The Soundtrack of Your Year

As the year winds down and the familiar Spotify Wrapped notification arrives, I find myself reflecting not just on the songs that played on repeat, but on how each one mirrored the moments that defined my journey. Music, for me, is never just sound—it’s a companion, a reflection of my experiences, and a guide through the emotional landscape of life. In this story, I’ll take you through the soundtrack of my year, each song representing a chapter of my growth, resilience, and joy.

Chapter 1: The Spark of New Beginnings – "On Top of the World" by Imagine Dragons

The year started with a rush of energy and optimism. I had set new goals, both personal and professional, and was determined to make the most of every opportunity that came my way. “On Top of the World” became my anthem during those early mornings when I was brimming with ambition and excitement. The upbeat melody mirrored my sense of possibility and made every challenge feel like a stepping stone rather than a barrier. This was the soundtrack to my fresh start—a time when anything felt possible.

Chapter 2: Navigating Challenges – "The Climb" by Miley Cyrus

As the year unfolded, the inevitable challenges came with it. There were moments of self-doubt, setbacks in my professional journey, and a realization that success wasn’t always linear. During these times, “The Climb” played on repeat, serving as a reminder that growth wasn’t about reaching the top quickly but about finding strength in the journey. The lyrics, "It's not about how fast I get there, it's not about what's waiting on the other side," echoed in my mind whenever I felt overwhelmed. It helped me pause, recalibrate, and keep pushing forward, no matter how steep the climb seemed.

Chapter 3: Quiet Reflection – "Weightless" by Marconi Union

Mid-year brought moments of quiet reflection—long walks alone, evenings spent in introspection, and time to really think about the direction I was heading. "Weightless" by Marconi Union, a calming ambient track, became my soundtrack during these introspective moments. The soft, soothing melody helped me detach from the noise and stress of the world, allowing me to process my thoughts and emotions. It was during these moments of stillness that I found clarity, reevaluated my goals, and gained a deeper sense of peace.

Chapter 4: The Joy of Connection – "Happy" by Pharrell Williams

As the summer months arrived, so did a newfound sense of joy and connection. I spent more time with family and friends, made new connections, and allowed myself to experience the pure joy of being present with others. "Happy" by Pharrell Williams became my personal anthem for these moments. The infectious rhythm mirrored the laughter, the carefree days, and the lightness of living in the moment. Whether it was dancing at a wedding, sharing a meal with friends, or laughing over a silly inside joke, this song accompanied those golden moments of happiness, reminding me to embrace the joy in the small things.

Chapter 5: Growth and Transformation – "Good as Hell" by Lizzo

The final stretch of the year was marked by transformation. It was a time when I truly embraced my worth and confidence, both personally and professionally. "Good as Hell" by Lizzo became my go-to empowerment anthem during this phase. Whenever I faced moments of uncertainty or had to step into a new role, this song reminded me to stand tall and own my journey. The powerful lyrics—"I do my hair toss, check my nails"—encouraged me to take pride in myself and my accomplishments. It was the soundtrack of self-assurance and celebration, a reminder that I am good enough, no matter what.

Chapter 6: Gratitude and Reflection – "Home" by Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros

As the year came to a close, I found myself reflecting on the people and experiences that had shaped me. "Home" by Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros became a song that encapsulated this sense of gratitude and belonging. It reminded me of the importance of connection—both with others and with myself. As I looked back on the highs and lows, I realized that, no matter where life took me, I always had a sense of home within the relationships and experiences that grounded me. The song echoed the warmth of family, friendships, and the comforting knowledge that, no matter how far I may go, I’m never truly alone.