Beyoncé Gets Candid About Business Inequities Between Genders

Beyoncé is pulling back the curtain on her journey through business spaces where some might have doubted her success.

Queen Bey, who is not only a singer but also a businesswoman who owns various product lines, is opening up about her experiences and challenges as a Black woman thriving in industries where she was underestimated.

Beyoncé's story is proving once again why she's a force to be reckoned with, both on and off the stage.

Beyoncé, who has been an outspoken advocate for racial justice, women’s rights, and LGBTQ+ rights, using her platform to raise awareness and drive change, sat down with GQ where she discussed her achievements and what her journey was like getting to where she is today.

"There’s a huge contrast between the business journeys of men and women," the singer said. "Men often have the luxury of being perceived as the strategists, the brains behind their ventures. They’re given the space to focus on the product, the team, the business plan."

"Women, on the other hand, especially those in the limelight, are frequently pigeonholed into being the face of the brand or the marketing tool," Beyoncé continued. "It’s important to me to continue to take the same approach I have taken with my music and apply my learnings to my businesses."

After finding her own success, the "Single Ladies" singer says she wants to change the "old narrative."

"I’m here to focus on the quality," she told GQ. "We took our time, and we did our research, and we have earned respect for our brand. I try to choose integrity over shortcuts. I’ve learned that true success isn’t about leaning on a name; it’s about crafting something genuine, something that can hold its own."

"It’s not about being perfect. It’s about being revolutionary," she added.

Beyoncé also shared the new insights she’s gained about herself as she has approached the entrepreneurial world with increased confidence and determination.

"I’m drawn to authenticity," she admitted. "I don’t waste my time on something unless I’m deeply passionate about it. If I don’t wake up thinking about it and I’m not going to sleep dreaming about it, it’s not for me."

The singer, who is involved in numerous charitable causes, is one of the most awarded artists in Grammy history and has received various awards for her acting performances and contributions to film music. She says that her perception of success is different than most.

"When I commit, I’m 100 percent in," she said. "I prefer to focus quietly, uninterrupted by things that are a distraction to the authenticity. I believe everything can always be better. My job is to give until it is the best it can possibly be."

Alongside her multiple Grammy wins, Beyoncé co-founded the fashion line House of Deréon with her mother and also launched successful collections with Ivy Park in partnership with Adidas.

Beyoncé has always been someone to not only challenge herself but challenge the people around her to "think differently" because she thinks that "a big part of success is your outlook on life."

"Every disappointment is an opportunity for growth. An opportunity to pivot," the "TEXAS HOLD EM" singer said. "I trust God, even when it feels like I can barely see the light at the end of the tunnel. I know the earth is going to open up for me."

"I’m inspired by things that fill a void, solve a problem, or don’t already exist," the singer continued. "Otherwise, I’m not drawn to the opportunity."

Over the years, the 43-year-old, who is married to Jay-Z, has launched a series of successful fragrances, including Heat (2009), Pulse (2011), and Rising (2015).

She also established the BeyGOOD foundation, dedicated to addressing issues such as disaster relief, education, and global health.

But that's not all... Beyoncé has been a prominent advocate for social justice, championing causes like racial equality, women's rights, and LGBTQ+ rights.

"I am proud of what I have been able to do, but I also recognize the sacrifices—mine and my family’s," Beyoncé told GQ. "But I’ve paid my dues a hundred times over. I have worked harder than anyone I know. And now I work smarter."