by Tara Pringle Jefferson
Say what you want about Beyonce, but the woman is a dynamo. While her acting chops might be a little suspect and folks debate her vocal talent, she’s made a few savvy relationship moves that young ladies today would do good to take note on. (Excuse me if this post is a bit dramatic ““ I’m probably B’s biggest fan.)
1. She had her own before the ring. Jay-Z is a mega-millionaire, regularly making top 100 lists for fortune and fame, often considered one of the top 5 MCs of all time. What is she bringing to the table? Oh, just 75 million records sold, seven Grammys, a slew of other awards and nominations and millions in endorsement deals. She brings her own level of success to the table. Lesson: Relationships tend to be easier when you’re on the same level, whether financially, intellectually, spiritually, or otherwise.
2. There was no rush. After hooking up some time in 2002, they waited six years before they walked down the aisle. Had the chance to see each other for who they really were, once the award shows and booth sessions were over for the day. Lesson: Take some time before committing. Not to say you have to wait six years before taking that next step, but knowing each other inside and out is key.
3. She kept “˜em guessing. Heck, we’re still not fully sure Jay-Z and Beyonce even got married. Anyone actually seen the marriage certificate? Are they really married? Keeping us guessing is their way of keeping us out of their business and keeping their faces off the cover of the tabloids. Lesson: Keep the most personal details to yourself. No one needs to know about all your disagreements. The only two people who need to know everything are the two people in the relationship.
4. She takes time to enjoy what they’ve built together. Every time you do get a glimpse of Jay-Z and Beyonce together, they’re chilling. Vacationing on a yacht. Shopping. Enjoying the fruits of their labor. Do they seem stressed? Nope. Lesson: Even if you’re not balling out of control like this power couple, make sure you take the time to sit back and smell the roses. You work hard every day to pay the bills and keep a roof over your head ““ make sure you actually enjoy what you work so hard to maintain.
Tara Pringle Jefferson is a freelance writer living in Ohio with her husband and two kids. Visit her blog, theyoungmommylife.com to read her musings on life, love and motherhood.