The Moxie of Taylor Swift (and why it matters for leaders)

Taylor Swift is everywhere right now—you can hardly open your phone, watch the news, or scroll Spotify without seeing The Life of a Showgirl. She’s polarizing to some, adored by others. (For the record, I’ve adored her since 1989 came out.)

But this isn’t really about Taylor herself—it’s about moxie.

I love this word. It’s like bravery’s cheeky cousin. It’s confidence with a wink—showing up fully, using your voice, and not taking yourself too seriously.

I went to the opening weekend of her album-release film, and what struck me most wasn’t her fame or the spectacle. It was her unbridled enthusiasm—the joy she radiates when talking about her work, the way she celebrates collaboration, and her grounded self-assurance in the face of criticism.

That’s moxie.

It’s the willingness to show up, to lead with heart, and to keep creating even when you know not everyone will understand or approve.

As leaders, creators, and humans navigating messy, meaningful work, maybe that’s the energy we need more of right now.

How might you show up with a little more moxie this week?

P.S. One of the ways to show up with more moxie at work is to align with your Working Genius. Have you taken the assessment yet? Click here to learn more!