In 2018, a handwritten list believed to belong to rapper NBA YoungBoy (real name Kentrell DeSean Gaulden) surfaced online, revealing his dreams and personal goals at the early stage of his career. The list, simply titled “Bucket List,” contained aspirations that seemed modest yet deeply meaningful: “Leave Louisiana for good,” “Give back to my community,” and “Get my GED.” Through these three wishes, we can see the portrait of a young artist yearning for freedom, self-improvement, and the chance to give back to the place that raised him.

First, the line “Leave Louisiana for good” reflects his desire to escape the environment where he grew up—an environment marked by hardship, poverty, and violence. Louisiana, especially Baton Rouge, was both the birthplace of YoungBoy’s talent and the setting of many of his struggles. Leaving that place was not about denying his roots; it was about seeking a new beginning, freeing himself from the constraints of his past. For many artists who come from tough neighborhoods, “leaving” is synonymous with survival—protecting themselves from the traps and dangers that have destroyed so many young lives. For YoungBoy, it was an act of self-preservation, a way to safeguard his dream and his career.

The second goal—“Give back to my community”—reveals a more compassionate side of him. Although he is often known for his raw, aggressive rap style, behind that hardened exterior lies a heart that understands the power of giving. YoungBoy grew up in poverty, often without parental support, and the community around him—though harsh—played a role in shaping his determination to rise above it all. Once he achieved success, he did not forget his desire to return and help those who came after him, especially the children in the neighborhoods he once called home. This dream of “giving back” shows his awareness that fame is not just for personal gain, but also a tool to bring positive change to others.

The phrase “Get my GED” may seem simple, but it carries profound meaning. It reflects his aspiration to learn, to grow, and to prove that success is not only measured in wealth or fame. Even though YoungBoy gained recognition at a young age, he still valued education and understood its importance. Earning his GED was a symbol of self-discipline and maturity—a declaration that he wanted more than just a career in music; he wanted personal growth. In an industry where many young artists abandon school in pursuit of stardom, including education on his bucket list demonstrated wisdom and foresight beyond his years.

Looking at these three goals together, they represent a journey toward freedom, knowledge, and compassion—the three core values of becoming a complete human being. Leaving Louisiana was his first step toward escaping external limitations; earning his GED was about overcoming intellectual barriers; and giving back to his community was about transcending the boundaries of ego. From a boy who endured a difficult childhood, YoungBoy has gradually evolved into a symbol of resilience—a person who continues to strive to rise above the darkness of his past.

Today, when we look back at his journey, it’s clear that many of the goals from that list have been achieved in one way or another. He has reached levels of success few could imagine: releasing multiple albums, earning platinum certifications, and building a massive global fanbase. Yet, the greatest accomplishment lies not in his fame, but in his personal growth—the transformation he envisioned years ago when he scribbled those dreams on a piece of paper.

That small, handwritten list is more than just a personal plan—it’s a message to the younger generation: no matter where you come from, you have the right to dream, to learn, and to give back. Every great journey begins with a small dream, written down with belief and determination.