Everyone’s hit a wall before. Whether it’s at work, in a relationship, or at the gym, we’ve all come to a point where our brain says, “That’s it. I’m done. No mas, por favor.” And then you say, “Brain, how do you know Spanish?” And your brain replies, “I practice while you’re sleeping.” Weird.

Anyway, the point is sometimes our minds rebel against us. Sometimes they lie and tell us an obstacle cannot be overcome. It can. So here’s a list of songs that help me feel like Genghis Khan, minus the rape, pillaging, and mass murder. Enjoy!

**

Handlebars by Flobots

"Movers, shakers and producers, me and my friends understand the future, I see the strings that control the system, I can do anything with no resistance.”

These songs are in no particular order, except for this one. This one earned the number one spot. I cannot fully explain it, but this song fills me with the confidence and determination to charge through a brick wall.

Battles by Hudson Taylor

"I will lift her love and I'll break your spirit. I will dig a hole and I'll throw you in it.”

Ever been in love? Ever been in love with someone who was in love with someone else? Ever thought that someone was no good for them? Well, that’s what this song is about. Furthermore, it’s about refusing to back down until the battle for her heart is won! Basically it’s like Braveheart for people who like The Notebook.

My Way by Frank Sinatra

“Regrets, I've had a few, but then again, too few to mention. I did, what I had to do, and saw it through, without exemption.”

This song is about living life on your own terms. It’s about trusting your gut, following your own path, and not giving two shits about what the world thinks about it. It’s about living your life in such a way that you can look back with pride and say, “I did that."

Get Better by Frank Turner

"May I always see the road rising up to meet me and my enemies defeated in the mirror behind.”

This song is off the album "Positive Songs for Negative People". It’s about realizing that current struggles are only temporary. Furthermore, it’s about taking those current struggles, destroying them, and moving forward. End of story.

Have a Nice Day by Bon Jovi

"When the world keeps trying, to drag me down, I've gotta raise my hands, gonna stand my ground, I say, hey, have a nice day.”

Bon Jovi doesn’t curse. At least, I don’t think he curses. If he did, I think this song would be titled “Fuck You”. But it’s not titled that. It’s titled “Have a Nice Day”, the fuck you of the 18th century.

Could Have Been Me by The Struts

"Don't wanna live as an untold story, rather go out in a blaze of glory”

The quote says it all.

Ain't No Rest for the Wicked by Cage the Elephant

"There ain't no rest for the wicked until we close our eyes for good.”

This song is about a prostitute, a thief, and a money laundering preacher. Each one is asked why they chose their path in life. And each gives the same reply: “There ain’t know rest for the wicked. Money don’t grow on trees. We got bills to pay, we got mouths to feed, and ain’t nothing in this world for free.” Essentially, it’s a song about doing what needs to be done to survive.

Ain't No Grave by Johnny Cash

"There ain't no grave can hold my body down.”

Death stops most people. Not Johnny Cash. His album American V became a No. 1 hit posthumously. In fact, many people have achieved fame in death. Now, I’m not suggesting that you go and kill yourself. That would be rude. But it is motivating to think that not even death can stop you.

Dustbowl Dance by Mumford and Sons

"I went out back and I got my gun. I said, 'You haven't met me, I am the only son.'"

This is an angry song. Not emo angry, but angry. Fittingly, it is based on The Grapes of Wrath. Like many Mumford songs, it starts slow and gradually works itself into a furor. I find this crescendo helps drag me from a low-energy state to a high-energy state along with it. Nothing gets me more amped than Marcus Mumford’s tobacco glazed vocals.

Devil's Whisper by Raury

"I'm not trying to be a preacher, I was never a reverend, but I can take your ass to church and show you glimpses of heaven.”

This song is especially motivating for runners. Mostly because it keeps repeating the phrase, “You better run!” But also because it’s got a nice beat.

My Shot by Lin-Manuel Miranda

"Hey yo, I'm just like my country, I'm young, scrappy and hungry, and I am not throwing away my shot!”

Honorable mention goes to My Shot off the Hamilton soundtrack. Broadway albums aren't for everyone, but a listening to a feisty Hamilton always gets my blood flowing.

That’s all, folks! You can get the full playlist here:
https://open.spotify.com/user/ravuswins23/playlist/4RjSXC52FBSshqAllh4gUn

Let me know what songs make you feel like an unstoppable conquerer in the comments below! (Or on Twitter…)

Cheers,
Gray

60 Days of Steemit: Day 4 of 60.