Find Your Spark: My ‘Fuck Yeah’ Version of the Excitement Map

I recently watched a video by Tiago Forte about what he calls “The Excitement Map”.

He suggests using it to figure out what goals to go after, because focusing on what excites you naturally boosts life satisfaction.

I like it because it reminds me how much of life can be exciting when I’m feeling pretty “blah”.

How To Make One

He used a “mind map” layout for his, with “life” at the center and branches extending from there.

I just made lists. And I’m calling it my “Fuck Yeah List”, because these are things you should always say “fuck yeah!” to. 😆

Basically, you just make a list (or branches) of things that energize & fascinate you. Don’t get too specific to start, just general categories or subjects of interest – whatever “lights you up”. He suggests browsing through your digital life for ideas (such as videos & articles you’ve saved, observations throughout the day, etc). A good question to ask yourself to help add to the list is “What did you enjoy doing as a kid? No judgment, no guilt tripping yourself with what you think should be on there – just the things that genuinely spark something in your soul. Tiago even goes so far as to say that these should be things you feel you have a physical, visceral passion for.

From there, you’d get more specific – ask yourself & write down what about each topic makes it important or meaningful or exciting for you.

Now you have something to work with however you see useful. ❤️

My “Fuck Yeah List”

I expected myself to struggle with making my own list because I’ve been feeling pretty “blah” lately (distracted, overwhelmed, worried — you know, all the fun mental clutter.)

But once I got going on it, it really came together nicely! So here’s what I came up with :

• Writing
  • Sharing things that excite / interest me
  • Feeling proud of something I’ve written
• Nature
  • Seeing things I don’t see very often (certain birds, butterflies, ruins)
  • Fresh air, refreshing breeze
  • Flowing water
• Adventures
  • Experiencing different places & things
  • Shopping
  • Hiking
  • Events
• Music
  • Concerts
  • Dancing
• Witchcraft
  • Nature
  • Meditation
  • Protection
• Learning
  • Psychology
  • Stoicism
  • Buddhism
  • Health
  • Neurology
• Exercise
  • Getting stronger, leaner, faster
  • Dancing, coordination
• Cooking
  • Putting together healthy, delicious dinners for my loved ones
• Notion
  • Creating engaging, functional workspaces for different purposes
• Driving
  • Cruising around at night, no one else on the road, listening to music with the windows wide open
  • Going 70+ on the highway, legally

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If you’ve been feeling flat lately, this is a game-changer. Make your own Excitement Map and see what lights you up. Share this post if you think someone else needs the reminder.

Rock on!