfect for you. Explore the history and culture of each state while ticking them off your list!

29. Take a road trip with your best friends

Road trips are an incredible lifetime experience. Pack up the car, get some snacks, and explore a new destination with your closest friends.

30. Start a charity or nonprofit organization

Starting a charity or nonprofit organization is a lifetime goal that can make a big difference in the world.

31. Learn to snowboard

Snowboarding is an exhilarating lifetime experience. With practice, you can learn to shred the slopes like a pro!

32. Go on an African safari

This has always been on my bucket list and I hope to do it one day!

33. Become fluent in sign language

Another thing that I have always wanted to do and didn’t start making strides with until my second son was born with unilateral hearing loss.

34. Visit the Great Wall of China

This is something I’ve always wanted to do and it would be an amazing lifetime achievement.

35. Create a budget and stick to it

Creating and sticking to a budget is an incredibly important lifetime goal. It will help you stay on top of your finances and reach your goals.

36. Write a screenplay or play

This lifetime goal can help you develop your creativity and storytelling skills. It’s a great way to explore the world of literature!

37. Go whale watching

Whale watching is an amazing lifetime experience. It’s a great way to see these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.

38. Take a hot air balloon ride

Hot air balloon rides are lifetime experiences that you’ll never forget. It’s a great way to see the world from a different perspective!

39. Start a blog and post regularly

Blogging is a lifetime goal that can help you share your ideas and thoughts with the world. It’s an incredible way to connect with people and share your ideas and experiences.

40. Learn to knit or crochet

Knitting and crocheting are lifetime goals that can help you create beautiful pieces of artwork. Plus, it’s a great way to relax.

41. Build your own website from scratch

Building your own website from scratch is a lifetime goal that will help you learn about coding and web design.

42. Become an expert in something you are passionate about

Becoming an expert in something that you are passionate about is a lifetime goal that can help you stay motivated and focused on achieving your goals.

43. Plant a vegetable garden

Planting a vegetable garden is an amazing lifetime experience. It’s a great way to get your hands dirty and learn more about gardening.

44. Compete in a local race

Completing a local race is an incredible lifetime experience. It’s a great way to challenge yourself and push your limits.

45. Go snowshoeing

Snowshoeing is a lifetime goal that can take you off the beaten path and into nature. It’s an incredible way to explore and get away from it all.

46. Visit the Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon is a lifetime experience that you’ll never forget. It’s an incredible way to explore one of the natural wonders of the world. I went with my best friend a couple of years ago and it was magical.

47. Take a road trip cross-country

Cross-country road trips are lifetime experiences that you’ll never forget. It’s a great way to explore the United States, meet new people, and have fun.

48. Make a movie with your friends or family

Making a movie with your friends or family is an incredible lifetime experience. It’s a great way to explore the world of filmmaking and create something together.

49. Read 100 books in one year

This is a lofty goal and doesn’t have to be your goal every year but it’s a great thing to aim for at least once!

50. Start a collection of something you love

This lifetime goal can help you find treasures and build a collection of something that has deep meaning for you.

51. Take a sailing class and become proficient in sailing

Sailing is an incredible lifetime experience. Taking a sailing class and becoming proficient in sailing can help you explore the world of the sea and become an expert sailor.

52. Participate in an archaeology dig

Participating in an archaeology dig is a lifetime experience that you won’t soon forget. It’s a great way to explore ancient civilizations and learn about history.

53. Attend the Olympics

Attending the Olympics is an amazing lifetime goal. It’s a great way to experience world-class athletes and be part of the thrilling atmosphere.

54. Learn to juggle

Learning to juggle is an incredible lifetime goal. It’s a great way to challenge yourself and develop your coordination skills.

55. Build a treehouse for your kids

Building a treehouse for your kids is an incredible lifetime goal. It’s a great way to create something special that can be enjoyed by the whole family.

