Teens walk around with one – or both – earbuds firmly in their ears. In some settings, like school or family gatherings, it might not be appropriate. But when it comes to some specific goals, music can be helpful. A new body of research is emerging about the power of music to help us with creativity, happiness, productivity, and brainpower. These are all characteristics teens need as they wrap up their school year.
- Creativity – The range of 50-80 beats per minute can help induce the “alpha” state of mind in which we experience calmness and alertness. In this state our imagination is stimulated and concentration is heightened.
- Happiness – Uptempo music with between 140 and 150 beats per minute written in a major key with lyrics about happy events or even complete nonsense is best.
- Productivity – For repetitive or boring tasks, research says that we should simply listen to whatever music we like best. A recent study found that in offices that play music that did not match employees’ preferences, the employees performed worse and felt more mentally exhausted.
- Brainpower – Research shows students who need to focus and concentrate in an exam-like situation should avoid music. If there is a need for something to drown out other distractions or if students are desperate for some background music, the recommendation is to go with something instrumental and lyric-free.
Read more about each of the studies used to compile these recommendations and find playlists that fit each goal in this article.