With seasonal depression already kicking in for some of us, I know it’s easy to put on your favorite sad album and take your misery to the max. Music can be one of the best forms of expression, and in times when emotions may be high, it’s easy to reach for an artist who puts that sadness into words. What if I told you there was a better way?
A few years ago, I realized how much the music you listen to in the morning shapes your whole day. You had a bad night’s sleep, it’s cold outside, and you wake up in a bad mood; one of the best ways to combat this is by listening to albums or genres that make you feel good.
1. The Summer Playlist
This is always a safe option for me, year-round, not just the summertime. As soon as I start hearing artists like Jungle, Bob Marley, The Beach Boys, SZA, or especially the Lilo and Stitch or Rio soundtrack, my mood is instantly uplifted. Although it might not be summertime, my head is taken back to mid-July, carefree and happy. Choosing to listen to a playlist polar opposite to the season you might be in is a great way to shift your mindset.
2. Old Love songs
This one may be a take, but it has NEVER failed me. My personal playlist is full of artists like Etta James, Stevie Wonder, Frank Sinatra, Elvis, Al Jarreau, Marvin Gaye, The Temptations, and Elton Jon. Something about timeless love songs helps romanticize each day and, for me, makes me feel even more feminine at times. Listening to the ways women and men used to write and sing about their loved ones, past lovers, or even about themselves, fills my heart.
3. 2000s pop throwbacks
How much do I really need to say? I don’t know what was going on 20 years ago, but everyone made life seem extra sweet. Rihanna, Britney Spears, prime Justin Timberlake, Black Eyed Peas, Ciara- all of their music hits the spot just right. I like to start my day listening to this while I get ready to give an instant confidence boost and overall improve my energy. If you work out in the mornings, this playlist is the perfect choice.
4. Jazz
Some people think jazz is either too slow, boring, or a mood killer, but I think you just need to find the right playlist. Jazz, similar to old love songs, helps to romanticize life, calm any high emotions, and reset the system. It’s hard to be grumpy when you have classic jazz playing while you get ready in the morning.
5. Soundtracks
Unless you hate musicals or movie soundtracks, this one should be self-explanatory. Everyone has their personal favorites, but I love to listen to The Sound of Music, Wuthering Heights (sad exception), Twilight, Teen Beach Movie, Hairspray, Annie 2014, Moana, Chicago, Bridgerton, High School Musical, Call Me By Your Name, Gnomeo and Juliet, and many more. I love to listen to my favorite songs from some of my favorite movies or musicals. They are easy to sing along to and an easy distraction from whatever is upsetting you.
Although it may seem like you are in a slump where you just don’t want to be in a good mood, I highly recommend finding easy ways to find things to uplift you. The choices you make in the morning can control your whole day, from your energy and mood to interactions with others. Next time you go to click on that sad playlist, maybe try one of these alternatives instead.