56. Visit all seven continents in the world

Visiting all seven continents in the world is an incredible lifetime goal. It’s a great way to explore different cultures, see amazing sights and have unforgettable experiences.

57. Make a scrapbook of your life

I loved scrapbooking as a child and hope to re-pick up the hobby as an adult!

58. Become an expert in coding

or programming

Becoming an expert in coding or programming is a lifetime goal that can help you stay ahead of the curve.

59. Learn to play chess

Learning to play chess is an incredible lifetime goal. It’s a great way to challenge yourself and learn strategy skills that can help you in other ways.

60. Visit the Great Pyramids of Egypt

Visiting the Great Pyramids of Egypt is a lifetime experience that will stay with you forever. It’s an incredible way to explore ancient history.

61. Learn five new recipes each year

This lifetime goal is fun and can help you develop a culinary skill set. It’s also a great way to explore different flavors!

62. Take a self-defense class

Taking a self-defense class is a lifetime goal that can help you stay safe and protect yourself. It’s an empowering experience that will help you feel confident.

63. Attend a music festival abroad

And go with friends!

64. Reconnect with an old friend

Reaching out to an old friend is a lifetime goal that can help you reconnect with someone from your past.

65. Take a woodworking class

This lifetime goal is a great way to explore the world of woodworking and create something special with your own two hands.

66. Learn to play an instrument

Learning to play an instrument is a lifetime goal that can help you find joy and express yourself in new ways.

67. Write your memoirs or family history

Writing your memoirs or family history is a lifetime goal that can help you document and share an important part of your life story. This is a great long-term goal that your future family will appreciate too.

68. See the Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights)

Seeing the Aurora Borealis is a lifetime experience that will stay with you forever.

69. Climb the Eiffel Tower in Paris

Climbing the Eiffel Tower in Paris is an incredible lifetime goal. It’s a great way to take in the sights of one of the world’s most beautiful cities.

70. Become a master gardener

Becoming a master gardener is an amazing lifetime goal. It’s a great way to learn the art of gardening and connect with nature. It’s always a great thing for personal growth to learn a new skill and you’ll appreciate growing your own food too.

71. Take a ceramics class and make something special for your home

Taking a ceramics class and creating something special is a lifetime goal that can help you express your creativity.

72. Learn to drive a stick shift car

Learning to drive a stick shift car is an incredible lifetime goal. It’s a great way to learn an important skill that can help you in everyday life.

73. Attend the opening of an art gallery or museum exhibit

Attending the opening of an art gallery or museum exhibit is an incredible lifetime goal. It’s a great way to explore the works of famous artists and immerse yourself in culture.

74. Become certified in CPR/First Aid

Becoming certified in CPR and First Aid is a lifetime goal that can help you stay prepared for any unexpected situations.

75. Complete a marathon, triathlon, or other long-distance event

Completing a marathon, triathlon or other long-distance event is an incredible lifetime goal. It’s a great way to challenge yourself and push your physical and mental capabilities.

76. Participate in an amateur theater group

Participating in an amateur theater group is a lifetime goal that can help you explore the world of acting and hone your performance skills.

77. Learn to salsa dance

Learning to salsa dance is a lifetime goal that can help you stay active, learn new music, and have fun!

78. Take a yoga teacher training course

Taking a yoga teacher training course is an amazing lifetime goal. It’s a great way to learn more about the practice of yoga and teach others.

79. Go bungee jumping

Going bungee jumping is a lifetime goal that allows you to experience an adrenaline rush and test your courage.

80. Climb a famous landmark like the Empire State Building or Sears Tower

Climbing a famous landmark like the Empire State Building or Sears Tower is an incredible lifetime goal.

81. Visit every major league baseball stadium

Visiting every major league baseball stadium in the United States is a lifetime goal that can help you explore some of America’s top stadiums.

82. Become a teacher for an underprivileged community

Becoming a teacher for an underprivileged community is a lifetime goal that can help you make a lasting difference in the lives of those in areas.

