5 Leadership Lessons for Entrepreneurs from Game of Thrones

Game of Thrones ruled discussions online and in-person during its eight year run. People have fought over spoilers, who identify with in their cast of characters, and who should reign over the Seven Kingdoms.

Game of Thrones ended last May 19, and as action-packed and gripping as the series was, there were also valuable nuggets of wisdom in leadership and power. As budding business leaders and direct marketers, these insights could help you get the results you want without losing your head, like Ned).

(Warning: No major spoilers, but if you’re sensitive to hints, check back after you’ve caught up!)

Daenerys Targaryen – “Focus and keep your eye on the prize.”

No matter how one feels about Daenerys’ development in the later seasons, she had come a long way from being the meek sister of the Beggar King. Even before she became Khaleesi, Daenerys was very certain about what she wanted and went out to get it. Just make sure to stay balanced and avoid going mad with ambition.

In business, throughout your journey to success, there will be numerous challenges. Those challenges can either make you grow or destroy you. When the going gets though, always remember why you are doing what you do, what you are fighting for, and always choose to do the right thing.

Cersei Lannister – “Own your power.”

Cersei is a command presence, thanks to Lena Headey’s powerful performance. She wasn’t afraid to make enemies in the interest of self-preservation, but everyone who watched her knew that she wasn’t to be messed with. Don’t be afraid to let the world know you’re hungry for success, and you will get the help and network you need. Be mindful though, Cersei was all about achieving her goals at all cost.

In business, especially direct selling, this kind of mindset may entice you to adopt some “shortcuts” to sign someone up, or to close sales. Sales at all cost. However, think about the consequences. Shortcuts won’t give you a long term success. They could ruin your reputation as a person, and cost you everything from family, friends, or even your freedom.

What’s the right way of doing QNET business though? Find out here.

Jon Snow – “When in doubt, just do.”

If there’s one thing Jon knew, it’s that work needs to be done. Whether he was the “bastard child” or manning The Wall, he found a way to adapt and be useful even if he was sorely hated.

These are traits that can apply to any job we have, especially in direct selling. Whatever criticism is given about you, or no matter where you are, just do the right thing, focus on your goals, and keep going.

Arya and Sansa Stark – “Choose your battles.”

The Stark sisters had to grow up fast. As they were thrusted into a bloody war for the iron throne, they also had to learn on the fly. Sansa grew from being naive and overly trusting to keeping grace under pressure. Arya also did what she could to survive, especially when there was a bounty on her life. A poignant lesson from both of them as well:  in a time of war, choose your battles wisely. They were like oil and water and first, but soon found each other again as valuable heartfelt allies and sister.

In business and direct selling, we often face rejections. Some rejections can be turned around, but learn how to identify which ones we should say “Thank you, next!” to.

Tyrion Lannister – “Work hard, play hard.”

Tyrion didn’t need brute strength or towering height to win his battles. More than using people’s misconceptions and judgement of him as his strength, he also found value in leisure.  One can say that he strikes excellent work and life balance, but it has also helped him stay alive and essential in the series. There is a time to work, a time for war, a time for play. And when you least expect it, play could save you from the worst to happen.

No matter how busy you get when running your business, remember to set aside some time to get yourself refreshed.

What other leadership lessons have you learned from A Game of Thrones? Share it with us in a comment below.