Elon Musk’s ex-wife, Justine Musk, recently shared insights into the personal philosophy behind his success during a TEDx talk, emphasizing the importance of boundaries and focus, particularly his ability to say “no.” This provided a unique perspective on the entrepreneur behind Tesla and SpaceX.

Justine Musk, a Canadian fantasy author, is the mother of five of Elon Musk’s 𝘤𝘩𝘪𝘭𝘥ren. Born in 1972, she is known for novels like “BloodAngel” and “Uninvited,” which often explore themes of personal struggle and resilience. Justine Musk wrote an essay during their messy divorce proceedings in 2008. The essay has drawn renewed attention after the recent launch of Musk’s biography.

Justine (then Wilson) met Elon Musk at Queen’s University in Ontario. Their courtship involved ice cream and, later, Musk giving her his credit card to buy books. They married in 2000 and moved to Los Angeles. They tragically lost their first son, Nevada, to SIDS, and later had twins and triplets.

The couple divorced in 2008, the same year Musk became Tesla CEO. The loss of their son and the subsequent 𝐛𝐢𝐫𝐭𝐡s of their other 𝘤𝘩𝘪𝘭𝘥ren further strained their relationship. In the essay Jestine wrote, “This, and the vast economic imbalance between us, meant that in the months following our wedding, a certain dynamic began to take hold. Elon’s judgment overruled mine, and he was constantly remarking on the ways he found me lacking. ‘I am your wife,” I told him repeatedly, ‘not your employee.’

“‘If you were my employee,’ he said just as often, ‘I would fire you.'”

Following their divorce, Elon Musk stated he offered Justine a substantial settlement, which she rejected. He currently covers all expenses for their 𝘤𝘩𝘪𝘭𝘥ren and provides monthly support. She also retained the family home in Bel Air.