83. Build a boat and sail it around the world

Building a boat and sailing it around the world is an incredible lifetime goal. It’s a great way to explore new places, learn about different cultures, and challenge yourself.

84. Learn to make your own beer or wine

Learning to make your own beer or wine is an amazing lifetime goal. It’s a great way to experiment with different flavors and express yourself in a creative way.

85. Take a class on how to repair automobiles or other mechanical items

Taking a class on how to repair automobiles or other mechanical items is a lifetime goal that can help you develop handyman skills and stay knowledgeable about how to maintain various types of machinery.

86. Participate in a food competition

Participating in a food competition is a lifetime goal that can help you hone your cooking skills and have fun with fellow foodies.

87. Participate in a dance competition

Participating in a dance competition is an incredible lifetime goal. It’s a great way to express your creativity and gain recognition for your moves!

88. Visit all the major theme parks in the world

Visiting all the major theme parks in the world is a lifetime goal that can help you explore some of the most iconic amusement parks and have a blast at the same time.

89. Participate in a local Polar Bear Club and take an icy plunge each year

Participating in a local Polar Bear Club and taking an icy plunge each year is a lifetime goal that can help you challenge yourself and have fun.

90. Become a certified lifeguard

Becoming a certified lifeguard is an incredible lifetime goal. It’s a great way to stay prepared for any unexpected situations and protect others in need.

91. Take a class on photography or videography and make some creations of your own

Taking a class on photography or videography and making some creations of your own is an amazing lifetime goal. It’s a great way to express your creative side and capture your memories forever.

92. Learn to speak a new language

Learning to speak a new language is an incredible lifetime goal. It’s a great way to open yourself up to different cultures and make connections with

93. Complete an Ironman or other endurance event

Completing an Ironman or other endurance event is a lifetime goal that can help you test your physical and mental toughness.

94. Become a beekeeper and start your own apiary

Becoming a beekeeper and starting your own apiary is an incredible lifetime goal. It’s a great way to learn more about the fascinating world of bees and experience the rewards of caring for them.

95. Take a tour of famous landmarks in Europe

Taking a tour of famous landmarks in Europe is a lifetime goal that can help you explore some of the most iconic places in the world and make lifelong memories.

96. Volunteer at an animal shelter or wildlife rehabilitation center

Volunteering at an animal shelter or wildlife rehabilitation center is a lifetime goal that can help you make a difference in the lives of animals and create stronger connections with the environment.

97. Become a foster parent

Becoming a foster parent is an amazing lifetime goal. It’s a great way to open your home to those in need and make a lasting impact on their lives.

98. Try stand-up paddle boarding

Trying stand-up paddle boarding is a lifetime goal that can help you explore new places, have fun, and challenge your balance skills.

99. Become a certified pilot and take to the skies

Becoming a certified pilot and taking to the skies is an incredible lifetime goal. It’s a great way to fly high and experience the thrill of being in the sky!

brunette sitting in a chair holding a notebook

100. Make lifetime memories with your family or friends!

Making lifetime memories with your family or friends is an amazing lifetime goal. It’s a great way to strengthen bonds, have fun, and create memories.

101. Experience a hot air balloon ride

Experiencing a hot air balloon ride is an incredible lifetime goal. It’s a great way to take in the views from above and marvel at this beautiful world we live in.

102. Take a cooking class and learn a new dish

Taking a cooking class and learning a new dish is an amazing lifetime goal. It’s a great way to expand your culinary skills, explore different flavors, and impress your family and friends!

103. Follow an acting or singing career

Following an acting or singing career is a lifetime goal that can help you pursue your dreams and showcase your talents to the world.

104. Compete in a barbecue competition

Competing in a barbecue competition is an incredible lifetime goal. It’s a great way to hone your skills, have fun, and show off

105. Take a fly-fishing course and become proficient in it

Taking a fly-fishing course and becoming proficient in it is an amazing lifetime goal. It’s a great way to learn a new hobby.

