8 Creative Ways Women Are Using Music To Inspire Confidence

Need to channel some success for a work presentation? Hello, hype playlist! Trying to tap a bit of encouragement at the end of a long day? Cue your favorite pop rock ballad. Music is the soundtrack to success, the fuel to our metaphorical fires. It’s also personal: My current favorite pop artist has nearly five million monthly listeners, but when I need a little afternoon motivation and start blasting her latest single, it’s like she’s singing straight into my ear, willing me through that 4 p.m. slump.

Even more so, music can be a source of motivation toward an ambitious goal or serve as an instant confidence booster at times when you need a little push, which is why Bustle teamed up with Total Wireless to look at how music helps women nationwide find their source of total confidence.

Here, eight women spill on the ways music drives their lives, from nostalgic workouts to mother-daughter bonding. Check out their responses below, then take the time to discover how music inspires you — and while you’re at it, check out the latest devices and great rate plans at TotalWireless.com.

It Connects Me To My Roots

“Music certainly has helped me during my first few months as a new mom. I started playing my newborn [songs by artists that] evoked my own childhood growing up in a Latin household. But their jazzy rhythms, lilting melodies, and profound lyrics really helped me power through so many anxious, sleep-deprived moments, and it was wonderful seeing the enthusiasm and wonder in my little girl's face as we danced along to them. It made me feel proud of the way I was raising her — surrounded by Spanish, music, beauty, and love — and made those first weeks and months getting to know each other that much more special.” —Raquel

It Helps Me Get Rid Of Negative Emotions

“It sounds cheesy but I have a playlist I use when I need to wallow — the lyrics reminds me that I’m not the only one to feel so low. After a few songs I’m ready to get back out there and do whatever it is I need to do to get back on my feet.” —Maddie

It Motivates Me Before My Work Day...

“I begin my hour-and-a-half commute at 5:15 a.m. every day, and music helps me power through it. Music wakes me up, keeps me company as I sit in rush hour traffic, and gets me ready to face the day!” —C.D.

...And Helps Me Wind Down, Too.

“I'm a teacher and work with young kids, so as soon as I put headphones on as I'm walking out of the school, I switch back into 'adult' mode. It helps me find myself again after a long, crazy day.” —Annie

It Gives Me Confidence To Reach My Goals

“I’m training for my first half marathon and the long runs can really be a drag. But I’ve been putting songs on my running playlist that make me feel some kind of big emotion — sometimes even just nostalgia. Those songs get me excited to run, even more than just straight-up fast songs, and make this whole goal a lot more doable.” —Lauren

It Encourages Me To Put My Best Work Forward

“Most people listen to calm, soft music when they work. I’m a doctoral student and when I have a 10-page paper due, I put on the most hardcore rap I can find and I get it done.” —Alice

It Gives Me An Instant Mood Lift

“Music can change my mood more than just about anything else. It can help me be productive, lift my energy, or just comfort me when I’m down. I pick what I listen to based on how I'm feeling — and how I want to feel.” —Laura

It Lets Me Feel Like Myself

“The older I get, the more I find myself gravitating towards female musicians. There's a depth of emotion and understanding of the human condition that is unique to women, I think, and it makes me feel more seen.” —Hannah

This post is sponsored by Total Wireless.