It is a lot easier to get discouraged than to take action. Every day, we get flooded with news about the terrible state of the world – yes, it does not look rosy. Does it even make a difference to do something? A lot is going wrong, but most of it is outside my control. How can a person like me do something about the state of the world? Achieving sustainability with music, is it possible?
What those thought patterns have in common is that a tiny bit of hope is hidden in them. Hope needs to be elicited and start growing. I was – and sometimes still am – one of those who think I cannot make a difference. Thinking this way is easier, but a lot more terrifying because our future looks grim when we do nothing. Not taking action is the new salt – it affects our health.
Related:
Climate Anxiety First Aid Kit: Do Not Let Climate Panic Become The Norm
We need to take things seriously, without a doubt, but the omnipresent negative climate jargon does not help to give me the sense that I can contribute to a future that is not terrifying. I truly believe that the overall disengagement comes from the lack of engaging communication – and motivation.
The benefits of music – for you and the world
You might wonder: So what? Facts are facts. Yes, but facts do not change people’s minds –> stories do. One of those mediums for stories is music. Sustainability with music… sounds already better, right?
Storytelling is an increasingly recognised way of understanding our role in the world. It can bring us the motivation we need to keep going despite the flood of chaos around us. In particular, music is an excellent way to improve your cognitive and emotional well-being plus achieving sustainability with music is more motivating.
According to the AARP survey ‘Music Nourishes and Delights’, music helps
- increase your mental well-being
- reduces levels of anxiety and depression
- support your brain health
- you to learn quicker
- you to be happier
Music helps me to let off some steam. When I feel stuck and unsure about what I am doing with my blog, I found one remedy from my youth: Rock music. When I feel like I am losing confidence working in the sustainability space, there is one particular song that gets me back on my feet: Deine Schuld from Die Ärzte.
Achieving sustainability with music – one song at a time
Released on the 12th of July 2044, Deine Schuld translates to Your Fault. Die Ärzte are a German punk-rock band called. I know it might not be the most encouraging title, but let me tell you that it put things into perspective for me to make change happen (for me and hopefully for you too):
Did you get angry again today, was it horrible again?
Did you ask yourself again, why no-one is doing anything?
You don’t have to accept, what simply doesn’t suit you at all
When your head isn’t just for wearing a hat
It is not your fault, that the world is the way it is
It will only be your fault if she stays like this
Don’t believe anyone who says to you that you can’t change anything
Those who claim this are just afraid of change
It is the same ones who say that it’s fine the way it is
And if you want to change anything, you are automatically a terrorist.
It is not your fault, that the world is the way it is
It will only be your fault if she stays like this
Because everyone who doesn’t want to change the world, signs her death sentence.
“Let us talk, because in our beautiful land
everyone is at least theoretically terribly tolerant
Words don’t want to move anything, words don’t hurt anyone
Therefore let us talk about it. Discussions are OK.”
No – go back on the streets again, go demonstrating again
‘Cause those who don’t try to fight anymore – can only lose
Those who mess with you, you chose them yourself
Therefore let them hear your voice, because every voice counts.
It is not your fault, that the world is the way it is
It will only be your fault if she stays like this
What inspires me about this song is that it puts responsibility into my hands. If I do not want the world to be the way it is, I have to take action. Additionally, the song takes away the doubt if my actions make any sense. It is important to stop making bad decision-makers that ruin our livelihoods.
Our actions matter to set the equitable tune in our world
Our voices matter, we all matter. I think we live in an age where we can not afford inaction any longer. The urgency is real. Oftentimes, our fears should not matter more than our desires. The desire for a livable future is worth fighting for.
Another inspiring song is ‘Land of Confusion’ by Genesis (Disturbed has also a good cover of this song).
Moreover, artists have the talent to put societal challenges into empowering songs. Music connects and inspires action. It is easier to save the world on a tune than on empty promises.
What are your inspirational songs which inspire you to action? Do you have any favourite songs which support sustainability with music? I hope you are going to share them with us in the comments below!
What a thought provoking ‘powerful song’, and I LOVE the message within.
I know not all feel like I do, but the voice is growing and this is good…