“Break things down in to small manageable chunks and deal with things one by one.”
Inspired by acts including Kehlani, Tove Lo and Signid, Emily Burns is a pop prodigy who grew up in Scotland. Now living in London, we chatted to Emily about mindfulness, the World Cup and making lists.
What are you listening to, reading and watching at the moment?
At the moment I’m absolutely loving the new Jorja Smith album, it’s gorgeous. I’ve loved all of her singles so far and her album hasn’t disappointed at all. Book wise – I’m reading a book called “The Power of Now” by Eckhart Tolle which is really eye opening and amazing. I bought it because I was in a session and started telling the guys that I was feeling quite stressed – they recommended this book to me. Now, I’d recommend it to anyone else feeling the same. In terms of what I’m watching, it’s hard to concentrate on much else whilst the World Cup is on!
What has been your biggest life challenge so far and what did you do to overcome it?
I think a big step for me was moving to London, away from all of my friends and family and deciding to delve into the music industry. I’ve been very fortunate to be surrounded by amazing people every step of the way, they’ve made it feel easy.
What would constitute a ‘perfect’ day for you?
I feel really lucky that I get to wake up every day and make music for a living. So for me, every day is a blessing. However, a PERFECT day would constitute of writing the perfect pop song and spending it with amazing people. If the sun is out, that’s an added bonus.
For what in your life do you feel most grateful?
I feel so incredibly grateful for my family and friends who have backed me and believed in me at times when I didn’t even really believe in myself. My Mum, especially, has supported me beyond comprehension – I’m very grateful for her.
Complete this sentence: “Ace mental health for me means…”
Everything! It’s so important to feel good about yourself inside and out. If ever I’m not feeling 100%, I’ll always talk to someone about it – I find that to be really helpful!
What do you eat to stay healthy?
I eat a vegan diet, so I naturally eat quite healthily. I eat SO many vegetables, it’s a bit weird. I also try and drink a LOT of water. Staying hydrated keeps me feeling energised and happy throughout the day. Balance is key though, if I want to eat oreos for dinner one night, I will.
Do you have a daily routine of exercise or do you make it up as you go along?
I’m very much a make it up as I go along kind of girl. I don’t have a strict exercise plan but I think I do enough. Plus, I live up lots of flights of stairs… it’s enforced exercise but, it still counts right?
Here at The Mind Map we remember playing football and ‘tag’ – running around the playground everyday and loving it – can you share a similar memory?
Snap, I also LOVED football in my school days. As soon as the bell rang for lunch time, I’d be the first one out on the field ready for a classic “jumpers-for-goalposts” game! We also used to play a game called 40-40 in my village where I grew up. It’s pretty much glorified hide and seek and it was so much fun.
What three songs lift your spirits?
“We Can’t Stop” – Miley Cyrus – It might be cliche but this song really does just make me want to dance. And I am not a dancer, so that’s saying something.
“The Lazy Song” – Bruno Mars – On my last day of high school, some friends and I did a performance of this in front of the whole year and I’ll never forget it! Very happy memories!
“Put Your Records On” – Corinne Bailey Rae – This song takes me right back to my childhood every time it comes on!
What is your favourite self-help book, or motivational quote?
I really love the quote – “Everything will be okay in the end. If it’s not okay, it’s not the end.” Things will always get better.
What advice do you offer to friends when they are feeling overwhelmed?
When someone’s feeling like things are all a bit too much, my advice is always to break things down in to small manageable chunks and deal with things one by one. And make lists! I love a list! When you can actually physically tick/cross things off, it’s a really good feeling.