For all my music lovers out there, this one’s for you.
Music can be a really good motivator. Lots of studies show that listening to upbeat music rather than “sad” music all the time can have a legitimate impact on your mental health. So, let’s put the science to work. If you’re like me and you love a good tune and are in need of a new routine, keep reading to learn how you can structure your day with music.
Wake up
Getting out of bed in the morning can have you fighting for your life. Starting is always the hardest part of any task, so make getting started fun by playing something that’ll boost your mood and set the tone for you to have a good day.
To put a smile on your face the second you’re up, listen to Just a Cloud Away from the Despicable Me soundtrack (trust me on this one).
Bonus: Getting ready
My number one life hack to get you feeling confident and prepared to take on your day? Listen to some bumping music that brings out your inner baddie. We all have one in us, regardless of who you are.
My go-to track that instantly brings that baddie out is Feeling Myself by Nicki Minaj featuring Beyonce.
Heading to campus
Now that you’ve gotten the ball rolling, keep your energy up by hyping yourself up with music on your commute. Whether you drive or bus, a fire listening sesh as you travel can always be the best motivator to pump you up and get you in the mood to get your grind on.
This is your time to play those hard-hitting, fast-paced, and exciting songs that make you feel like you can do anything you put your mind to.
My favorite song that gets me in the right headspace and ready to lock in is Mr. Morale by Kendrick Lamar.
Locking in to study
Okay, you’ve made it to campus on time, and now it’s time to sit down and lock in. I find that the best music for studying is anything that isn’t overly distracting. Ambient music, lo-fi beats, or even video game soundtracks work well if you often get lost in your regular music (like me).
A really good instrumental album/track I love to listen to as I study is Sunday by HNNY.
Bonus: Between classes
Between classes, keep your mood up with some hope-core music – anything in your library that’s whimsical and makes you feel like everything is gonna be okay is a good choice.
One of my favourites right now for spring is Pilot by Ravyn Lenae.
After class
You’re going to feel pretty exhausted after class, but if you still have to do things at home (like make dinner, finish homework, nighttime routines), you gotta find a way to keep that energy up.
This is your time to celebrate and pat yourself on the back. You did it, you had a successful, productive day on campus! Throw yourself a party with your music and play those glory tracks that get you feeling like the legend that you are.
A song I love that gets me feeling this way is Trophies by Drake.
Bedtime
It’s time to wind down after a long day of working hard and accomplishing a lot. Listen to anything melodic and calming for some rest. Queue those songs that feel like a comforting hug at the end of a long day.
The perfect song for this is Rises the Moon by Liana Flores.
Let me know if this method ends up working for you. Make your own playlist and see where the music takes you!
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Nimrat Dhaliwal is a fourth-year English major originally from Calgary, Alberta. She is passionate about writing and creating art and is deeply invested in activism and social justice. You can almost always find Nimrat jamming out to music and ranting about her favourite albums. Or you can find her at the thrift store, finding new pieces for her many incredible outfits. Her favourite thing to do in Kelowna is explore new places (and find the best places to eat) with her friends 🙂