106. Visit the Galapagos Islands

Visiting the Galapagos Islands is an incredible lifetime goal. It’s a great way to experience unique wildlife and explore some of the most remarkable and most isolated places on the planet.

107. Learn to scuba dive and explore the depths of the ocean

Learning to scuba dive and exploring the depths of the ocean is an incredible lifetime goal. It’s a great way to experience the beauty of the underwater world and discover the wonders of the deep.

108. Conquer a fear you have

Conquering a fear you have is an amazing lifetime goal. It’s a great way to overcome your fears and take control of your emotions.

109. Go mountain biking in a remote area

Going mountain biking in a remote area is an incredible lifetime goal. It’s a great way to challenge your physical and mental toughness, explore new places and have an unforgettable adventure!

110. Attend a major sporting event like the World Cup or Super Bowl

Attending a major sporting event like the World Cup or Super Bowl is an amazing lifetime goal. It’s a great way to experience the thrill of the crowd and get a glimpse of the world’s biggest sporting events.

111. Visit all 50 states in the US

Visiting all 50 states in the US is an incredible lifetime goal. It’s a great way to explore this amazing country, discover new cultures, and see all the sights that make America unique.

112. Take a guided meditation course and master the art of relaxation

Taking a guided meditation course and mastering the art of relaxation is an amazing lifetime goal. It’s a great way to clear your mind, foster a sense of calm, and cultivate inner peace.

113. Learn to juggle fire

Learning to juggle fire is an incredible lifetime goal. It’s a great way to challenge your coordination, develop reflexes, and amaze your friends with your new skills!

114. Participate in a charity walk or race

Participating in a charity walk or race is an amazing lifetime goal. It’s a great way to give back, stay healthy, and support a cause close to your heart. This is one of those life goals ideas you’ll feel good about! Plus it’s good for your mental health too.

115. Go skydiving and feel the rush of free-falling through the air

Going skydiving and feeling the rush of free-falling through the air is an incredible lifetime goal. It’s a great way to challenge yourself and have a truly once in lifetime experience!

116. Take an improv comedy class and learn how to make people laugh

Taking an improv comedy class and learning how to make people laugh is an amazing lifetime goal. It’s a great way to practice your skills, have fun, and bring joy to others.

117. Become a master at origami

Becoming a master at origami and creating amazing paper sculptures is an incredible lifetime goal.

118. Take a road trip with your friends and go off the beaten path

Taking a road trip with your friends and going off the beaten path is an amazing lifetime goal. It’s a great way to explore new places and create unforgettable memories with your friends.

119. Learn to do parkour and challenge yourself physically

Learning to do parkour and challenge yourself physically is an incredible lifetime goal. It’s a great way to push your limits, get in shape, and become an agile athlete.

120. Visit Machu Picchu in Peru

Visiting Machu Picchu in Peru and exploring the ancient ruins is an amazing lifetime goal. It’s a great way to learn about history, see beautiful scenery, and have an adventure.

121. Compete in a sandcastle building competition

Competing in a sandcastle building competition is an incredible lifetime goal. It’s a great way to tap into your creative side and show off your sandcastle building skills.

122. Study abroad for a semester and experience a new culture

Studying abroad for a semester and experiencing a new culture is an amazing lifetime goal. It’s a great way to expand your horizons, make new friends, and grow as a person.

123. Take a horticulture course and learn how to grow plants

Taking a horticulture course and learning how to grow plants is an incredible lifetime goal. It’s a great way to connect with nature, learn about horticulture, and get your green thumb! I’ve always wanted to do this and it is fun to try new things!

124. Participate in an organized river rafting trip

Participating in an organized river rafting trip is an amazing lifetime goal. It’s a great way to experience the beauty of nature, bond with friends, and have a wild adventure! Rope in your family members and have an amazing time.

