Two Kinds of Playlists

There are two types of playlists that should, and do, exist in every creative professional’s world.

The first is the literal playlist. The type of playlist you build on Spotify, Apple Music, or back in the day, with a blank cassette tape you bought from the department store.

The second kind of playlist is invisible. That’s right, this is the one only you know about because it exists in your head. No, I’m ot talking about getting a song stuck in your head, I’m talking about what Jon Acuff calls your soundtracks, or, the things you tell yourself so regularly that you believe them to be true about yourself and the world around you.

Both types of playlists can greatly affect your work

The Power of Musical Playlists: Setting the Soundtrack for Your Creative Work

We all know that different types of music can influence creativity and productivity. Just a few weeks ago I wrote a blog and released on podcast epiosde about the affect music has on your brain, so I won’t re-hash it here. But you understand that upbeat music for brainstorming sessions, instrumental music for focused work can be extremely helpful.

I suggest you create your own (literal) playlists as a creative exercise and way to motivate yourself when you play them back. No matter what platform you use, this form of digital collage making can be a great way to express your creativity in a non-traditional way.

Currently, I’m working on playlist for each part of my 4D Creative Process. Keep in mind different genres or tempos to match the desired energy level. Music can help set the pace, mood, and atmosphere in a workspace.

The Playlist in Your Head: Crafting the Right Mental Playlist

Whether we are extroverted or introverted, all of us talk a lot. Mostly, we talk to ourselves. Ok, maybe not out loud (although some of you may make that a habit too), but in the quietness of our minds, we tell ourselves all sorts of things constantly throughout the day.

This concept I learned from a book that I read with my teenage son earlier this year by Jon Acuff called, “Your New Playlist”. It was incredible, and I cannot recommend it enough for you to read with your teens.

In his book, we learned the things you tell yourself repeatedly become part of your mindset, or, your playlist. That being said, it’s easy to come to the conclusion that curating positive, constructive thoughts can help you stay in a healthy mindset the more you play the right songs on your mental playlist.

Example: Replace negative self-talk with affirmations that boost confidence and motivation.

What are some of your limiting belief playlists that you keep on repeat? The impact of mental playlists can have long-term success and resilience in the creative field if you add the right songs.

You can, and ought to, take control of both your musical and mental playlists.

So, what’s on your playlist today?