What Collecting Vinyl Records Has Taught Me About Joy and Presence

I’ve been collecting vinyl records for years. What started as a hobby has become one of my greatest teachers in slowing down, finding joy in the little things, and staying present in a world that constantly pushes us to move faster.

In my work as an executive and life coach, I often help clients rediscover joy and reconnect with what matters most. Strangely enough, vinyl has become one of my personal reminders of how to do exactly that. Here’s what this passion has taught me about joy, presence, and even reinvention.

1. Slowing Down Creates Presence

Streaming music is instant, a click, a swipe, and you’re on to the next song. Vinyl is different. You take the record out of its sleeve, place it gently on the turntable, and lower the needle. There’s a ritual to it. That extra care slows me down and pulls me into the moment.

In life, presence often comes when we build rituals that force us to pause. Whether it’s a morning routine, a mindful walk, or listening to an album start to finish, slowing down is how we reconnect with ourselves.

2. Imperfection Has Its Own Beauty

Vinyl records aren’t perfect. There are pops, hisses, and crackles. But those imperfections are part of what makes the sound warm and authentic.

The same applies to life. Too often we strive for perfection, when in reality, it’s the imperfections that make us human and memorable. Embracing the cracks in our story allows us to live more joyfully and authentically.

3. Presence Comes From Deep Listening

When I listen to vinyl, I don’t skip tracks or shuffle. I listen to the album as the artist intended. This forces me to pay attention, not just to the music, but to the experience of listening.

Being present in life works the same way. When we stop multitasking and really listen, to ourselves, to others, to what life is teaching us, we gain clarity and connection that gets lost in the noise.

4. Joy Is Found in the Little Things

For me, joy comes not just from the music, but from the entire experience: flipping through record shops, discovering hidden gems, holding a beautifully designed album cover. These small, tactile details bring me happiness.

It’s a reminder that joy doesn’t always come from big achievements. Often, it’s in the everyday moments, a good conversation, a run in the fresh air, or listening to your favorite record, that we find our deepest fulfillment.

5. Reinvention Can Be Found in Old Stories

Every record has a history. Some are brand new pressings, others carry decades of play, each with its own story. Collecting vinyl has shown me that reinvention doesn’t always mean starting from scratch. Sometimes it means rediscovering and reframing what’s already there.

That’s the essence of reinvention in life and career too, taking the wisdom and experiences you already have, and shaping them into something new and meaningful.

From Records to Real Life

Collecting vinyl records has taught me to slow down, appreciate imperfection, listen deeply, and find joy in the little things. These lessons extend far beyond music, they shape how I live, lead, and coach others through reinvention.

In a world that often demands speed and perfection, vinyl reminds me to be present, embrace the journey, and savor the moments that matter.

👉 If you’re ready to rediscover joy and create a life that feels aligned, let’s start with a conversation. Book a Free Clarity Call and explore your next chapter.