125. Learn to forage for edibles in the wild and become self-sufficient outdoors.

Learning to forage for edibles in the wild and becoming self-sufficient outdoors is an incredible lifetime goal.

What are your lifetime goals? It’s a big question, but it’s one worth thinking about. Your lifetime goals are the things you want to accomplish during your life. They can be anything from small goals, like learning to play the piano, to bigger goals, like becoming a doctor or starting your own business.

No matter what your goals are, though, achieving them is not always easy. That’s why we’ve put together this list of 125 lifetime goal examples and How To Achieve Them. Whether you’re looking for career goals, personal goals, or anything in between, we hope you’ll find some inspiration here!

How To Achieve Your Lifetime Goals

This post was about lifetime goals examples. Now we will get into how to set and reach them.

Decide what you want to do with your life

Deciding what to do with your life can seem like a daunting task, but leveraging some goal setting techniques such as establishing lifetime goals and creating SMART ones can be really helpful.

Start out by exploring various areas of your life to get an understanding of what is most important to you.

Brainstorming potential lifetime goals, such as contributing meaningfully to society or achieving financial security, can give you clarity and perspective along the journey of discovering what you want your life to look like.

SMART goals are also incredibly useful – setting goals that are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and timely will help break larger goals into manageable steps so they are more likely to be achieved.

You can also consider spiritual goals, financial goals, family goals, etc. and set your desired metrics for each of them. Don’t spend too much time over thinking it. The best thing about goals is that they can be changed over time. And there is nothing wrong with changing your mind!

Ultimately, decide on a career path that resonates with you and allows you express yourself fully in your daily pursuits!

Set Realistic Goals That You Can Achieve

Ready to take control of your future? Setting realistic goals is the foundation for success!

It can be tempting to aim big and think bigger, but reality check yourself by making sure your goals are achievable.

Break it down into smaller stages by setting SMART goals – Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant/Realistic and Time-bound.

For example, rather than simply declaring you want to become an astronaut someday, set a few short-term life-time goals that will help get you there such as ‘finish college’ or ‘apply for an apprenticeship’.

Be sure to select goals that actually mean something to you and will keep you motivated!

Make a Plan of Action To Achieve Your Goals

Establishing what you want to do in life and knowing when you would like to have accomplished it can help create a structure within which you can make progress.

Make sure you set yourself up for success by writing down all of the steps you need to take in order to get there and celebrate your successes along the way!

You’ll need to understand the steps you need to take to reach your goals. And account for how long each step will take. Goals are not meant to be accomplished in a day.

In fact, it might take you most of your lifetime to reach these. Plus, you might work on them more some years over others. It’s important to keep the timeline in mind when you are working towards your goals.

Now dust off those dreams, pick some inspiring music, and let’s get planning with these new ideas!

In Summary: 125 Lifetime Goals Examples and How You Can Achieve Them

No matter what goals you choose, it’s important to remember that your lifetime goals should be meaningful and attainable. To set goals, whether big goals or small goals, is one of the best ways to improve your personal development.

Setting small goals along the way will help you stay motivated and on track! With some dedication and hard work, you can achieve anything if you set your mind to it.

Don’t compare yourself to what you see on social media either. Many goals (whether long-term goals or short-term goals) take a long time to reach. The only way to know if you can do it is to set your mind to it and make a plan. Your specific goals are yours – no one else’s.

I hope you found some inspiration in this list of goals. And remember, not all great goals have to be for you. Remember the ultimate goal is that you enjoy your life and feel good about it. Your own list and action plan is not for anyone else to experience or judge.

These lifetime goals examples should fuel your own creativity and help you to come up with some unique goals that are achievable and make life more exciting.

With the right planning and commitment, each of these lifetime goals can be attained. So get out there, find something you enjoy doing, and set yourself a goal! It’s never too late to set or achieve your goals. Good luck!