by Sarah Frances Wright

Created on: January 17, 2008

I find that listening to music at work is comforting. I have worked without music and now that I have access to internet radio or personal choices from my own CDs downloaded, it's a much more pleasant atmosphere.

What makes it even better is that my co-worker, who is maybe 10 years younger than I am, likes the same kind of music that I do, so I don't feel uncomfortable listening to a lot of 80's music. I try not to have it too loud, making it easier to listen and talk to others if needed. Of course, there are times when a good song comes on, and it's hard to resist not turning the volume up.

Working at a newspaper can be stressful, and if a little music lightens the mood, I'm all for it. If I fail to turn some music on when I get there, it doesn't take long for me to realize that there is something missing. When it comes down to what we call "putting the paper out," a little "Under Pressure" is appropriately played. When it finally gets sent over electronically, "Another One Bites the Dust" is a good ending to the stressful day.

Of course, there are times when I have to change the internet radio station, in order to filter out some of the more distracting songs. You know, those types of songs that make you want to pull your hair out in frustration that someone actually made money singing it. All I have to do is remind myself that it only takes a click to change it to something else, or to choose from my own collection of downloaded music.

While some may enjoy the classical style of music, I find that it tends to make me sleepy. That isn't such a good idea while working, so I stick to rock-n-roll, pop and 80's, with a smattering of r&b or maybe even a little rap. Nothing too hard-core, mind you, but a good variety makes for better listening enjoyment.

In a world where MP3 players, iPods and music-playing cell phones are reigning supreme, it's no wonder that music is a big part of our lives. Having music at work is a perk for some, while it may be a downfall for others. Finding out which side of the music spectrum you are on is totally up to you.

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