Tyler Perry’s recent unveiling of his historical film studio gives pause to all aspiring black dreamers. Perry has always been an inspiring individual to me, but now at the pinnacle of his career, I see so much more. As I think over his career, watching him speak about his humble beginnings and all the adversity he faced; I can’t help but be motivated as an entrepreneur. With that in mind, I’ve decided to share the ways in which TP has become such a source of inspiration for me:
1) He’s persevered through every obstacle.
Perry has shared his story of homelessness, rejection, and being ignored by Hollywood since he dared to chase his dreams in 1992. When I reflect on the things he’s had to face, it helps keep me focused on my “why” when I, too feel like I can’t keep my head above water. Many entrepreneurs can find solace in this thought. 27 years later, we see where pushing forward has taken him.
2) Take ownership of your gift.
Tyler has made his mark by being in full ownership of his ideas. His stage plays, television shows, and film studio are all owned by him. It’s great to contribute your skills and gifts to other entities but be sure that you are capitalizing on your gifts in the long run. Find some way to OWN (pun intended) your efforts. Knowing your worth and adding tax.
3) Pay it forward.
During an on-stage interview at Essence Festival, Tyler spoke about how he openly shares what he’s learned with others who are in the industry or trying to navigate the industry. He continues to open doors and create pathways for others even within his film studio vision. Speaking with Gayle King, Perry states:
“I’ll tell you what I’m most excited about next is pulling this next phase off, is building a compound for trafficked women, girls, homeless women, LGBTQ youth who are put out and displaced… somewhere on these 330 acres, where they’re trained in the business and they become self-sufficient.”
4) There are no mistakes.
All of the seeming setbacks that Perry endured all led him to where he is today. He is thankful for the opportunities to grow and gain valuable insight under the school of hard knocks. Each of these “mistakes” propelled him towards his current destination. I choose to see this in my life as well, as it gives us a better perspective on the importance of all of life’s experiences. There is no “right” way.
Tyler Perry
My biggest success is getting over the things that have tried to destroy and take me out of this life. Those are my biggest successes. It has nothing to do with work.
5) Give the Ancestors something to shout about!
Tyler Perry’s new studio sits on an old Confederate Air Base. Can you imagine the comeuppance our ancestors feel in seeing their wildest dreams imagined with his purchase and unveiling? We, as a people, are proud of Perry. Perry’s accomplishment is even more awe-inspiring when we imagine the joy of our ancestors. On the studio lot stand soundstages, dedicated to 12 of our beloved trailblazers including Diahann Carroll, Cicely Tyson, and Sidney Poitier. I imagine all the adversity they had to face in the same industry as they attempted to make headway. I recollect on those who have come before and what they had to endure all so that Tyler would have the opportunity to try, to chase his dreams, to fail even, because they weren’t given that. As Oprah says, ‘we are our ancestor’s wildest dreams’.
