As solopreneurs, we’re no strangers to the ebb and flow of emotions, ideas, and energy that come with building something truly our own. Sometimes, we find ourselves drawn to a particular song, playing it over and over again. For many, this habit is more than just a preference for a catchy tune—it’s a window into our state of mind, our emotions, and perhaps even the phase of life or business we’re navigating.

Recently, I found myself on a plane, headphones in, listening to Luke Combs’ song “Going, Going, Gone” on repeat for 90 minutes straight. At first glance, it might seem like an odd thing to do, but for me, it was an experience that felt deeply aligned with my current journey as a solopreneur.

The Rhythm and the Lyrics: Which Do You Hear?

There’s a common belief that people fall into one of two camps when it comes to listening to music: those who are drawn to the rhythm and melody, and those who listen for the lyrics. While both aspects are integral to any song, our focus on one over the other often reveals something about where we are emotionally and mentally.

As solopreneurs, we might find ourselves leaning into the rhythm when we’re in need of momentum, energy, or a sense of forward motion. The beat becomes a companion to our work, driving us forward through tasks, brainstorming sessions, or even moments of doubt.

On the other hand, when we listen to a song for its lyrics, we might be seeking connection, understanding, or validation of our feelings. Lyrics can resonate with our experiences, putting into words the emotions we’re grappling with—whether that’s the excitement of a new project or the bittersweetness of letting go of something that no longer serves us.

Why We Listen on Repeat

Listening to a song on repeat can be a powerful tool for self-reflection. It can indicate that a particular theme, message, or emotion in the song is something we’re working through or need to explore more deeply. For solopreneurs, this might manifest in several ways:

• Emotional Processing: If you’re in a season of change, growth, or challenge, a song’s lyrics or rhythm might resonate so deeply that you feel compelled to hear it again and again. This repetition helps you process what you’re experiencing, giving you space to reflect on your journey.
• Finding Comfort: The life of a solopreneur can be unpredictable, with highs and lows that sometimes feel overwhelming. Repeating a song that brings comfort, familiarity, or even a sense of stability can be a way to ground yourself amidst the chaos.
• Seeking Inspiration: When a song captures the essence of what you’re striving for, whether it’s a feeling of freedom, success, or peace, listening on repeat can reinforce that vision. It keeps you connected to your goals and dreams, even when the path ahead feels uncertain.

The Solopreneur’s Soundtrack

For me, “Going, Going, Gone” became the soundtrack to a moment of introspection and realization. The song’s theme of embracing change, letting go, and moving forward resonated with where I am in my journey—on the cusp of great personal and professional growth, ready to let go of the old to make way for the new.

As solopreneurs, we often move through phases where certain songs speak to us more than others. These songs become markers of our journey, capturing the essence of where we are and where we’re headed. They remind us that we’re not alone in our experiences and that even in the solitude of solopreneurship, there’s a rhythm to our lives that connects us to something greater.

Reflective Questions

The next time you find yourself listening to a song on repeat, consider asking yourself:

• What emotions or thoughts does this song evoke for me?
• Am I more drawn to the lyrics or the rhythm, and why might that be?
• How does this song relate to where I am in my solopreneur journey right now?

By tuning into the songs that resonate with us, we can gain deeper insights into our inner world, helping us navigate our solopreneur journey with greater awareness and intention. So, the next time you hit “repeat,” know that you’re not just listening to music—you’re connecting with the rhythm of your own growth as a person and business owner.