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10 Songs to Inspire You to Move up the Ladder of Success

Listening to music is a great way to motivate yourself. That’s why we’ve collected our top favorite songs that will get you pumped up and moving!

songs to inspire you


Motivation comes in many forms, but music takes the top spot as the most inspiring. There’s just something about slipping your headphones on, turning up the volume, and letting the music fill you with good vibes. It’s even better when these songs end up pushing you to get up off your butt and do something about your life.
Some of the most prominent musicians and composers in the world are responsible for songs that make a difference – songs that have inspired people to do something about their lives. If you feel like you’re stuck in a rut and don’t know how to nudge yourself in the right direction, these songs might be able to help.
#1 This Is What You Came For – Calvin Harris, Rihanna. This number-one chart-topper is exactly what you need to get your blood pumping. The lyrics that will resonate with you? “Lightning strikes every time she moves.” Your goal is to leave a lasting impression on whoever looks at you. With this insanely catchy song, you’ll be motivated to go out there and make waves like you never have before.
#2 Power – Kanye West. If Kanye West didn’t love himself so much, this song would have been written for you. The words, “Do it better than anybody you ever seen do itshould give you an idea of how to push forward with your next plan. You’re capable of doing anything you want. Remember… you have the power. [Read: How self respect affects you and your relationship]
#3 Defying Gravity – Idina Menzel. Who knew that the TV show Glee could introduce a musical classic like “Defying Gravity” to the masses? It’s one of the most inspiring songs ever to hit the mainstream crowd, especially because of its heartwarming message. The most significant line for me would be, “It’s time to trust my instincts, close my eyes, and leap!” If that doesn’t inspire you to follow your dreams, I don’t know what will.
#4 Don’t Stop Believing – Journey. Another Glee favorite, this song by journey was a classic in itself before reaching the ears of the younger generation. Not only is it filled with impressive melodic performances by their lead singer and musicians, but it is also steeped in a catchy verse that leaves more than just a shallow lyric. You just can’t go wrong with the only line that matters: “Don’t stop believing.” [Read: Is your negative thinking ruining your life?]
#5 It’s My Life – Bon Jovi. This is for all you millennials out there. And for all you Generation Z members, try to play this at full volume, and we promise you that someone older will probably scream their heart out singing, “It’s my life! It’s now or never! I ain’t gonna live forever. I just wanna live while I’m alive!” It’s that simple. Either you go out there and get what you want, or you’ll end up dying before you’re dead.

#6 On My Own – Whitney Houston. Bless her soul because we truly do miss the Queen of the Night. After doling out classics like “I Wanna Run to You” and “I Have Nothing,” the extremely talented balladeer gave us one of the most inspiring songs to date. As she said, “I live my life the way I feel. No matter what, I’m gonna keep it real. It’s time for me to do it… on my own.” And she’s right – because only you can bring yourself to the pinnacle of your success. Your family and friends will help to nudge you in the right direction, but it’s up to you to follow through and succeed in life. [Read: How to be independent even if you’re in a relationship]
#7 Life Goes On – Leanne Rimes. “Ooohh! Life goes on and it’s only gonna make me strong!” This song is exactly what you need to feel good about yourself because it tells you that there is something better out there for you. No matter what challenges you face or who tries to tell you that you’re not good enough or strong enough, Leanne knows exactly what to say to you. “It’s a fight and I really wanna get it right. It’s my life before me, got this feeling that I can’t go back.”
#8 That’s the Way It Is – Celine Dion. This list would not be complete without one of the most prominent divas out there. Actually… this list seems to be full of pop divas. And why shouldn’t it be? With lyrics such as “Don’t surrender, ‘cause you can win” and “Don’t give up on your faith. Love comes to those who believe it,” you can never go wrong. [Read: 10 things you can do to bring your soulmate to you]
#9 Through the Rain – Mariah Carey. Here’s one more diva that deserves your recognition. This chart-topping hit made waves when it was released. The video was extremely touching because it was inspired by Mariah Carey’s parents and how they overcame their circumstances to find love. You can do that, too. Find love, find success, find happiness – anything is possible because “if you keep falling down, don’t you dare give in. You will arise safe and sound. And you’ll find what you need to prevail.”
#10 Walking on Sunshine – Katrina & the Waves. And last, but not least, this song should round up the list perfectly with its happy and upbeat tune, as well as its simple and inspiring message: “I’m walking on sunshine and don’t it feel good!”
It’s true that the song is mostly about a couple, but you can still apply it to your journey to a successful and better life. How? Because reaching your goal and being proud of what you have feels just as good as walking on sunshine. Oh, and you can also dance to this to motivate yourself every morning when you get up! [Read: 11 quick & easy morning routines to jumpstart a great day]
Have you listened to these songs yet? How did they make you feel? Tell us if you’re pumped up and ready to get off your butt to move up and take over the world in the comments below!

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Danielle Anne
Those who can’t do, teach. I can neither do nor teach as well as others, but I can try. Aside from being a writer, I am also a physical therapist. My dream is...
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