Confession time: I like Eminem.
Now, I get that might sound like a stretch for a 45 year old (though I hear it's the new 38), living in suburbia. But I do. Really. And for a whole host of reasons, including those that others might frown on, re: his lyrics, attitude and bad boy rapper shtick.
To all his haters, that's your call. Whatever.
My call is that he's a talented dude, whose figured out how to package his act. Love him or hate him, he's got talent and game.
Whether or not its your cup of game, is a whole other story.
Drink in peace, either way.
Now that I got that public display of affection out of the way, and in return the likely rebuke of some for the mere mention of my Slim Shady admiration (for the record, I understand and appreciate the concerns in terms of his influence on young minds; gotta keep that in check, for sure) - I'm going to make another confession. One that I hope might help you, as it has me.
Here's the deal.
Recently, every morning, I started playing Eminem's (old school) song Lose Yourself. It's my new anthem to pump me up, and jump start my day. I like the beat, the lyrics (yes, absolutely the uncensored version) and most of all, the energy; it's pulsating.
I also groove on the title, and think its a great mantra given the realities of work and life. Because more often than not, our individual selves are our own worst enemy when it comes to getting the right things done.
Know what I mean?
Typically, it's our own personal shortcomings, paradigms, ignorance, attitudes, my-ways, and the not-invented-here-syndromes that get in the way - not others'. Even if it is the others' fault, we only compound it by sticking to our proverbial guns.
It's true.
Which is why for me, the song not only revs my engine and fuels my motivation with that gritty, humble swagger that helps drive my work and determinaton - it also reminds me to keep my ego and blind spots in check - in hopes that I don't let myself and "my way," get in the way of the right way. You dig?
Now, here's an idea.
Why not give it a try, yourself. Whether you're a fan or not of rap, Eminem, or the song ... and even if you are a gold card member of the houghty-toughty-snooty-society-club ... and never cursed, cussed or swaggered a day in your life ... try listening to the song every morning (cranked up) on your iPod (with headphones) for the next 10 days (straight). Seriously, play it (loud with headphones) for 10 days (straight) every morning right before you start your work, and see what it (amazingly) does for you.
Heck, you just might be pleasantly surprised. Especially if it inspires you, like it does me - to, as Mr. Mathers rhymes - make "success the only *$#@! option; failure's not." Word.
Motivating Music Is Good.
PS: If you're looking to add a couple more "best-of" Eminem beats to your not-for-the-timid-pump-me-up playlist, download Like Toy Soldiers and Beautiful. It's the trifecta energizer. Abbott out.
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