Sometimes when going about our lives, day to day, we develop a perspective of ourselves, others, and the environment. This view can be positive or it can be difficult. Much like a lens on a camera or a loop pedal on a guitar, we get to choose which sounds and images we would like to see. So often we can get stuck on the one lens/filter and begin to believe that this is what life is all about. I question you, is it? Here are some tips on changing your perspective for the better.
Take inventory of what you think and what is around you. What is the most common thought that comes to mind throughout the day? What messages are you hearing in the music you listen to? What type of impact does it have on your wellbeing?
Example: Let’s say the thought that comes to mind is “I am not good enough” or “It is going to be a rough day.”
Ask yourself are these thoughts actually true? Do they really reflect who I am or what I want to get out of the day? If the answer is no, then you can work to change that thought.
Example: “I am good enough” or “It is going to be a fantastic day.”
Sounds simple enough. Can it be this easy? Well, the act of changing words around is, but actually believing them is a total another story. This is where the music comes in.
Our brains are a massive database of our lives. It has neurocircuitry predating your birth! In order to change the old patterns and “wiring”, it takes repitition and security. This is how music can be beneficial because it is a pleasurable way to do this work and it is repetitive. Take either a song you already know or a song that comes to mind that is simple. Take your affirmation “I am good enough” or “It is going to be a fantastic day” or whatever affirmation you created and use these as the lyrics instead of the original lyrics. Sing it or think it as often as you’d like.
Observe if a shift happens in your thought process. Maybe you start to notice other things in your surroundings you didn’t before. Maybe you begin to think differently about yourself. The thing is, it’s a journey for a reason. Take your time. Be patient with yourself.
This is a process that can be done in a matter of minutes or longer. It really depends on what type of thinking or perspectives you are shifting. Sometimes you may need to seek out professional therapeutic support. This activity is not to be replaced by that, it is simply here as a tool to help you in your journey.
In Music Therapy we would use the process of composing a song or rewriting another familiar song to create a list or playlist of affirmations you can draw on outside of sessions. It can be a fun, creative, alternative process that gives you a fresh perspective and outlook.
Another example:
Old Thought: “I can’t do that!”
Affiramtion: “I can do that”
Song: Whatta Man - En Vogue
Here the song has a repetivite lyric saying “Whattta Man”. Instead I would say “I can do, I can do, I can do, I can do, I can do Thaaaat”.
The reason why I chose this song is because it’s catchy, familiar and repetitive. These characteristics of the song make it easier for your brain to remember the affiramtion. The repetivieness also serves to update your brain and override the old thought pattern. It is also fun to dance to and the movement aspect can also shift your mood.
There are many examples and many affirmations. I suggest keep it simple and enjoy.