Reflecting on 2024: A Musical Year-End Review

With 2025 a few days old, I have given myself time to pause and reflect on the year that was 2024. What went well? What tested me? How did I grow?

For years, I have tried traditional year-end reviews, but something always felt off—they didn’t truly resonate with me. This time, I tried something different. I turned to music and took on a 4-song challenge—a simple yet powerful way to reflect on the year and set my intentions for the next.

Each song represents a phase, a lesson, or an aspiration. It’s more than an exercise; it’s a way to deeply connect with your experiences and move into the new year with clarity and purpose.

Here’s how I created my musical year-end review—and how you can too.

Step 1: Envision the Year Ahead

Think back to January 2024. What were your hopes, dreams, and intentions for the year?

For me, Hinder’s “The Best Is Yet to Come” captured the energy and optimism I wanted to carry into the year. It was a reminder of how I envisioned myself stepping into 2024.

Over to you: Take a moment to find a song that represents your vision. It’s a great way to reconnect with where your journey began.

Step 2: Acknowledge the Realities

Now, take an honest look at how 2024 turned out. What challenges tested you? What surprised you? How did you respond? What went well, and what didn’t?

For me, this step was deeply personal. Linkin Park’s “Numb” became the song that reflected some struggles and dark moments I faced during the year.

Your turn: Choose a song that mirrors the essence of your 2024—the highs, the lows, and everything in between. This step requires honesty, but it’s also where growth begins.

Step 3: Uncover the Insights

Next, reflect on the lessons you have learned. What insights did you gain from your challenges? What strengths did you uncover, and where do you feel you grew the most?

For this step, I chose Jin’s (BTS) “Abyss.” Its lyrics and mood resonated with me as I worked through rediscovering inner strength and self-worth.

Your reflection: Find a song that captures what you’ve learned. It is not just about what was hard—it is about the wisdom and growth you’re taking into the future.

Step 4: Set Intentions for 2025

Finally, look ahead. What energy, mindset, and goals do you want to bring into 2025?

For me, G-Dragon’s “Home Sweet Home” feels like the perfect choice. It reflects my desire to rebuild a foundation of happiness and belonging—a theme I’m leaning into this year.

Your intentions: Choose a song that inspires you and serves as a melodic reminder of where you’re heading in the year ahead.

Why Music?

Music has an incredible way of connecting us to our emotions, memories, and dreams. It’s often more powerful than words, unlocking insights that traditional journaling or goal-setting might not.

For me, this 4-song review helped me honour my journey and embrace the next chapter with intention and clarity.

Your Turn

If this resonates with you, why not try it yourself? Choose four songs that represent:

1. Your vision for 2024.
2. The realities you faced.
3. The lessons you learned.
4. Your hopes for 2025.

What’s your 2024 soundtrack? I would love to hear your story through music—feel free to share it in the comments or reflect on it privately. Either way, may 2025 be a year of growth, clarity, and your own beautiful soundtrack.