Taylor Swift has been the voice of a generation since her days as country royalty. No matter what genre she has adopted as her own, her lyrics and gift for storytelling are universal across her discography. She’s guided listeners through breakups, new loves, friendships and times when they just needed a confidence boost. VALLEY collected a few of Taylor’s best words of wisdom for you to reference whenever the right occasion strikes.
Dating
Taylor Swift; “happiness”
There’ll be happiness after you, but there was happiness because of you. Both of these things can be true.
After a breakup, the dread spiral is bound to engulf you. Questions like: What if? What could have been? What now? are floating through your head. Instead of counting all the invested time and emotions into a failed relationship as a waste, Taylor acknowledges the good times that come from romantic relationships.
Taylor Swift; “Picture to Burn”
I realize you love yourself more than you can ever love me.
“Picture to Burn” is an iconic breakup song that empowers you to forget about that shitty ex of yours and realize that you were too good for them all along. Knowing just how much you’re worth is the perfect reminder you need after a messy breakup.
Self-Love
Taylor Swift; “Innocent”
Minds change like the weather, I hope you remember: Today is never too late to be brand new.
As you go through life, you grow and change. Taylor reminds listeners to accept the opportunity to adapt and experience new things as something to treasure, not shy away from. Every new day is an opportunity to try again.
Taylor Swift; “the 1”
If you never bleed you’re never gonna grow.
Life’s challenges are what make us stronger. Without them, Taylor reminds us that we can’t grow into the people we are meant to be. Each difficulty is a chance to learn something new about yourself.
Taylor Swift; “Daylight”
I want to be defined by the things I love, not the things I hate.
This lyric is an essential reminder to focus on the good. Getting caught up in a negative thought spiral instead of appreciating all the things you love in this life is only going to hurt you in the long run. Centering the people, moments and things that bring you joy is the way to go. Taylor says so.
Friendship
Taylor Swift; “long story short”
Your nemeses will defeat themselves before you get the chance to swing.
The only thing worse than a romantic breakup is a friendship breakup. When it seems like “all of your enemies started out friends” (Taylor Swift; “The Archer”), don’t spend too much energy on them. Remain focused on where you’re going, and prove that you’re above the drama.
Taylor Swift; “Paper Rings”
Without all the exes, fights, and flaws we wouldn’t be standing here so tall.
The mark of true friendship is looking around and realizing that, despite everything you’ve been through, your friendship still holds up. No matter how many breakups and petty arguments you have, that person is there for you through the worst of it. Those are the people you want to be left standing next to you.
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