10 Songs to Feel Empowered While Searching for a Job

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Being on the job hunt  for any length of time can be demoralizing, but it doesn’t have to be.

We tie so much of our self-worth to our careers. When the search lasts longer than we expected, motivation can melt away before our eyes.

Take a good look in the mirror once in a while. Remember all you have achieved and all you are still capable of offering the world.

If the pep talk just isn’t enough, music can be extra motivating. When you’re down, sing yourself back up with these 10 songs:

1. ‘Congratulations’ – Post Malone 

Don’t let the voices from your past keep you down. The only sound you need to listen to is that of your own determination. Just think how good it will feel when you get to look back and say, “Yeah, we made it.”

2. ‘Hall of Fame’ – The Script featuring will.i.am 

Champions come in all shapes and sizes. Whatever it is you want to achieve, plan on being the best you can be at it. “Don’t wait for luck. Dedicate yourself, and you can find yourself standing in the hall of fame.”

3. ‘Thunder’ – Imagine Dragons 

Things may have you down at the moment, but you know what you’re made of. People may not be able to fit you into a mold, but they’ll soon see that’s just what it’s like for people who are the “lightning before the thunder.”

4. ‘My Shot’ – Hamilton Original Broadway Cast Recording 

The title alone sends a clear message. If you ever needed a reminder that your time on this Earth is limited, this is it. Alexander Hamilton was sure as hell not going to throw away his shot. He died when he was 46, and look at all he accomplished. Say it out loud: “I am not throwing away my shot.”

5. ‘Eye of the Tiger’ – Survivor 

Bringing it back to 1983 with this one, and why not? It’s a classic that stands the test of time.

“You trade your passion for glory. Don’t lose your grip on the dreams of the past. You must fight just to keep them alive.” When you need a boost to stay the course, this is as good as it gets.

6. ‘Roar’ – Katy Perry 

Staying with our “Eye of the Tiger” theme, prove all those who stand in your way wrong. Just because you didn’t get the promotion or the job, there’s no reason to stop believing in yourself. Be “louder than a lion.”

7. ‘Empire State of Mind’ – Jay-Z featuring Alicia Keys 

When you’re feeling like you need a total reboot, this song will “make you feel brand new.” So get back on the horse and know “there’s nothing you can’t do.”

8. ‘Fight Song’ – Rachel Platten 

Everybody needs a “take back my life song.” Until you have your own, you can borrow Rachel Platten’s.

9. ‘Lose Yourself’ – Eminem 

When the pressure is on, “you better lose yourself in the music.” You own the moment, and “you better never let it go.” Who doesn’t get motivated when listening to this?

10. ‘It’s My Life’ – Bon Jovi 

This essential Bon Jovi classic tackles a theme we’re all familiar with: “Luck ain’t enough. You’ve got to make your own breaks.”

A version of this article originally appeared on the Atrium Staffing blog.

Michele Mavi is Atrium Staffing ‘s resident career expert.

By Michele Mavi