Song for the Climb #5: Don't Stop Believing

"Don't Stop Believing" by Journey

I had to go out big with the last song for the climb. This Journey song may be the song for inspiration--okay I'm probably exaggerating, but as Chris Williams of the Los Angeles Times describes, the odd format of the song (e.g. leaving the chorus for last) and its message continues to move us.

Since it's Friday, bonus videos!:

The original version by Journey live:



And the cast of "Glee" performing their version on Oprah

A Word for the Climb: Smokey Robinson at SXSW

Smokey Robinson, of the legendary "Motown sound," offers wisdom for emerging artists. Very appropriate for a week focused on the climb and the grind.

Memorable quotes from Mr. Robinson:

"Keep your feet on the ground and keep a thick skin."

Preach Smokey!

Song for the Climb #3: Show Love

We don't always realize it, but singers & songwriters are powerful theologians & truth tellers. In Mary J. Blige's song "Show Love" you learn wisdom on:

1. How to deal with haters
2. How to deal with jealousy

AND it's got a hot beat. Bet you remember it a lot better than the sermon you heard on church Sunday;-).

Show Love (Hidden Track) - Mar...

Song for the Climb #2: Get Up

For those moments in the journey when you feel insecure & timid, pump up Mary Mary's "Get Up" for a boost of boldness! Wow, I sound like a Gatorade commercial:-p...anyways, be inspired!

Songs for the Climb

I've been in a place where I feel the pull of my dreams and calling. I set out excited, bursts of energy propelling me in one direction, then the other. Inevitably though, I start to feel like I'm at the base of a vast mountain, and as I look up, the prospect of climbing towards my dream seems overwhelmingly daunting. All the bursts of energy quickly become insufficient to give my legs strength to make the climb.

Today though, I was reminded of the power of community to energize when the climb seems like too much. So I thought I'd give a little energy boost to whoever in the online community may happen to read this by sharing one song each day of this week to re-ignite your spark.

Song for the Climb #1 "Shine" by Laura Izibor

This one is for those days when you feel like you'll be stuck at your desk forever...