Life | 2018 Summarized with Songs
Introduction
I had a hard time deciding what to do with the year coming to an end. I considered posting a favorite Instagram story from each month, but as I looked back through my archived stories, I found that I didn't have any particularly great ones until August or so. Perhaps that's something I can do next year, now that I'm more active on my Instagram account.
Instead of posting several stories, I've decided to instead post twelve songs: one for each month. These songs summarize my experience and feelings regarding each month of the year. Creating the playlist was a pretty interesting exercise; it caused me to reflect on the year and everything that has happened.
What Happened in 2018?
In 2018, I bought a house, made and lost friends, started and finished The Imperfect's Journal, released Say It If You Mean It, and more. I had a car accident in July. I walked out on a job at State Farm due to a manager's unchecked violence, was then used as a temp (without my knowledge) at Stonelock, and then found a job that both met and exceeded my standards with United Health. I was lucky enough to fall for someone wonderful, unlucky enough to lose her, and fortunate enough to get her back in time for the new year. I took a spontaneous trip to Nebraska with my best friend. I went to concerts, started a company, hosted a party, and ultimately... had a pretty good year.
When I think about 2018 as a whole, not the specifics, it seems like a crappy period in my life. That's just at first glance, though. Creating this playlist caused me to really look back and think about what I've accomplished and experienced. Some of it was bad, yes, but overall I'm in a much better place now than I was when 2018 started. This year had its ups and downs, but seeing where I am now, I wouldn't trade it for anything. I am thrilled with the present and eager for the future. 2018 really wasn't as bad as I've allowed myself to believe that it was and I'm excited to see what 2019 has in store.
If I were to summarize 2018 simply, I would say that it was a year dedicated to building a foundation. Many things were put into place that will bring about excellent results in a year or two. This new year, I intend to focus on building upon the foundation that was laid this year. I can't wait to see what 2019 brings me.
The Playlist
Before the Music Starts...
Before diving into the playlist, I want to encourage you to make one of your own. You don't have to share it with anyone (of course, feel free to do so!), but the actual act of reflecting on each month and finding a song to match those months will likely bring back some memories and help you think more intensely about the past year. I'm glad that I did this, as it ultimately painted 2018 in a positive light, which I was not expecting.
January |
Agnes - Glass Animals
These days you're rolling all the time
So low so you keep getting high
Where went that cheeky friend of mine?
Where went that billion-dollar smile?
February |
Normal (stripped) - Sasha Sloan
I should go, it's getting late
But I'ma keep on dancing 'till I feel okay
So keep on playing that song that I don't like
I just wanna feel normal for the night
March |
Who Am I - Tayler Buono
Actually, I'm awesome
Surprised you couldn't tell
To beat the criticizing, over-analyzing
Started to forget my identity
April |
Hey Look Ma, I Made It
Hey look ma, I made it
Everything's comin' up aces, aces
If it's a dream, don't wake me, don't wake me
I said hey look ma, I made it
May |
You Had Me At Hello - A Day To Remember
What have I gotten into this time around
I know that I had sworn I'd never trust anyone again
But I didn't have to
You had me at hello
June |
Obsession [Acoustic] - Vice (feat. Jon Bellion)
25, 25/7
I give you all my attention
Baby, you're my obsession
25, 25/7
I give you love and affection
July |
Super Far - LANY
Got me begging for affection
All you do is roll your eyes
Broken down, I've had enough
If this is love, I don't want it
August |
Giving Up Ground - Chelsea Cutler (feat. Quinn XCII)
But you know I'm done pretending I'm wrong when it's not my fault
And baby, I'm done pretending it's
Tell the next guy all the things that you told me
All you let slip, 'cause you were hurt and you were lonely
I've found that giving up ground ain't what I want
September |
Happier - Marshmello (feat. Bastille)
Then only for a minute
I want to change my mind
'Cause this just
I want to raise your spirits
I want to see you smile but
Know that means I'll have to leave
October |
Here - Alessia Cara
I
So holla at me I'll be in the car when you're done
I'm standoffish, don't want what you're offering
And I'm done talking
November |
No Right To Love You [Acoustic]- Rhys Lewis
'Cause I have no right to love you
When I chose to walk away
I have no right to miss you
When I didn't wanna stay
And I have no right to need you
And I knew what my heart was gonna lose
I have no right to love you
But I do, I still do
December |
Crack the Shutters - Snow Patrol
I could sit for hours
Finding new ways to be awed each minute
'Cause the daylight seems to want you
Just as much as I want you
Conclusion
If you want the Google Play version of this playlist, here's the link.
I also have the full playlist assembled on Spotify here.
This was a really fun exercise for me. It not only forced me to reflect on my entire year, it also caused me to realize just how good this year turned out to be. There were many low points, sure, but there were so many highs to counterbalance the lows. Ultimately, 2018 allotted for personal and professional growth that will carry into the new year.
If you have time, I'd encourage you to make a playlist in the same manner I did--think back to where you were during each month and find a song that best reflects that period of your life. You might derive joy from looking back on your year; I know that I did.