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From Sad Girl Energy to Spartan Mode: The Playlist That Got Us Ready

  • Writer: Gail Gramling
    Gail Gramling
  • Apr 20
  • 3 min read

There’s something about music before a big event that changes the whole atmosphere. It becomes more than background noise; it transforms into energy, mindset, confidence, and a little bit of armor. This past Saturday, as Amore and I prepared for the Spartan San Diego race, the music in the room felt just as crucial as lacing up our shoes. It set the tone before we ever stepped onto the course.


The Power of Music


Amore usually loves that bad-girl country radio vibe, the kind of music that makes you stand taller and move with purpose. Think Miranda Lambert, Jessie Murph, and Maren Morris. These strong women deliver fearless lyrics, a little edge, and a whole lot of attitude. Their songs make you feel like you can tackle anything in front of you—mud pits, walls, ropes, hills, all of it.


But this Saturday morning, the algorithm clearly had other plans. Instead of gunpowder and lead, it served up broken hearts and sad goodbyes. One slow song after another had us sounding more post-breakup than pre-race. I looked at Amore and said, “This is sad-girl energy. I need some bad bit*ch energy.”


A Shift in Energy


Without missing a beat, Amore grabbed the phone and changed the station. Suddenly, the room shifted as GloRilla and Sexxy Red came through the speaker with "WHATCHU KNO ABOUT ME." Just like that, we were back. Confidence surged. Shoulders squared, shoes tied tighter. Game faces on.


That was exactly the energy we needed to prepare for the 3.9 miles of dirt, rocks, walls, and cargo nets we were about to tackle. Music has a funny way of shifting everything in an instant. One moment you’re lost in your feelings; the next, you’re ready to dominate an obstacle course.


Memories in Melody


What I love most is how music becomes part of the memory. Now, whenever I hear that song, I’ll think of race morning, laughter, adrenaline, and the two of us getting our minds right before facing a challenge together.



Finding Your Rhythm


Before any big event, we all reach for something to steady us. Some people pray, some sit in silence, some visualize. And some of us turn up the volume. This past Saturday reminded me that the right playlist can do more than pump you up; it can remind you who you are before you go prove it.


Embracing the Journey


As I reflect on that day, I realize how important it is to embrace the journey. Each race is not just about crossing the finish line; it’s about the moments leading up to it. The laughter, the nerves, and yes, the music. It all plays a part in shaping our experience.


The Soundtrack of Life


Life is like a playlist. There are upbeat tracks that make you dance, slow songs that bring tears, and everything in between. Each song tells a story, just like our lives. We can choose to play the songs that uplift us, that remind us of our strength, and that inspire us to keep moving forward.


Creating Your Own Playlist


So, what’s on your playlist? What songs make you feel invincible? I encourage you to curate a collection of tracks that resonate with you. Let them be your armor before you face challenges. Whether you’re preparing for a race, a presentation, or a personal milestone, the right music can set the tone.


The Takeaway


In the end, it’s about finding what empowers you. For me, it’s the energy of a good song. For you, it might be something different. Whatever it is, embrace it. Let it guide you, uplift you, and remind you of your strength.


And then, of course, I write about it. Listen to my favorite playlist here.


Let’s keep sharing our stories and supporting one another on this journey of personal growth and self-discovery. Together, we can find our voices and inspire others to do the same.

 
 
 

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