Here's Your Ultimate 2015 Bucket List

It's the start of a new year, which means it’s time for people to start coming up with long lists of New Year’s resolutions they swear they’ll finally stick to this year. Don’t get me wrong — resolutions are great and all, and can even be kind of fun, depending on what you want to do, but there are also those resolutions that everyone seems to make and no one seems to follow — eat healthier, sleep more, drink less… you catch my drift. This year, I say mix it up a bit. Instead of writing a list of things you want to "resolve," why not make a bucket list of things to accomplish and memories to build in 2015?

The new year is a great time to celebrate the victories of the past 12 months and plan for the next 12. With so many things to look forward to in 2015, there's no reason this year shouldn't be the best one yet. But what really makes a year one to remember are all the memories you create throughout.

Don't let your daily routine steal the next 365 days. Mix it up by making time to do the things you've been putting off. You know, the things that usually come after the phrase, "Someday I want to..."

You don't need to hit the jackpot or take a month vacation to accomplish these bucket list items (although those two things are always helpful). You just need to have a mindset that says, "This year is going to be the best yet, because I am going to conquer the things I've set out to do." Here are 20 bucket list items that everyone needs to check off in 2015. You'll be happy you did!

CHALLENGE YOURSELF

1. Conquer your Biggest Fear

Challenge your fears. Scared of heights? Try bungee jumping or zip lining. Or maybe start out small. Afraid of the dark? Slowly dim the lights in your home until you can enter a room without the urge to hit the lights. Studies prove that facing your fears head on will show you there's really nothing to be afraid of.

2. Learn to Cook your Favorite Meal

At any age, it's probably time you learn to cook your favorite meal. It'll save you a few bucks, and you can add it to your list of recipes. If you already know how to make the dish you love, then get started on your favorite dessert.

3. Learn a New Hobby

Learn to play a new instrument. Take an artistic class in painting or ceramics. Learn a new sport like surfing or snowboarding. Whatever fits your fancy. There's always more to learn and new horizons to explore.

4. Run a Marathon

If you love to run, chances are you've probably already been thinking about running a marathon, so why not make this the year? Or start with a half marathon and work your way to a full. If you're not a runner, enter in a 5K mud run, color run, or an electric run. It'll be the most fun you ever have exercising.

5. Write a Book

Everyone has a story to tell, so share yours. Even if it's just for you to read, you'll find the experience rewarding. It's a great way to recount the victories and learn from the mistakes. Don't focus on writing a best seller, just focus on sharing what you know.

CONNECT WITH OTHERS

6. Road Trip with Friends

Everyone should have a good road trip story. If you've never driven across state lines with at least two friends, it's time to add it to the list of "best memories ever." Even a two hour drive is worth the trip. Just don't forget to bring good friends, good music, and a GPS system of course.

7. Visit Someone You Haven't Seen in a While

You know that relative you keep saying you're going to visit? Or that friend you keep promising to see? Stop putting off your "someday" and make the trip. Better sooner than later, because later is so uncertain, so plan ahead and make it happen.

8. Spend a Whole Day Doing Things for Other People

It's better to give than to receive. Spend an entire day doing things for other people. Share a kind word, open the door for someone else, or buy a cup of coffee for the person behind you. It might just be the best day you have all year.

9. Serve the Less Fortunate

There are tons of ways to serve your community. You don't need to wait until Thanksgiving to serve in a soup kitchen or a homeless shelter. Find out how you can help at a local children's hospital or animal shelter.

10. Donate Blood

There's always a blood drive going on somewhere nearby, so find out where your local blood drive is, and give the gift of life. Just be sure to prepare with a hearty meal beforehand and lots of water after. Scared of needles? This might be a way to check off two bucket list items in one (see #1).

11. Throw a Super Bowl Party

We might not all be able to attend the Super Bowl, but we can definitely partake in the camaraderie, the competition, and the commercials. Even if you're not a football fan, any party with hot wings, Doritos, and built-in entertainment is a plus!

12. Attend a Talk Show

Most talk shows and game shows offer free tickets for audience members. You can camp out for tickets to SNL, submit a request for tickets to the Ellen DeGeneres Show, or get standby tickets to The Today Show. There's nothing better than seeing your favorite show up close and personal.

TAKE A BREAK

13. Watch the Sunset

Maybe it's been a while since you've really taken time to watch the sun set. Take a break after a long day, and let it soak in. It'll be the best five minutes you spend all day.

14. Dance in the Rain

Sometimes, it's good to just sit inside with a cup of tea and listen to the drops on the windowpane. Other times you need to get out and dance, basking in the water that flourishes our Earth.

15. Go to a Spa

There's nothing more relaxing than a day at the spa. Even if you just go in for an hour massage, it'll make all the difference in helping to relieve stress, which is something everyone needs.

16. Unplug for 24 Hours

I know what you're thinking — this is the most insane bucket list item thus far! But it's really not as crazy as it sounds, and it might even be necessary. You'll be surprised by the things you'll find to do when you're not staring at a screen.

TAKE A WALK ON THE WILD SIDE

17. Visit New York City

OK, I'm not just saying this because I live in New York City and can vouch that it's the greatest city of all, but upon my research of most common bucket list items, I found that most people already have The Big Apple on their list. So why not add the #1 place people dream of visiting (and for good reason) to yours as well? The possibilities here are endless. But to know that, you have to get here first.

18. Ride in a Hot Air Balloon

Another hot commodity on the average bucket list. Personally, this is on my list and has yet to be checked off. I've been hang-gliding, parasailing, and skydiving twice, but I have yet to float in a giant balloon in the sky. So I've decided this is the year, and I think everyone should experience being in a tiny basket hundreds of feet in the air.

19. Go to a Concert

Everyone loves music, and what better way to experience it than live with one of your favorite artists? Look up local concerts in your area, and make it a point to attend one that interests you. You'll be happy you did.

20. Attend a Festival

Everyone needs to experience at least one major festival in their life, so why not make 2015 the year to go? There are tons of phenomenal festivals all around the world to choose from, and you'll want to experience them all, like China's Ice and Snow Festival, Mexico's Dia De Los Muertos, Taiwan's Lantern Festival, Germany's Oktoberfest, and my personal favorite, Coachella Fest in my hometown of Southern California.

Happy New Year! Time to set out and do great things!

Images: Fotolia; Dave Benkut, Enrico Strocchi, OakleyOriginals, Alex Alvisi, David/Flickr