a woman with headphones on with music in the background

Top 10 Songs That Inspire Me

Music has always been a true refuge in times of struggle for me. Its ability to enable us to feel understood and ultimately, not alone in our struggles, is undeniably unparalleled.

This is a playlist that keeps me going during the hardest moments when you feel like no one understands you and the loneliness starts to become overwhelming.

My inspirational playlist

In no particular order, I hope these help you as much as they help me.

1. Who You Are – Jessie J

Tears don't mean you're losing, everybody's bruising... There's nothing wrong with who you are.

This is a song that requires no modification or adaptation. It is an inspirational sound with such simple lyrics that need no deciphering.

2. ADHD – Joyner Lucas

Don't call me up like I don't have a voice. I think I was born different, I ain't really have a choice.

Even if rap isn't your thing, I highly urge you to give this song a chance. Although speaking of ADHD, this song can speak to chronic conditions. Joyner Lucas was diagnosed with ADHD as a child and misunderstood for most of his life. This entire album is truly inspiring.

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3. Fight Song – Rachel Platten

This is my fight song, take back my life song... And I don't really care if nobody else believes, 'cause I've still got a lot of fight left in me.

This is one of those powerful songs that, no matter how low you're feeling, always manages to fill you with a surge of determination and power.

4. Head Above Water – Avril Lavigne

My life is what I'm fighting for, can't part the sea, can't reach the shore. And my voice becomes the driving force. I won't let this pull me overboard.

Avril Lavigne actually wrote this song after a terrifying experience with an illness that truly made her believe she wasn't going to make it. Her will to live and fight is undeniable in this song.

5. Human – Christina Perri

But I'm only human, and I bleed when I fall down. I'm only human, and I crash and I break down.

This sentimental song is probably best when you're feeling down and want to listen to something that you feel you can relate to. It's simply heart-wrenching.

6. The Climb – Miley Cyrus

The struggles I'm facing, the chances I'm taking. Sometimes might knock me down, but, no, I'm not breaking.

There's something about this song that just gives me strength. I have always been passionately in love with this Miley Cyrus song since 2009 but only began associating it with my narcolepsy when I was diagnosed in 2017. It then began to take on a whole new meaning.

7. Rise Up – Andra Day

You're broken down and tired, of living life on a merry-go-round. And you can't find the fighter, but I see it in you, so we gonna walk it out.

If any song can make you feel completely immersed in its emotion, this song can. It's so extremely powerful; it gives you shivers.

8. Keep Your Eyes Open – Needtobreathe

Tear down the prison walls. Don't start the curtain call. Your chains will never fall until you do.

This song is the one song that makes me believe that anything is possible. It allows me to believe in myself, regardless of my limitations.

9. She Used To Be Mine – Sara Bareilles

If I'm honest, I know I would give it all back, for a chance to start over, and rewrite an ending or two. For the girl that I knew.

If any song can bring me to tears every single time, it is this song — a true favourite for hard times.

10. This is Me – Keala Settle

I am brave, I am bruised, I am who I'm meant to be, this is me. Look out 'cause here I come. And I'm marching on to the beat I drum. I'm not scared to be seen, I make no apologies, this is me.

A song to help you understand that you need not apologize for who you are. This song is one of my absolute favourites. It is uplifting, inspirational, and truly fitting. I cannot imagine that anyone would have a hard time relating to this song.

So this is my top 10. Share what songs would be on your playlist!

This article represents the opinions, thoughts, and experiences of the author; none of this content has been paid for by any advertiser. The Narcolepsy.Sleep-Disorders.net team does not recommend or endorse any products or treatments discussed herein. Learn more about how we maintain editorial integrity here.

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