Stop and Stare
OneRepublic Lyrics

This town is colder now, I think it's sick of us
The town they're in no longer feels welcoming and it's time for them to leave.

It's time to make our move, I'm shakin' off the rust
It's time for them to move on from this town and they're excited to do so.

I've got my heart set on anywhere but here
They are determined to leave this place and go anywhere else.

I'm staring down myself, counting up the years
They are self-reflecting, realizing that time is passing and they need to take action now to achieve their dreams.

Steady hands just take the wheel
They are focused and ready to take control of their life.

And every glance is killing me
Every time they look back at this town, they feel sad and regretful.

Time to make one last appeal
This is their last chance to leave and pursue their dreams.

For the life I live
They want to live a life that fulfills them and brings them happiness.

Stop and stare
A reminder to pause and take in the moment, instead of rushing through life.

I think I'm moving, but I go nowhere
They feel like they're making progress, but they're not actually getting anywhere.

Yeah, I know that everyone gets scared
Fear is a common feeling for everyone, especially when taking a big step forward.

But I'll become what I can't be, oh
They want to be the best version of themselves and are determined to work hard to make it happen.

You start to wonder why you're here not there
They are questioning their current situation and why they aren't where they want to be.

And you'd give anything to get what's fair
They are willing to work hard for what they want and feel like they deserve it.

But fair ain't what you really need
Fairness isn't the most important thing, pursuing what makes you happy and fulfilled is.

Oh, can you see what I see?
An invitation to share their perspective and see things in a new light.

They're tryin' to come back, all my senses push
They are trying to move forward, but something within them is causing them to hesitate.

Untie the weight bags, I never thought I could
They are ready to let go of the things holding them back and step out of their comfort zone.

Steady feet, don't fail me now
They are determined to keep moving forward and not let fear take over.

I'ma run 'til you can't walk
They want to be so successful and achieve so much that it sets them apart from others.

Something pulls my focus out
There are distractions that are causing them to lose sight of their goals.

And I'm standing down
They are feeling defeated and unsure of what to do next.

I've become what I can't be
They have surpassed their own expectations and achieved great things.

Oh, you don't need
Reiterating that fairness isn't the most important thing, chasing happiness and fulfillment is.

Oh, do you see what I see?
An invitation to share their vision and perspective with others.