13 Taylor Swift Songs to Get You Through the Workday (Listen to Taylor’s Version!)
If you’re a Swiftie—or even if you’re not yet one—there’s no denying the powerful impact of Taylor Swift’s music. Her songs have a unique ability to capture deep emotions, inspire creativity, and provide the perfect soundtrack for overcoming challenges. Whether you’re navigating a busy workday filled with emails, preparing for a major presentation, or powering through the dreaded post-lunch slump, Taylor Swift’s music offers something for every moment. Her versatile discography makes it easy to find a track that matches your mood and boosts your productivity. In this playlist, we’ll explore 13 of Taylor Swift’s best songs and explain why they’re perfect for staying motivated and focused during the 9-to-5 grind. Get ready to power through your workday with these iconic tracks!
1. "Bejeweled" (Midnights – Taylor’s Version)
Why it works: "Bejeweled" is a glittering anthem that serves as the perfect reminder of your own brilliance, no matter the challenges or setbacks you may face throughout the workday. This song celebrates confidence and self-worth, encouraging you to embrace your shine and recognize your unique value, even when things feel routine or demanding. In a world where it's easy to get lost in the hustle, "Bejeweled" serves as a playful yet empowering reminder to never forget your sparkle. Whether you're tackling a difficult project or navigating office dynamics, the track’s energy will lift you up and help you reclaim your glow.
Relatable lyric: "Best believe I’m still bejeweled / When I walk in the room / I can still make the whole place shimmer" reminds you that no matter what’s going on, you have the power to leave a lasting impression and exude confidence, turning every room you walk into into a space full of possibility and pride.
2. “Now That We Don't Talk” (Taylor's Version) (From The Vault)
Why it works: Now That We Don't Talk is a reflective song perfect for moments when you're processing complex emotions or navigating professional relationships that have become strained or distant. The song explores the aftermath of a breakup, but its themes can resonate with any relationship—personal or professional—where communication has broken down or tension has risen. It serves as a reminder of the importance of honest dialogue and the impact of unresolved feelings. The relatable lyric, “I cannot be your friend / So I pay the price of what I lost,” speaks to the emotional conflict that can arise when you have lingering feelings after a disconnect, making it ideal for those moments of introspection at work. Whether you're dealing with a difficult coworker, a miscommunication, or just the emotional weight of a challenging situation, this song helps you process your feelings and regain clarity.
3. "Invisible String" (Folklore)
Why it works: "Invisible String" is a perfect song to get you through your workday when you need a moment of reflection on the unexpected connections and serendipitous moments that shape your career and life. It's a reminder that even when things feel uncertain or unplanned, there's often an invisible thread guiding us to where we need to be. The song beautifully captures the idea that life’s twists and turns, both the good and the challenging, are all part of a larger, meaningful journey. When faced with difficult decisions or navigating the complexities of a career, this song encourages you to trust the process, knowing that the experiences you encounter are leading you to where you're meant to be.
Relatable lyric: "Time, curious time / Gave me no compasses, gave me no signs," speaks to the unpredictable nature of life and the feeling of moving forward without clear direction, which can resonate with anyone navigating the ups and downs of their professional path. It’s a reminder that even when you can’t see the full picture, the connections you’re making today may lead to something greater tomorrow.
4. "Clean" (1989 – Taylor’s Version)
Why it works: "Clean" offers a soothing and introspective vibe, making it an excellent track to help you reset and refocus during a chaotic workday. When you're feeling overwhelmed or bogged down by a challenging project, this song encourages a sense of emotional clarity, helping you let go of past frustrations and refocus on the present. The calming melody and reflective lyrics offer a gentle reminder that sometimes, in order to move forward, you need to cleanse your mind and let go of what’s no longer serving you. It's a great track for those moments when you need to emotionally reset and approach your work with a fresh perspective.
Relatable lyric: "The drought was the very worst / When the flowers that we’d grown together died of thirst," speaks to the emotional struggle of holding on to something that’s no longer working, which can mirror the way we sometimes cling to outdated approaches in our work. It reminds us that growth and productivity can only happen when we’re willing to let go of what isn’t helping us thrive.
