Tiffany Dufu writing about Tina Turner over the weekend—-

I’m obsessed with Tina Turner. To manage my workaholism, I set my phone alarm to play “We Don’t Need Another Hero” at 10pm every night to remind me to close my laptop. She’s also my go-to for any costume occasion. Since her passing, many people have exhausted themselves mourning. I’ve exhausted myself dancing to my favorite album, “Private Dancer.”

Her legacy can’t be articulated in one post but here are the three biggest lessons I’ve learned from her that I try to apply in my daily life:

1 You are the most powerful change agent in your own journey. Anna Mae Bullock’s aspiration in her high school yearbook reads, “Entertainer.” Decades later when no music label or producer would give her a chance, the renamed Tina Turner declared that she would be the first Black female rock star. Later she was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame – twice. Her vision for her ambition was clear. Tina Turner taught us the force of intention.

2 Know the source of your value. When Tina Turner left her husband and manager after years of abuse, she gave up all monetary entitlements including alimony and music rights. The one thing she fought for was the name he had given her. She was confident that all she needed was the brand. She understood that she had the voice, the talent and the work ethic to make the money back and so much more. She taught us to be self-assured in our unique contribution.

3 You can choose your beginning. Tina Turner’s first number one hit, “What’s Love Got To Do With It,” was released when she was 44. In a music industry where youth is glorified, Tina Turner grew to superstardom as she was approaching 50. Let that sink in. She taught us that it’s never too late to execute on your dreams. You can always push the start button. What are you waiting for?

Thank you, Ms. Turner, for teaching us how to navigate life with love, resiliency and the most unstoppable legs north of Nutbush.