How to Use Music Strategically
for Increased Focus, Productivity, and Happiness

Music is incredibly powefrful. It can bolster your mood, help you get more accomplished, improve your immune system, and create impromptu dance parties.

Photo Credit: kevin dooley

Now, let’s dive into what types of music you can use every day to improve your life in many amazing ways.

How to Use Music Strategically

I use music for just about everything. Though I would never consider myself a “music person,” it’s rare for me to go for more than a few silent moments without freaking out and turning on some tunes.

It’s not that I mind quiet time, it’s that I love how music positively affects me.

From waking up to music every morning on my Sleep Cycle iPhone App, to running, working, and reading before bed – I am listening to music almost every moment that I am awake.

Now, here are some recommendations for great music genres to use throughout your day. I have included links to the specific Pandora stations I use in case you’re interested. (and yes, I use the paid-for version of Pandora – the one without the commercials. It’s awesome!)

Best Music Throughout the Day

Early Mornings: Like I just mentioned, I wake up to soft music on my phone, which is a rather new phenomenon for me. I spent years waking up to a blaring alarm clock – but music is so much more soothing. Stick to something quiet that fades in slowly. Piano music is nice.

Exercise: Techno is my best friend and has been since high school. Between Linkin Park and DJ Tiesto – I always prefer loud and high-energy music when I work out. The only exception is when I listen to audiobooks, which is equally powerful.

Working: Right now, I am writing this blog post while listening to Pandora’s House Music (Beats 4 Dayz Extended Mix) Radio and it’s the absolute best music I have found to focus and get stuff done. It may not be the best music for writing, but the energy is consistent, upbeat, and minimally distracting.

Driving: I love to sing when I drive, probably because it’s the only time during my day when I can belt without anyone actually hearing me. I stick to music with words and songs I know well – especially on road trips.

Admittedly, my favorite music for the car is Acappella. Yes, I’m just a big choir dork who can’t ever get enough four-part harmony. 🙂

Evenings: After work and during dinner I tend to stick to music that is calming. As I prepare for bed I want to ease myself into a meditative state. If I’m not listening to the Soundscapes channel on Comcast, I turn on the Calm Meditation station on Pandora.

Late Nights: When the party is bumping, Top 40 hip-hop and pop run my life. Maybe I spent too many years watching MTV, but I do love Katy Perry (that’s a secret).

More Music, More Often

Whether or not you love the selections of music I listen to, I think all of us can benefit from more music, more often.

Music is a very powerful force that can transform your mood and bring a smile to your face.

Every Friday I blast music at the office (seriously, it’s loud) and people love it. It’s an impromptu dance party that always attracts a crowd.

I think we all could spend a little more time dancing to a good beat. 🙂