Songs to put you in a project management state of mind

 

As a teenager who had an eclectic taste in music, one of my hobbies was attempting to create the perfect mix tape to fit the theme of different activities I would do such as studying, working out or just relaxing.

So how about project management? To quote Barney Stinson: "Challenge accepted!"

1. Can I Play With Madness (Iron Maiden): You know those projects where it seems no one has a clue about what we are trying to achieve? "Can I play with madness? The prophet stared at his crystal ball ; Can I play with madness? There's no vision there at all"
2. You Can't Always Get What You Want (Rolling Stones): There is no better song to help set stakeholder expectations about focusing on their needs.
3. The Gambler (Kenny Rogers): This would make a good level setting tune for a risk response workshop, especially for those who feel the glass is always half full. "You've got to know when to hold 'em ; Know when to fold 'em ; Know when to walk away ; And know when to run"
4. That's Life (Frank Sinatra): After the team has just received some bad news or is recovering after a painful issue, this song helps to put things into perspective. "Each time I find myself flat on my face ; I pick myself up and get back in the race"
5. Nothing Else Matters (Metallica): This is a good song for building self-reliance, self-organization and the willingness to inspect and adapt in teams. "Trust I seek and I find in you, Every day for us something new, Open mind for a different view"
6. In The End (Linkin Park): "Time is a valuable thing ; Watch it fly by as the pendulum swings ; Watch it count down to the end of the day ; The clock ticks life away". 'Nuff said!
7. People Are People (Depeche Mode): When the team is storming and what makes us different is dividing us. "So we're different colours ; And we're different creeds ; And different people have different needs"
8. Three Little Birds (Bob Marley): What could be a more cheerful and uplifting song to kick off a daily standup for your team? "Don't worry about a thing, 'cause every little thing gonna be all right."
9. Don't Let Me Be Misunderstood (The Animals): Whenever you feel there has been a breakdown in the basic communication model, just sing "I'm just a soul whose intentions are good ; Oh Lord, please don't let me be misunderstood"
10. We Are The Champions (Queen): A gracious project manager will always acknowledge the contribution of the entire team. "I've taken my bows ; And my curtain calls ; You brought me fame and fortune and everything that goes with it ; I thank you all"

So what would you add for YOUR project management mix tape?