Create your personal I-want list

Have you ever wondered what has become of all the things you intended to do? Often, days and weeks go by without us actively engaging with our wishes and goals. It’s time to change this state and think about what you really want. Creating a “I-want-list” is an effective first step to realizing your dreams and achieving your goals.

Key Insights

The first step to success is the conscious decision to actively work on your happiness and your goals. Use the “I-want-list” to clearly define what you really want. Categorize your wishes into “to do,” “to have,” and “to be” and always keep honesty in mind. Such a list is dynamic and should be revised regularly.

Step-by-Step Guide to Creating Your I-Want List

1. Stop Wishful Thinking

Before you start the list, take a moment: Make a conscious decision to not only wish but to take action. You are solely responsible for your success and happiness. Activate your commitment and start working on your life.

2. Answer the Question: What do you want?

The first concrete step is to answer the question “What do you want?” For this, use the provided “I-want-list,” which you can download via the link below this video. A simple way is to print the list or, even simpler, take a piece of paper and a pen and write your answers directly on it.

3. Define Clear Categories

Before you write down your wishes, categorize them into three groups: What do you want to do? What do you want to have? And what do you want to be? This structure helps you keep track of your desires and can aid you in distinguishing between what is truly important and external influences.

4. Visualize and Internalize Wishes

After you have written down your answers, hang your “I-want-list” in a place where you will see it every day. Through this constant visibility, you will internalize what you strive for. You will literally have your wishes in front of you and will be reminded daily of what you really want.

5. Honesty is Crucial

It is of utmost importance that you are honest with yourself when answering your questions. Let your wishes flow as freely and unrestricted as possible. Whether you dream of the house by the sea or a simple weekend in the mountains, everything counts. Think of your childhood dreams and do not limit your imagination.

6. Distinguish Between Internal and External Influence

Recognize that many wishes may stem from external influences. Your life experiences, societal expectations, and everything you see in the media shape your ideas of success. Reflect on whether you are truly pursuing a goal for yourself or if it’s just an image imposed on you.

7. Regularly Re-evaluate Wishes

Your “I-want-list” is not static. Keep it dynamic and review it regularly. Add new items or remove those that no longer seem important to you. Continuous reflection on your wishes and life visions is necessary.

8. Be Critical and Open to Change

Be critical of your wishes. If you wake up every morning and come up with new goals, don’t be afraid, even if it means significant changes. You can still keep wishes like the dream car on your list while developing new dreams. Be open to changes and let your creativity flow.

Summary - Creating Your Personal I-Want List

Creating your personal “I-want-list” is a crucial step in figuring out what you truly want in life. Treat your wishes with honesty, visualize them, and update your list regularly to ensure that you stay true to your true self.