Leadership Lessons from Taylor Swift

Yes, really!

As the mom of a Taylor Swift fan, I've spent nearly two decades listening to her music evolve. From catchy teen anthems to powerful storytelling layered with perspective, vulnerability, and strength.

Over time, I've come to realize: if you listen closely, many of her lyrics hold unexpected wisdom for leadership. I'm not talking about one-liners or internet quotes. I'm talking about real insights. The kind that can nudge you to reflect, recalibrate, or stand a little taller.

Here are just a few lines that have stayed with me, and the leadership lessons they offer.

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"So casually cruel in the name of being honest..."

All Too Well

This one cuts deep. Leadership requires clarity, and values provide the filter for both what we say and how we say it. Honesty without compassion is cruelty. And when you lead a team, "casually cruel" isn't just unkind. It's destructive. Values help us stay grounded in the kind of honesty that builds trust, not fear.

"I brought a knife to a gunfight..."

Call It What You Want

This lyric reminds me of the time I've walked into conversations unprepared. When you're a leader, especially a woman in a male-dominated space, it's easy to feel outmatched or ambushed. I've been learning (thanks to voices like Jefferson Fisher, author of The Next Conversation) that you don't have to meet every fire with fire. Sometimes, the real strength is in refusing to fight at all. Put the knife down, Christi.

"Bridges burn, I never learn...at least I did one thing right."

Call It What You Want

We all make mistakes. It's part of the job - and it's part of being human. But as a young professional, one lesson hit me early: the furniture industry is small. And burning bridges, even unintentionally, leaves lasting damage. Growth isn't about avoiding mistakes. It's about learning from them and choosing better next time.

"Cut 'em from the team. Ditch the clowns, get the crown."

The Alchemy

Brutal? Maybe. But necessary. Mark Cuban once said the key to success is assuming you'll win and removing the obstacles in your way. That includes people who undermine, distract, or deplete your team. Leaders who want to win aren't cruel. They're clear,

"A greater woman stays cool...but I howl like a wolf at the moon."

The Prophecy

So many women I know have been taught to "stay cool." To contain their hunger. To be composed, not competitive. Taylor calls that our for what it is: a muzzle. There is power in letting yourself want more, and in owning your ambition without apology.

"Love's never lost when perspective is earned."

Peter

This might be one of my favorites. Perspective gives us empathy, grace, and the ability to respond rather than react. Whether you're leading a team or navigating personal challenges, earned perspective is the bridge between confidence and compassion.

"You never gave a warning sign...I gave so many signs."

Exile

This one hits home. How often have we ignored red flags - in hiring, client relationships, or vendor partnerships - simply because we wanted something to work? That instinct to override your gut is costly. Leadership means learning to pay attention the first time, not just in hindsight.

"I'm doing good, I'm on some new shit. Been saying yes instead of no."

The 1

There's something quietly radical about trying something new. Saying yes to discomfort. To change. To growth. It's not always loud, but it's powerful.

And of course, The Man.

Satirical. Smart. Sharp.

Lyrics like:

"They'd say I hustled, put in the work. They wouldn't shake their heads and question how much of this I deserve."

This entire song holds a mirror to the unspoken double standard many women leaders face. We downplay our accomplishments to avoid judgment. We get praised for humility but questioned for ambition. It's exhausting. And it's time to rewrite that narrative, for ourselves and for the women watching us.

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This post isn't about idolizing Taylor Swift. It's about finding wisdom where you least expect it, even on a stage filled with glitter and guitars.

The truth is, leadership lessons are everywhere. They're in songs, in stories, in overheard conversations, and sometimes, in the backseat of your car while your daughter sings along.

You just have to be willing to listen.

See the Good!