We recently connected with Ruby Gao and have shared our conversation below.
Ruby, thank you so much for joining us. You are such a positive person and it’s something we really admire and so we wanted to start by asking you where you think your optimism comes from?
Ruby: Thank you for your kind words. My optimism stems from a mix of experiences. Imagine a kid from Chengdu, China, landing in LA with big dreams and a suitcase full of courage. Everything in LA was a remix of what I knew, a mix of excitement and a bit of “What have I gotten myself into?” That’s where optimism became crucial, influenced by my time in the music industry and now as a Montessori preschool teacher.
In the music world, where change was constant, staying positive wasn’t just a vibe, it was a survival tactic. Finding the bright side in challenges and seeing them as opportunities became second nature. Now, as a preschool teacher, my optimism has a different focus – tapping into the wild creativity of these little humans. Their enthusiasm and boundless imagination remind me daily that the world is full of possibilities.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
Ruby: Currently, I’m juggling two worlds – one as a Montessori preschool teacher and the other as an business student. It feels like conducting a unique orchestra where education, creativity, and business strategy are the instruments. I’m also bringing the joy of the Chinese language to the mix. Back in the day, I worked in the music business, adding a touch of Hollywood magic to films. What excites me now is blending these diverse elements into a narrative that’s uniquely mine. The adventure continues, and I’m ready for whatever comes next.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Ruby: Looking back, three things stand out – adaptability, creativity, and resilience. Adaptability is about not getting too attached to your plans. The music industry taught me that. Things change – genres, trends, even your favorite band’s lineup. Don’t get too hung up on how you thought things would be. Creativity is about not being boring. In the music biz, you gotta stand out. The same goes for teaching preschoolers – if you’re not bringing the fun, you’re losing the room. Resilience is about bouncing back. My advice? Get cozy with failure. It’s not the end; it’s the chorus before the next verse. Build resilience, and you’ll turn setbacks into comebacks like a pro.
What do you do when you feel overwhelmed? Any advice or strategies?
Ruby: When things get chaotic, the first step is to take a breath. Close your eyes, inhale deeply, exhale slowly. It’s like hitting the reset button on your brain. Break down overwhelming tasks into bite-sized pieces. Tackle one thing at a time. Reflect on your journey like you’re curating a museum exhibit. Each challenge is an exhibit, and adjustments are like moving pieces in a living gallery. And remember, self-care is not a luxury; it’s survival. Sometimes, it’s about enjoying your favorite comfort food – your version of a cozy blanket on a chaotic day.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: gaoruii
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rubygaola/