5. "Anti-Hero" (Midnights – Taylor’s Version)
Why it works: "Anti-Hero" is the perfect song to turn to when imposter syndrome hits and you're feeling like you're not measuring up at work. It's a reminder that everyone has flaws and moments of self-doubt, but that doesn’t define who we are or limit our potential. Taylor Swift’s candid lyrics about her inner struggles resonate with the feeling of questioning your place or abilities, especially in high-pressure work environments. Instead of shying away from imperfections, the song encourages embracing them and recognizing that they don't make us any less capable or worthy.
Relatable lyric: "It’s me, hi, I’m the problem, it’s me," acknowledges the universal human experience of self-reflection, making it easier to accept and move past those moments of self-criticism. This anthem helps you confront your insecurities head-on and empowers you to rise above them, reminding you that even with flaws, you're still capable of great things.
6. "Lavender Haze" (Midnights – Taylor’s Version)
Why it works: "Lavender Haze" is the perfect track to help you get in the zone and focus during a busy workday. Its dreamy, ethereal vibe creates a soothing atmosphere that allows you to shut out distractions and immerse yourself in the task at hand. The mellow yet rhythmic beat encourages a calm but productive state of mind, making it ideal for those moments when you need to power through your to-do list or tackle a challenging project. The relatable lyric “I feel the lavender haze creepin' up on me” beautifully captures the sensation of being enveloped by a sense of clarity and purpose, offering the perfect soundtrack to a focused and grounded work session. Whether you're writing, planning, or strategizing, this track helps you maintain a serene yet steady mindset, helping you navigate through your day with intention and flow.
7. "Wildest Dreams" (1989 – Taylor’s Version)
Why it works: "Wildest Dreams" is the perfect soundtrack for those moments when your mind needs to wander and your imagination is free to explore new ideas. Whether you’re engaged in creative brainstorming or envisioning innovative solutions to complex problems, this song inspires a sense of dreaminess and possibility. Its lush, ethereal sound combined with Taylor's storytelling captures the essence of nostalgia and longing, helping you tap into your own creative energy. The lyrics evoke a sense of beauty and romanticism, making it easier to think outside the box and embrace unconventional ideas.
Relatable lyric: “Say you’ll remember me / Standing in a nice dress, staring at the sunset,” encapsulates a moment of peaceful reflection, encouraging you to let your mind drift toward exciting possibilities, free from the constraints of reality. It’s a great reminder to think big and dream without limits—perfect for fueling your creativity during a workday.
8. "The Man" (Lover)
Why it works: The Man" is the perfect anthem for those days when you need to channel confidence and assert yourself in meetings, pushing through challenges in the workplace. Its message speaks directly to the frustrations many face when dealing with inequality or the pressure to constantly prove oneself. The song highlights the disparity between expectations for men and women, making it especially empowering when you're striving to break free from limitations and embrace your full potential.
Relatable lyric: "I’m so sick of running as fast as I can / Wondering if I’d get there quicker if I was a man," encapsulates the internal battle of feeling undervalued or overlooked, making it the ideal motivational track to remind you of your worth and the power of asserting your voice.
9. "Mastermind" (Midnights – Taylor’s Version)
Why it works: "Mastermind" is the perfect song for those moments when you need to tap into your inner strategist and embrace the brilliance behind your actions. It serves as a reminder of how your careful planning, foresight, and attention to detail shape outcomes, often without others even realizing the effort you’ve put in. Whether you’re handling complex projects or navigating workplace dynamics, this track encourages you to take pride in your ability to craft successful outcomes, even if the results appear effortless. The relatable lyric, “What if I told you none of it was accidental?” underscores the power of intentional decision-making and strategic thinking. It’s a great reminder that your achievements aren’t random—they’re the product of a well-thought-out plan, and you’re the mastermind behind it all.
