It's an Inside Job Today

"How we choose to feel is how we are, and personally, I feel fucking awesome."

These powerful words were spoken by Steve Gleason, a former NFL safety who has been courageously battling Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). He shared this sentiment while introducing the song “Inside Job” during a memorable 2016 Pearl Jam concert at Chicago’s iconic Wrigley Field.

The song, penned by Pearl Jam’s talented guitarist Mike McCready, delves into his personal struggles with drug addiction and Crohn’s Disease, and his strategy for not only surviving, but thriving. McCready views these challenges as “inside jobs” — internal battles that he needed to confront and overcome through self-reflection, focus, and deliberate choices.

The lyrics of “Inside Job” resonate deeply with many of the themes we explore in our QB Connections Red Zone, such as Accountability, Resilience, Perseverance, Conviction, Focus, and Serenity, among others. Although it may not be as widely recognized as some of Pearl Jam’s earlier anthems, “Inside Job” is regarded by dedicated fans as one of the band’s most profound and inspirational songs.

Music, as we know, has a remarkable ability to influence our mindset and shape our subsequent actions. If you find yourself in need of inspiration, facing a daunting challenge, or seeking to tap into your “essential skills and strengths,” this song can serve as a powerful catalyst to help you embark on your own “Inside Job.”

The full lyrics of the song are a testament to the journey of self-discovery and empowerment. They begin with the acknowledgment of the complex emotions that lie “underneath this smile”: hopes, anger, pride, and shame. The song speaks to the importance of making a pact with oneself “not to shut doors on the past,” allowing for a sense of freedom and faith in the present moment. It emphasizes the idea that how we “choose to feel” directly influences who we are, reinforcing the notion that our internal state is a matter of personal choice.

The lyrics continue to explore the struggle of overcoming insecurity and the pursuit of hope, guiding the listener towards a path of enlightenment and a greater understanding of human potential. The refrain, “How I choose to feel is how I am,” serves as a powerful reminder of the control we have over our own emotions and the impact they have on our lives, and is the lyric principally emphasized by Gleason.

As the song progresses, it speaks to the resilience required to hold onto the light during dark times, the determination to rise and mend a “broken soul,” and the courage to embrace the cleansing power of rain. It is a call to action, urging us to “run into the rain” and “shine a human light again,” reminding us that life’s true essence comes from within our hearts and desires.

In conclusion, “Inside Job” is more than just a song; it is an anthem of personal empowerment and transformation. It encourages us to look inward, confront our challenges, and emerge stronger and more resilient. Whether you are a long-time fan of Pearl Jam or new to their music, this song offers a timeless message of hope and strength that can inspire us all.

Thanks!