It's an important question faced by anyone at a pivotal moment in their personal or professional life: What Would Bey Do?
Recently, the geniuses at the Harvard Business School asked themselves that question, using the landmark release of Bey's 2013 self-titled album as the focus of a new case study.
Naturally, BuzzFeed read this case study with great interest. Here are nine lessons we learned that could teach any young professional to "Run the World" like Beyoncé.
1. Set clear goals for yourself.
When it came to releasing her self-titled album in 2013, Beyoncé had three specific things she wanted to accomplish: She wanted fans to experience the album at the same time as critics, she wanted every song to have a video, and she didn't want the album to leak. Try doing the same by setting specific, measurable goals for yourself.
2. Surround yourself with talented people.
3. Embrace collaboration.
4. Do your homework.
How did Beyoncé prepare for that legendary Super Bowl halftime show? By watching every halftime show in history and taking notes. She set out to replicate what had worked in the past and avoid what hadn't. Whether you're performing for millions or presenting for a handful, preparation is important. Always do your research!
5. Always make the ask.
6. Find the work environment that works for you.
While Beyoncé has an office in New York, she prefers to do business on the go, talking to members of Team B on a walk or in their offices. Follow her lead! Even if you're chained to a desk, you can try making small changes to improve productivity. If you work best standing up, do that! If silence helps you focus, get some earplugs. Do what you can do make your workspace work for you.
7. Know your value.
8. Know that you can't please everyone.
When it came to releasing her self-titled album on iTunes, Beyoncé and her team knew that the plan might alienate some retailers. However, preventing leaks was more important to them. While Target and Amazon ultimately refused to carry the album, it never leaked. If you have goals, stand your ground! If pleasing everyone means you have to compromise your vision, don't.