Music has been an integral part of my life as long as I can remember and one of the things I gravitate towards most to ground me in the present. Music can really set the mood to whatever suits the moment in really profound ways.
Music is Everywhere
Think about the last movie you watched. What genre was it? Now think about the soundtrack to that movie. If it was an action movie, the soundtrack will feature intense and harsh rhythms that help to tell the story and make you feel like you are in the moment. A comedy may feature upbeat popular music to fit the storyline.
I think about music in my own life in a similar way. What am I trying to achieve in the moment and how can music set the stage for that. For example, if I’m writing, I tend to play non vocal music to keep me focused. I can create that Zen mood I’m looking for. Maybe soft piano to envision an idyllic scene of a writer working on a novel in a cafe. If I’m running, I’ll pick something with a beat that follows the pace that I want to run that day.
Reinforcing the Mood
Lots of us will play music that doubles down on our mood. Metallica fits nicely when we are pissed off. Is there anything more sad than Sarah McLachlan crooning over the commercial of pets that can’t find a home?
The great artists will set the scenes for you. Growing up in New York, for me, Billy Joel’s “New York State of Mind” conjures up memories of riding the Metro North Train from Poughkeepsie into the city. The song brings back those sights and sounds of the big city. You can see in the video he is setting the scene for his audience before he even starts.
You Have the Power to Change the Soundtrack
While doubling down on a mood can be powerful, I find the real hidden gem with music is how I can use it to change my mood. Spending time in Hawai’i introduced me to a unique genre of island music that was all its own. It’s hard to explain but contains elements of Bob Marley and reggae mixed with the mellow chill of Jack Johnson weaved in with island covers of pop hits from days gone by.
If I’m in a bad mood, putting on this music will change my mood within the first three songs. It’s impossible not to be infected by the positivity and thirst for life that comes with the island culture. If you haven’t experienced this kind of music I’d recommend checking out Keahiwai or Anuhea.
The challenge for you this week is simple. If you are a music lover, observe your listening habits and how they fit together with the mood you are currently in. Then actively try to create a different vibe by trying to change up the music while you are going about your daily routine. If you can learn how to set the scene for yourself, you can more easily live the story you want to tell about your own life.
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