10. "Ready For It?" (Reputation)
Why it works: "Ready For It?" is the ultimate hype track to get you amped up for big meetings, presentations, or any moment when you need to bring your A-game. The intensity of the song's beats and Taylor Swift's bold, confident delivery mirror the adrenaline rush you might feel when preparing to face a high-stakes situation. Its powerful, assertive tone helps you mentally prepare to take on challenges with confidence and poise. The question "Are you ready for it?" serves as a reminder to embrace the opportunity, step up to the plate, and show everyone what you’re capable of. Whether you're gearing up for a tough conversation or taking on a new project, this song serves as the perfect soundtrack to shift your mindset and get in the zone for success.
11. "Shake It Off" (1989 – Taylor’s Version)
Why it works: "Shake It Off" is the ultimate antidote when you're feeling stressed or caught in the middle of office drama. Its upbeat, energetic vibe encourages you to let go of negativity and not let workplace challenges or criticism get to you. Whether it's dealing with difficult coworkers, frustrating projects, or just the daily grind, this song reminds you to shake off the frustrations and stay focused on your goals. The infectious chorus, with lines like “Cause the players gonna play, play, play, play, play / And the haters gonna hate, hate, hate, hate, hate,” serves as a reminder that people will always have their opinions, but it’s up to you whether or not you let them affect you. It’s the perfect anthem to boost your mood, enhance your resilience, and keep you moving forward, no matter what’s going on around you.
12. "You Need to Calm Down" (Lover)
Why it works: "You Need to Calm Down" is an essential track for those moments when work feels overwhelming or tensions start to rise. It serves as a reminder to take a step back, breathe, and not let external pressures or the negativity of others get to you. The song encourages you to stay grounded and focused, no matter how chaotic or judgmental your environment may feel. In the workplace, where stress can often build up, this anthem helps you regain perspective and maintain your cool. The relatable lyric, “And we see you over there on the internet / Comparing all the girls who are killing it,” reminds you that comparing yourself to others—whether it's on social media or within your professional sphere—can only add to the pressure. Instead, the song advocates for self-empowerment, advocating that you stay true to your path and not get caught up in unnecessary drama or self-doubt. It’s a perfect tune to turn to when you need to calm down, center yourself, and focus on your own success without letting negativity derail your progress.
13. "Delicate" (Reputation)
Why it works: "Delicate" is the ideal track for those moments when you need to stay calm, composed, and focused, especially when navigating stressful situations at work. The song’s soft melody and introspective lyrics offer a gentle reminder that it's okay to embrace vulnerability, even in high-pressure environments. It’s a soothing anthem for when you’re trying to maintain a sense of balance, especially when dealing with the challenges of reputation or self-doubt in the workplace. The lyric, “This ain’t for the best / My reputation’s never been worse, so / You must like me for me,” is a powerful reminder that sometimes, letting go of the pressure to be perfect and simply showing up as your true self is enough. It helps you embrace the reality that you don’t need to put on a facade to be valued and respected—both in the workplace and beyond.
Why Listen to Taylor's Version?
Taylor Swift’s decision to re-record her earlier albums and release them as Taylor's Version is both empowering and meaningful. By choosing to listen to Taylor's Version, you’re supporting an artist who has reclaimed her work and taken a stand for creative ownership. In addition to this powerful message, these re-recordings offer enhanced sound quality and subtle improvements, making each song feel fresh and new.
Taylor Swift's music is more than just entertainment; it's a versatile soundtrack that can elevate your workday. From energetic anthems to reflective ballads, her songs are the perfect backdrop for boosting productivity, sparking creativity, and finding moments of calm. By prioritizing Taylor's Version, you not only support her journey but also experience her artistry in a new light.
So, the next time you’re feeling drained or in need of a spark to fuel your day, turn to Taylor Swift. Her music might just be the catalyst you need to tackle your tasks with renewed energy and embrace the journey ahead.
With this playlist, Taylor Swift will be there to accompany you through every high and low of your workday. Which songs will you add to your own rotation? Share your favorites in the comments—I’d love to hear from you!