We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Justus King a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Justus, so good to have you with us today. We’ve got so much planned, so let’s jump right into it. We live in such a diverse world, and in many ways the world is getting better and more understanding but it’s far from perfect. There are so many times where folks find themselves in rooms or situations where they are the only ones that look like them – that might mean being the only woman of color in the room or the only person who grew up in a certain environment etc. Can you talk to us about how you’ve managed to thrive even in situations where you were the only one in the room?
Being the only Black male in spaces has taught me a tremendous amount. I embrace my unique perspective, stay resilient, build strong support systems, and always deliver top-notch work. I stay true to myself and use my voice to push for more diversity. My uniqueness is my strength!
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
I’m a dynamic entertainer and creative pro who kicked off my journey in 2018 by signing with my first modeling agency. My skills cover modeling, acting, singing, dancing, content creation, and art, offering clients a unique blend of talents.
What sets me apart is my seamless ability to switch between creative fields, ensuring a diverse and captivating experience. From modeling to becoming a multifaceted artist, I take pride in my journey and dedication to delivering original and engaging content.
For clients, followers, and fans, my brand stands for creativity, versatility, and excellence. Whether I’m modeling, acting, singing, dancing, creating content, or making art, I strive to leave a lasting impression with my unique and vibrant contributions to the entertainment world.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Looking back, three key qualities have been crucial in my journey as a creative:
1. Versatility: Being able to adapt and excel in various creative fields has been a game-changer. This flexibility not only keeps my work dynamic but also opens up more opportunities. **Advice**: Try new things and don’t box yourself in. Explore different creative outlets and see how they complement each other.
2. Resilience: Facing challenges and being the only one in the room can be tough, but staying resilient has helped me push through. **Advice**: Embrace setbacks as learning experiences. Keep your head high, and remember that every challenge makes you stronger.
3. Authenticity: Staying true to myself and my unique perspective has always set me apart. **Advice**: Be authentic in your work. Your individuality is your strength, and it’s what will make you stand out in any crowd.
For those starting their journey, focus on developing these qualities. Stay curious, stay strong, and always be yourself. Your unique blend of skills and authenticity is what the world needs.
Do you think it’s better to go all in on our strengths or to try to be more well-rounded by investing effort on improving areas you aren’t as strong in?
I believe it’s a balance between both: embracing your strengths while also working on areas where you’re less strong. Take my journey into acting as an example. I didn’t grow up acting, but I always had a passion for it. When I started, I wasn’t the best—far from it. But I didn’t let that stop me. I took acting classes and kept pushing myself to improve.
Focusing on my strengths, like modeling and creativity, gave me a solid foundation. But investing effort into acting, an area where I wasn’t initially strong, made me a more well-rounded entertainer. It opened up new opportunities and deepened my understanding of the arts.
By combining your strengths with continuous learning in weaker areas, you not only enhance your existing skills but also expand your horizons. This approach can lead to a richer, more versatile career and personal growth.
So, I’d say, go all in on your strengths to build confidence and momentum. But don’t shy away from areas where you’re not as strong. Investing in those can be incredibly rewarding and can turn potential weaknesses into new strengths.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://linktr.ee/justusking
- Instagram: @Just.Us.King
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@kickingitwiththeking
Image Credits
@nm.photography20
@coleworldd_
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