4 Songs That Keep Me Inspired

By Kailey Walters on March 17, 2017

Almost everyone has a special playlist of songs they listen to whenever they’re in the mood to hear some of their favorites. People listen to music for any variety of reasons: to cheer up, to wallow in their own sadness, to motivate themselves, to relax, etc.

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I have never considered myself particularly music savvy; nine times out of 10, I’ll recognize the lyrics, the melody, and/or the singer’s voice, but won’t know the name of the song or the artist. Yet, somehow, over the years I have managed to cobble together a list of my favorite songs, which I turn to whenever I need a little pick-me-up. Each song has a special meaning to me, rooted in a particular memory that reminds me of the good times, the difficult times, and everything else in between.

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Here are four songs, in no particular order, that never fail to bring me hope, inspire me to do my best, or simply send some much-needed, feel-good vibes tingling through my body.

“Fight Song” by Rachel Platten

This is such an empowering song that tells me, every time I listen to it, that there is value in believing in myself. Whenever I feel mentally or emotionally weak, or fall into the trap of believing I’m not good enough in some way, this song convinces me of my inner strength. It reminds me that my opinions need to be heard and that I have a right to fight with my voice.

“Breakaway” by Kelly Clarkson

This has been one of, if not my absolute, favorite songs ever since I was a kid. I have always found something so appealing about breaking away from all social constraints — other people’s judgments, societal expectations, etc. — and striking out on my own to be my own person. Over the years I have done so in varying degrees, whether by speaking my mind in a difficult situation or not allowing a potentially hurtful comment to affect me. Every time I need a reminder of my independence, I think to myself, “I’ll spread my wings and I’ll learn how to fly; I’ll do what it takes til’ I touch the sky.”

“Cat’s in the Cradle” by Harry Chapin

From the first time I heard this song at the tender age of 13, I thought the story it told was simultaneously beautiful and heartbreaking. I especially love a song that tells a good story, and this particular one comes with a valuable lesson: always make time for family, because you’ll never realize how much time has slipped through your fingers until it’s too late. When I listen to this song, I remember the importance of spending time with my parents, which makes visits back home over breaks and the occasional weekend that much more special.

“Unwritten” by Natasha Bedingfield

Pardon the cliches, but I love the idea that I’m writing my own story in the book of my life as I go along. Even if I mess up one day, I can turn to a fresh, blank page the next day and do everything I can to create a better ending. Ultimately, knowing that adventure lies in my future makes me so excited about what I am doing now and what I will one day do.

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