Music makes the mood. But can it make the move?
For me, even the first few notes of a familiar song can change my mood and my entire outlook. Feeling like I haven't accomplished anything all day and have zero motivation to do anything about it? I listen to the Dixie Chicks and I can conquer the world. Feeling fat and ugly? Put on a little Jackson Five and I'm back in middle school, when I was as cute as a button.
Music really is a game changer.
But what about when you're going through something really dreadful? Like moving? Can music take away the angst from broken heirloom china? The heartbreak of leaving old friends? The despair of staging and cleaning your house so much you don't feel like you really live there anymore? Yes, even that.
I've got some playlist suggestions for you, if you're moving and are looking to improve your mood. Put together a moving playlist and when your move starts to get under your skin, hit Play and let the tunes take you away.
The House Song by Peter, Paul and Mary
I like to listen to this when I'm moving because it's a real estate song. It reminds me I'm not alone in my quest for surviving a move and that my move isn't as bad as it could be. A house that goes up for sale every Wednesday morning and is taken off the market in the afternoon? Sounds exhausting. I hope they have a cleaning lady.
Carry On by Fun.
Listen to this song you can imagine yourself getting out of bed, marching right up to the attic with a roll of strapping tape on your wrist, a fat Sharpie in one hand and a box cutter in the other and packing up all your good junk.
Under Pressure by David Bowie and Freddie Mercury
I don't know anyone got anything done before this song came into our lives. I once cleaned my whole house with "Under Pressure" on repeat play. Afterward I wrote two blog posts and baked two apple pies. 'Cause it's just that kind of song.
My Silver Lining by First Aid Kit
Lyrics that make you feel like an idiot if you don't change things in your life, and no-nonsense vocals. First Aid Kit can come over to my new house anytime.
Follow the Sun by Xavier Rudd
Okay, you're in your house now. You're desperately trying to not see the boxes that need to be unpacked, the shelf paper that has to be put in the cabinets, and the change of address cards that have to be filled out and sent. This song will make those things disappear and make you want to make a cup of tea and sit in your new picture window and watch the neighborhood kids play street hockey. Or something.
Walk by Foo Fighters
Official video notwithstanding, this song is the ultimate inspiration springboard for me.
I'm Alive by Willie Nelson
Feeling sorry for yourself? Overwhelmed with mortgage paperwork? Your leather sofa won't fit up the stairs? Willie never fails to put it all into perspective in the sweetest way. This from a guy who lives most of the year in a bus.
Blue Ridge Mountains by The Fleet Foxes
Location, location, location is what this song is all about. It's a reminder that there is beauty all around you, no matter where you've landed.
Float On by Modest Mouse
Sometimes life's okay. And we'll all float on okay.
~ ~ ~
If you like Diane's moving help here on It's Your Move! you'll love her funny book of moving stories, Home Sweet Homes: How Bundt Cakes, Bubble Wrap, and My Accent Helped Me Survive Nine Moves. On Amazon.com and on her website, DianeLaneyFitzpatrick.com.
