"Listen to the song that is playing in your heart"

When we hear the phrase "Listen to the song that is playing in your heart," it’s basically telling us to pay attention to our inner voice—our true desires and passions. It’s all about tuning in to what we genuinely want in life, not just what others expect from us.

Historically, this idea pops up in various forms across different cultures and philosophies. Think back to the ancient Greeks who talked about knowing oneself. Or even more recently, Steve Jobs encouraged people to “follow their heart and intuition” in his famous Stanford commencement speech. This quote is part of that same lineage—urging us to listen to our inner selves to find fulfillment and purpose.

Imagine this: you’ve always dreamt of being a painter. Every time you pick up a brush, you feel this rush of excitement and contentment. But, society and maybe even your family push you towards a more 'stable' career—like becoming an accountant. You could ignore that inner song and follow the well-trodden path. Or, you could listen to your heart and pursue painting. Think of Vincent van Gogh. He struggled immensely during his life, facing rejection and poverty. But he painted because that was the song in his heart. Today, his works are some of the most celebrated pieces of art worldwide.

Now, how do you apply this in your own life? Start by clearing the noise around you. For a while, forget about societal pressures, expectations, and even the well-meaning advice from loved ones. Take some time to introspect. What are the activities that make you lose track of time? What sparks joy and excitement in you? Those are the melodies you need to pay attention to.

To make it more concrete, let's say you’re stuck in a 9-to-5 job that drains you. Every day feels like a drag, but you always find solace in gardening. You love the feel of the soil, the sight of plants growing—it's like your therapy. Instead of dismissing this as just a hobby, why not explore it further? Maybe you can start a small garden business or a blog sharing gardening tips. It's about taking those small but significant steps towards what truly makes your heart sing.

Think about Sarah, a friend of mine. She was a high-flying corporate lawyer. From the outside, her life looked perfect—great paycheck, prestigious job, the works. But she wasn’t happy. Her heart wasn’t in it. What she really loved was baking. I remember her bringing the most amazing cupcakes to gatherings. So, after a lot of soul-searching, she left her job and started a bakery. It wasn’t easy—transitioning careers never is—but she’s happier now than she ever was in the corporate world. Her bakery is doing well, and she gets to spend her days surrounded by the delicious scent of freshly baked goods.

In essence, listening to the song that’s playing in your heart is about aligning your life with what truly makes you happy and fulfilled. It takes courage, no doubt. But the rewards—both emotional and sometimes even financial—can be life-changing. So, dare to tune into that inner melody. Trust it. Follow it. You might just find the happiness and purpose you’ve been seeking.