What's on Your Career Bucket List?

Lately, I’ve been thinking about bucket lists.

We all have dreams simmering on the back burner — aspirations that we haven’t acted on but can’t quite let go of. The funny thing is, once you say your goal out loud — to a friend, a colleague, a mentor — it becomes more real. More actionable. Suddenly, that far-off idea starts to take shape as something you could actually do. And here’s the best part: when you share your goal, people can help. They might introduce you to the right person, teach you a new skill, or just encourage you to keep going.

Bobby Shank, Managing Director of Actuarial Services at Third Horizon, shared this:

“One of the items on my professional bucket list is to chair a committee for one of the actuarial associations. Leading a committee is a great way to make an impact beyond day-to-day work — especially as we continue to adapt to innovations and the growing influence of AI.”

Another actuary shared a story that proves the power of planting the seed.

“Years ago, I was at a professional meeting, and someone turned to me during a speech and said, ‘That’s going to be you someday.’ I laughed it off. But later, when I joined the CCA Board of Directors, that memory came back — and I realized I did want to lead. Eventually, I served as President of the Conference of Consulting Actuaries. That role even helped me check off another dream — traveling to Australia to represent the CCA at the International Actuarial Association meeting.”

Now?

“Well, I’m adding a new item to the list: writing a book. I never thought I’d say that. But I had an idea while listening to an audiobook, and now that I’ve told all of you… I guess I’m on the hook to follow through!”

What’s on your career bucket list?

Don’t keep it tucked away. Say it out loud. Write it down. Share it with someone. You never know who’s listening — and how they might help you get one step closer.