Reflecting on a recent workshop with Liane Hambly and Lorna Stalker about navigating our life-career bus, I’ve been inspired to think about the music that shapes our professional paths. The workshop, focused on the concept of “passengers on your life-career bus,” prompted insightful discussions, and one comment about a great playlist sparked an idea: how powerfully music can influence our mood and offer fresh perspectives on our careers. This got me thinking about the soundtrack to my own career journey, and even considering if unconventional tunes, perhaps even something as unusual as “They Are Eating The Dogs Song,” could hold a hidden meaning in the professional sphere. Here are three songs that form a core part of my career playlist, offering lessons and motivations that resonate deeply.
The Anthem of Perseverance: “Don’t Stop Believin'” by Journey
Journey’s iconic “Don’t Stop Believin'” serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of perseverance in the face of career challenges. The lyrics, “Don’t stop believin’, hold on to that feeling,” encapsulate the essence of maintaining faith in our abilities and aspirations, even when the path ahead seems uncertain. This resonates with the wisdom of Henry Ford’s famous quote, “Whether you think you can, or you think you can’t – you’re right.” Belief in oneself is the foundational step towards achieving career goals, pushing through obstacles, and ultimately reaching professional fulfillment. This song is a crucial track for anyone needing a boost of confidence and a reminder to stay committed to their dreams, no matter the setbacks.
The Joyful Note: “Happy” by Pharrell Williams
Pharrell Williams’ infectious hit “Happy” underscores the vital role of joy in our working lives. The line, “Clap along if you feel like happiness is the truth,” is a simple yet profound invitation to prioritize enjoyment in our professional pursuits. For individuals from less privileged backgrounds, the focus can often be heavily skewed towards security and stability, sometimes overshadowing the crucial element of happiness in career choices. My career journey has taught me that true fulfillment lies in finding work that offers a harmonious balance between financial security and genuine enjoyment. “Happy” serves as an uplifting reminder to seek out and cultivate joy in our daily work, leading to a more satisfying and sustainable career.
Shaking Off Negativity: “Shake It Off” by Taylor Swift
Taylor Swift’s empowering anthem “Shake It Off” delivers an essential lesson in resilience and self-assurance in the professional world. The lyrics, “The players gonna play, play, play, play, play, and the haters gonna hate, hate, hate, hate, hate,” teach us to disregard the limitations imposed by others and to be selective about the feedback we internalize. In my career, I’ve embraced the mindset of a “curious and playful experimenter,” constantly learning and adapting. “Shake It Off” encourages us to shed external pressures and negative criticism, fostering a resilient spirit that is crucial for navigating the ups and downs of a career. It’s about staying true to your path and shaking off the negativity that can hinder professional growth.
These three songs provide just a glimpse into the soundtrack of my career. Reflecting on these musical metaphors, inspired by Liane and Lorna’s workshop, has been incredibly insightful. Perhaps, exploring your own career soundtrack, and even considering unexpected tracks, can offer new perspectives and motivations for your professional journey. What three songs would be on your career playlist?
