Today’s Musical Monday encourages us to take control of our life as we start 2018. In May of 2000, Bon Jovi dropped the bold anthem It’s My Life, the band’s first release since 1995.
The Grammy nominated song struck a chord around the world. It is arguably their most well-known post-1980s hit single, reaching number one in many countries.
It’s My Life was written by Jon Bon Jovi, Richie Sambora, and Max Martin. Bon Jovi later recalled, "I thought I was writing very self-indulgently about my own life and where I was in it. I didn't realize that the phrase 'It's My Life' would be taken as being about everyone. 'It's my life, and I'm taking control.' Everyone kind of feels that way from time to time."
“It's my life
It's now or never
I ain't gonna live forever
I just want to live while I'm alive”
~ Bon Jovi, It’s My Life
Eighteen years ago, Jon Bon Jovi fought to add the lyrics “I did it my way,” a nod to fellow New Jersey native Frank Sinatra. Bon Jovi yearned to call the shots in his own career.
In my life coaching practice, I often hear clients lament circumstances “beyond their control." Reframing the discussion to what is possible to change or control puts a new light on many situations. It's easier to adopt a solution mindset when focused on action rather than obstacles.
The universal theme of proactively accepting responsibility in life is particularly relevant in January. This is a time to set a course for the year and steer into the wind.