Singer-songwriter Mike Posner is opening up about his journey of self-discovery and transformation in a candid conversation with PEOPLE. Known for his chart-topping hits like “I Took a Pill in Ibiza” and “Cooler Than Me,” Posner is now sharing insights from his latest single, “Beautiful Day,” which he describes as a genuine reflection of his current life.
“Every album, I’ve completely switched my entire being based on what felt true to me and what inspired me both musically and spiritually,” Posner said. “It’s been totally worth it. I’m proud to have these really honest snapshots of my life. They serve as markers of growth.”
In a notable turn of events in 2019, Posner embarked on an ambitious journey of walking across the United States. This trek took a harrowing turn when he was bitten by a rattlesnake in Colorado, an experience that brought him close to death. He later climbed Mount Everest in 2021, where he again faced peril, describing a “scary moment” during the climb.
“I like goals that I know are going to change who I am,” he explained. “The trophy isn’t the accomplishment. It’s actually the transformation along the way. Both those challenges were far outside my comfort zone when I set them, and that’s what makes them exciting.”
While those grand goals have been pivotal in his journey, Posner emphasizes the importance of quieter, more personal milestones as well. A significant aspect of his evolution has involved distancing himself from weed and alcohol. He shared that he stopped smoking marijuana about 13 years ago and quit drinking shortly thereafter.
“Those substances were distractions that numbed me to what I was feeling,” he reflected. “I would use women and sex to distract myself from my emotions. I found myself engaging with porn and other outlets instead of facing what was truly happening inside me.”
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In a recent social media post, Posner disclosed his decision to practice celibacy, explaining that abstaining from sexual activity has been a crucial part of his growth. After experiencing grief from a recent breakup, he felt compelled to confront his pain head-on rather than seek temporary relief.
“I was celibate last year for four or five months after ending my last relationship,” he shared. “I felt a lot of grief, and when I experience pain, I believe there’s a lesson to be learned. In the past, my body would want to escape that pain, leading me to seek out distractions. This time, I decided to face it directly.”
Posner’s commitment to self-improvement has positively impacted his current relationship, which he affectionately refers to as “my love.” He noted, “I’ve matured a lot, and I’ve become a better man. As my life has progressed, I’ve leveled up.”
His new single, “Beautiful Day,” serves as the culmination of his introspective journey. Posner describes it as the “soundtrack” to his healing process. “It’s the song I use and still use because, after all this meditation and these incredible experiences, my old habits are still waiting for me every morning,” he said. “Lethargy, self-pity, and depression are right there, asking if I want to hang out. Every day, I tell them, ‘I love you guys, but not today.’ I have to make that decision daily.”
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Posner considers “Beautiful Day” to be a reminder of gratitude, acknowledging that while life has its challenges, it also offers moments of joy. “This is a song I put on in the morning to invoke gratitude and point to a rainbow without claiming that the sun always shines,” he explained. “It makes life feel fun because it truly is.”
As he continues to evolve both personally and artistically, Mike Posner remains committed to sharing his journey with the world. Through his music and candid reflections, he hopes to inspire others to confront their own struggles and embrace the process of transformation. With “Beautiful Day,” Posner invites listeners to join him in celebrating life, one decision at a time.
