If you’re like me, you’re counting down to Taylor Swift’s 12th album, The life of a showgirl. I wasn’t sure what to expect from this — Taylor seems to be in a new era of her life, grounded in love, and maybe finally ready to slow down a little. I was not disappointed. Beneath the sequins and stage lights, this album is full of heart, contemplation, and wisdom — especially when it comes to money. Of songs like y$h li$t To remind us that money and material desires are not everything, for example The life of a showgirl Exploring the cost of pursuing success, there is a lot we can learn from Taylor about ambition, value, and living on our own terms.

1. Know what really matters to you

in y$h li$tTaylor lists everything fame can buy—attractive symbols of success.

“That yachting life, under the helicopter blades/Those bright lights and shadows of Palinche.”

Then she turns it on her head:

“I just want you / to have two kids / to make the whole building look like you.”

It’s a powerful moment that reminds us that money can only take you so far. A true dream is often a feeling of love, peace, or freedom, not a price.

As you build income streams or seek financial independence, keep checking in with yourself. What do you actually want life to look like? Because if you don’t define it, the money will do it for you, and it may not suit what your heart desires.

2. Build multiple sources of income

Taylor doesn’t rely on just one format or platform. Each release comes with vinyl variants, deluxe editions, special bundles, and even events that expand their reach beyond live streaming. This is intentional. Each product targets a different audience and adds stability to its income.

This is exactly what anyone who makes money outside of a traditional job should aim for, which is a combination of income streams. This may combine affiliate marketing, publications, and YouTube channelOr freelancing alongside digital products. When one stream slows down, another can pick up. This is how long-term financial freedom begins.

3. Create experiences, not just products

release The life of a showgirl It was a masterclass in turning a product into an experience. From the theatrical release party to the pop-up installations and Easter eggs for fans, Taylor made the album feel like an event.

When you’re building your business, think about how you can achieve what you offer feel Very special. Maybe it’s behind-the-scenes updates, early access, or a strong personal story. People don’t just buy the product, they buy the way they feel. This emotional connection is what keeps them coming back.

4. Ownership is everything

Taylor’s journey with her masters became legendary, and showgirl He continues this legacy. She makes it clear that having control over her creative work and its future value is more important than making a short-term deal.

This same lesson applies to any of us who create online – from digital downloads to blog posts. Whenever you can, retain ownership of your business. Host your website. Build your email list. Don’t rely on platforms that can change overnight. When you own your assets, you own your future income.

5. Scarcity can be powerful – when it’s real

Swift is adept at using limited editions to drive excitement and sales. But she also warns against losing yourself in that chase. in The life of a showgirlAnd she sings:

“Wait, the more you play, the more you pay / You don’t want to know the life of a showgirl, baby.”

It’s a warning against overextending yourself, whether it’s financially, emotionally, or physically — just to stay in the spotlight.

For us, this is a reminder that while marketing tactics like scarcity or urgency can help sell, they should never push us beyond what is sustainable. Build excitement, yes, but don’t burn yourself out in the process.

6. Data is your friend, not your boss

You know the Taylor team tracks it all: advance saves, engagement, merch sales, and tour ticket trends. But she still releases what she truly feels, even when it’s risky.

As creatives and entrepreneurs, we need the same balance. Analytics are important, use them to guide your strategy, identify trends, and measure what is working. But don’t let the numbers overwhelm your intuition. Sometimes the biggest gains come from trusting your intuition.

7. Rejuvenation is part of longevity

Taylor never stands still. Each album represents a new chapter, and The life of a showgirl She sounds like a woman redefining success on her own terms.

If you’re making money without a job, this is the mindset you should adopt. The Internet is changing rapidly. What worked last year may fail this year. Keep learning, growing and trying new things. Renewal is not failure, but growth.

8. Protect your peace

One of the quietest but most powerful messages in The life of a showgirl It is that the spotlight can take more than it gives. Fame, pressure and the cost of constant performance weigh heavily.

The same goes for freelancing or side hustling, success can easily extend to every hour of your day. Build boundaries, take breaks, and protect your peace. The goal is not to crowd infinitely, but to create freedom.

Taylor Swift The life of a showgirl It may be wrapped in magic, but underneath, it’s all about value—what’s worth chasing, what’s worth keeping, and what we can let go of. from y$h li$tA gentle reminder that money isn’t everything, for the self-awareness that runs through it showgirl In itself, Taylor’s latest era proves that financial freedom is about balance: making money, owning your value, and continuing to live a life that looks like you.