I’m sure I’m not alone in this, but music helps keep my brain on track. If it’s quiet, my mind runs rampant and I end up with nothing getting done. I’ve always used music as my mental lubricant. I know, I know. Some people will cringe at the thought of this, but hey can’t deny myself of being me. Nor can you, right?
For me, I think hearing music allows me to breathe in someone else’s creativity and it amps up my own. Or maybe since my mind is always moving, it somehow keeps it in relatively one place. Don’t get me wrong, it can be distracting sometimes, but I think those small distractions are like hitting the reset button or, at minimum, pause. We can all use that from time to time.
In grade school and college, I used music when I studied. I tend to retain more information, or produce more writing, when music is involved. I know that music doesn’t work for everyone, like I said earlier, but just know, setting the mood for whatever it is you are doing — reading, writing or otherwise — it’s important to find your balance. To find your zen. So you can be productive.
For me: whether it be working out, mellowing out, showering, writing or reading, I turn on music, grab a snack, something to drink, maybe both, and I get down to work. Yeah, I’m one of those weirdos who has eaten in the shower, at one time or another.
Back to the point at hand, music becomes background noise to me after a while. I might sing a song while I’m doing whatever I’m doing. I might even let it distract me for a minute, but without it I get nothing accomplished. It’s amazing how the mind can do multiple activities at once, sometimes subconsciously.
So, what’s your zen? For some it might be burning a candle. Cradling their pet in their lap. Complete and utter silence. A stiff drink. The dark of night or the rising of the sun. Whatever it is, set your mood and get it in.
Just an important point; music is not involved when I’m editing. It’s the only time I actually require complete quiet.
But…
Music is in my veins. It’s pure unadulterated facts. When I bleed, a jukebox starts playing.
What’s your go-to? How do you set your mood? Find it and own it.