20 Songs to Listen to When You Need Inspiration

There are days when most of us lack the inspiration to do the things that we need or want to do. Those times when it feels like everything is not right, and you don’t know how you can move forward. If you are feeling this way, then there are many things you can do to feel inspired again. One of those is through music or listening to inspiring songs.

Music is amazing, and the songs you listen to can actually change the way you see the things happening in your life. Finding the right motivational song or inspiring lyrics is one of the things that can give you a kick in the backside. These songs can provide you with a quick pick me up and inspire you to accomplish your goals. Aside from that, music can also remind you about appreciating your life and lift you up when you need it. 

woman listening to music with eyes closed

If you are looking for songs that you can listen to when you need inspiration, you’re in the right place. Here are 20 of the best inspirational songs we can recommend. 

1. Skyscraper by Demi Lovato

This song will tell you that life has its ups and downs, but it is up to you to build strong foundations and your own skyscrapers. This song is best for people who are seeing obstacles blocking their goals. It will remind you that you can evade those obstacles and build back up. As the lyrics say, “Go on and try to tear me down, I will be rising from the ground.”

2. Somewhere Over the Rainbow by Israel Kamakawiwo’ole

This song is originally sung in the Wizard of Oz by Judy Garland, who played as Dorothy. It is about getting to brighter pastures. Therefore, if you are thinking about your future plans, you will be more inspired if you listen to this song. 

3. Stronger (What Doesn’t Kill You) by Kelly Clarkson

This song will help you evaluate your life when something goes wrong or has not gone as you plan. It will teach you to learn from the experience and come back fighting so you can reach your goals. 

4. Don’t Stop Believing by Journey

When you start on something, and it hasn’t gone as planned, this song will remind you that it’s not always going to be smooth. However, you need to remember what motivated you to start it and how it felt in the beginning. This song will inspire you to strive to reinvent that feeling. 

5. Tubthumping by Chumbawumba

This song will teach you about the importance of persistence. It will inspire you to take setbacks into your stride. It is the perfect song for sports enthusiasts who are looking for inspiration to keep on playing their game. 

6. I Believe I Can Fly by R. Kelly

This is easily one of the most inspirational songs out there. It can make us believe that we can soar and achieve all of our goals and dreams in life. 

7. Beautiful by Christina Aguilera

This is a highly relevant and powerful song. It is perfect for those who have gone through a difficult relationship or experience, which led them to question themselves and their innermost beauty. This song will inspire you to always feel beautiful.

8. Man in the Mirror by Michael Jackson

This popular song by Michael Jackson is about looking at yourself. It will inspire you to become a better person every day. Aside from that, it will also motivate you to help in making the world a better place. 

9. Livin’ On a Prayer by Bon Jovi

When you feel like everything in your life is going wrong and you are hanging by a thread, listen to this song by Bon Jovi. It is one of the best songs that can inspire you if you are struggling. 

10. What a Wonderful World by Louis Armstrong

This is probably one of the most uplifting songs of all time. This song will remind you to look for and appreciate the beauty in the little things. It will tell you that the world has enough good to keep you inspired to live it up, no matter how difficult life can get. 

11. Started from the Bottom by Drake

When you listen to this song, you will be inspired to put in the work and achieve your goals. It is a song where Drake shares his road to success. It can remind you that even if you are only starting at the bottom, you can definitely reach great heights if you work hard. 

12. Survivor by Destiny’s Child

This song will definitely inspire you to reflect on your personal strength and resilience. It will remind you that you always have the power to turn a negative situation or experience into a positive one. 

13. I Will Survive by Gloria Gaynor

This song is probably the best girl power anthem. It is a straightforward song that is about self-empowerment, self-worth and standing up for yourself. Aside from that, it will also inspire you to thrive in the aftermath of disappointment or heartbreak. 

14. Not Afraid by Eminem

This song by Eminem is also about standing up for yourself. If you are looking for a confidence boost to face something or someone, this is the perfect song you can listen to. 

15. Dream On by Aerosmith

The song Dream On was written by Steven Tyler when Aerosmith was down on its luck. It worked out for them, that’s why it is one of the best inspirational songs you can also listen to when you are down. It will inspire you to go for your dreams. 

16. Hero by Mariah Carey

This song will remind you that you can be your own hero. The message of this song will always stand the test of time. It is a great song to listen to if you feel like giving up. 

17. Hall of Fame by The Script

This song by The Script will make you feel like you are a winner. Aside from that, it will also remind you of your worth and what you can accomplish. It is the perfect song to listen to when you are doing something that you feel like is impossible. 

18. You Gotta Be by Des Ree

This is an empowering song and a confidence-boosting anthem. This song will inspire you to set your goals and conquer your day. It is perfect for those who are struggling with work, school, or whatever activity that needs confidence. 

19. Harder, Better, Faster by Daft Punk

If you are looking for an inspiration to become more productive, then this can be your ultimate jam. This song will remind you that no goals are achieved without putting in some hard work. It will inspire you to work hard, better, and fast to achieve your dreams. 

20. Get Up Stand Up by Bob Marley

If you’ve experienced downfalls and failures, this song will inspire you to try again. It will tell you that it’s not over yet, it’s not yet the end, and you can always start over. 

These are the 20 inspirational songs you can listen to when you need inspiration. When you are feeling down or unmotivated, maybe one of the songs on this list will inspire you to keep going to achieve your goals. And after listening to these inspirational songs, maybe you can also try watching inspirational movies