Beyoncé is more than a global pop sensation. Her brand of empowering and soulful pop has captured and enthralled a generation of women.
She’s a savvy entrepreneur who has undoubtedly learned a thing or two about running a business. For the receptive listener, her award-winning songs are packed with entrepreneurial inspiration and offer takeaway lessons worthy of any entrepreneur’s ear.
The tone of her brand message is clear – Beyoncé is a strong, capable leader that owns it and calls on you to rise up to the challenge.
Here are my favorite business lessons I’ve drawn from her songs that may inspire you, too:
Listen, Dreamgirls (2006)
It’s time to step into your personal power. Whether your entrepreneurial journey has just begun or firmly established, you can recognize the rousing call to action from deep within that explodes through “Listen” a 2006 release from the motion picture Dreamgirls. Beyoncé sings “Oh, the time has come for my dreams to be heard. They will not be pushed aside and turned…” and encourages you to step out and pursue dreams on your own terms.
Every entrepreneur remembers a moment when they’ve said, “Enough is enough!” and committed to making their dream work, no matter the challenges ahead. Although it feels scary, it’s important to accept that you may not have all of the answers but you do have everything inside of you to succeed.
Irreplaceable , B’Day Deluxe Edition (2007)
Irreplaceable was the 25th most successful song of the 2000s, and won several awards including a nomination for Record of the Year at the 50th Grammy Awards.
“You must not know ’bout me.” The lesson here is all about confidence and self-worth. In life or in business Beyoncé calls on you to set healthy boundaries. This ensures you’re being true to yourself at all times. Nobody has the right to disrespect you or to treat you unfairly. Know your value and own your worth.
Upgrade U , B’Day Deluxe Edition (2007)
You’ve got an important business meeting, presentation or client call coming up and you start to doubt your capabilities. At this very moment, turn on this track and bring it, baby! In this song, Beyoncé reminds you of the unique qualities and characteristics that you possess.
“Partner, let me upgrade you
Flip a new page
Introduce you to some new things, and upgrade you”
She reminds us of the power of association. Jim Rohn has said, “You become like the five people you spend the most time with. Choose carefully.” Surround yourself with the best and they’ll help you take your life and business to a new level. Never forget how you upgrade people’s lives and they won’t either.
Run the World (Girls), 4 (2011)
When you have a billion things to do and overwhelm creeps in, turn up the volume on this track. The lyrics celebrate the power of women: “My persuasion can build a nation, Endless power…” as she continually reminds listeners: “Who run the world?
Girls.”
When you need to become a productivity master, turn up the volume and focus on the essentials. Prioritize your to-do list and delegate! Rule your world. As Harvard Business Review explains, “One of the most difficult transitions for leaders to make is the shift from doing to leading.” This song inspires leaders to make the transition and tackle the world.
Halo , I Am, Sasha Fierce (2008)
Halo is a pop power ballad. The lyrics describe an intense and powerful love shared by a couple giving us a behind-the-scenes look at her life stripped of celebrity trappings.
There’s a time to be fierce and there’s a time to express the more gentle qualities of our entrepreneurial prowess. In Halo, Beyonce bathes in gratitude and calls on you to show an appreciation for the people in your life that support and take care of your needs.
If you’re guilty of half-listening to your partner or child, replacing morning cuddles with Instagram scrolling, eating dinner with your iPhone in hand, or any other entrepreneurial work-life priorities faux pas; take a step back and prioritize those who support you.
Sarah Jane Russell is Chief Copywriter, marketer and boss lady at The Content Marketing Club – your go-to place for affordable, purpose-driven content planning and content creation to market your small business online.
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