6 Lessons Learned From the Life of Chadwick Boseman

In life and his untimely death, Chadwick Boseman has left us in both shock & awe. His career made him a star and his personal life taught us many lessons that we can use to better ourselves.

In reading more about his life, I wanted to share with you a few lessons I learned from the life of Chadwick Boseman.

1. LIVE YOUR LIFE, NO MATTER THE CIRCUMSTANCE

All of us have something to overcome. All of us have situations and circumstances that can stop us from living and loving the life we have been blessed with. Chadwick Boseman’s life reminds me to live and enjoy my life, regardless of what is going on around me, be it good or bad. We can not always change our circumstances, but we change change how we respond and live through them.

2. GIVE THE GRACE YOU NEED TO RECEIVE

We must give grace to those we encounter. We never really know what people are going through behind closed doors. I say this all the time but and I hope that with the details of Chadwick Boseman’s illness coming to light, more people will take heed. I for one need grace, how selfish of me to need it yet not give it? Whether the people we come into contact with show signs of distress or not, give grace.

3. SHOW UP AND GIVE IT YOUR ALL

We can all take a look at the body of work Chadwick Boseman left behind and agree that he gave his roles all of him. Every single one. No matter what was going on, he still found a way to work in excellence and strength. We can all take heed to this lesson in our personal lives & businesses. Work in excellence, each and every time. Be diligent and work hard to accomplish the goals set out in front of you.

4. SPEAK TRUTH TO EVIL

Chadwick Boseman was actually fired from All My Children, his first major role, because he spoke up about the racial stereotypes his character was to display and refused to play into the stereotypes. The character was a young, black gang member who was adopted by a white family on the show. He was fired 1 week after voicing his concerns on the character. Chadwick went on to have bigger and arguably better opportunities but his bravery to speak truth to evil and attempt to make positive change, gives us the courage to do the same.

5. BE SELECTIVE & USE YOUR GIFTS TO UPLIFT YOUR COMMUNITY

All money isn’t good money. You don’t have to accept every client or project that comes your way. We hear this a lot as business owners. We should only be taking on projects that speak to us and allow us to touch and help our communities. In the story above, Chadwick didn’t let the fear of losing his paycheck or ending his career before it really began cause him to accept a role he didn’t agree with. Chadwick Boseman’s body of work showcases roles that shed positive light on influential African American’s and helped bring joy and representation to the African American community. What an amazing legacy to leave behind.

6. KEEP PEOPLE OUT OF YOUR BUSINESS

For 4 years, Chadwick battled stage 3 colon cancer. His battle was never leaked to the press. His colleges and many directors never knew of his illness and it was only in his death that the world learned of his struggles. As business owners, it’s very important that we keep our business to ourselves or with tried and true confidants that will respect our wishes for privacy. Every business move we make doesn’t need to be shared until the appropriate time. Sharing too soon, at all or to the wrong people could prove to be a detriment to the success we are chasing.

Chadwick Boseman touched many lives, including mine. I pray his family finds peace and comfort during this time and that we all become better as a result of the lessons Chadwick taught us.