Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Justine Gera. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Justine, looking forward to learning from your journey. You’ve got an amazing story and before we dive into that, let’s start with an important building block. Where do you get your work ethic from?
Both my parents have always been very hard working individuals, so I grew up seeing that from a young age. I have always been extremely self-motivated, competitive and disciplined. I never have been very reliant on others for help, and have always been comfortable working on my own and working hard for what I have. My work ethic is quite extreme and find myself usually going above and beyond for the final result.
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?
I have been dancing for 26 years now and always knew it was what I was going to do. I moved to Los Angeles from Vancouver, Canada in 2018 and have been able to expand my career into several different artistic avenues. Prior to moving to LA, I went to Blanche Macdonald: Fashion Institute for Fashion Business & Marketing. I knew I always wanted to go to school and have more education for my future. My dance & choreography career has brought me into many rooms and destinations throughout the years. I have had the opportunity to work with major recording artists as a movement coach, an associate & assistant choreographer for world tours, music videos, global commercials, and one of the worlds leading international cruise line; Royal Caribbean. I also can be seen in several movies and series featured on Apple TV+, Netflix, & the Disney Channel. I feel lucky to be able to work both on and off camera and can’t wait for what the new year will bring! I also plan on making a lot more clothing and diving into my other creative sides.
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?
1. Communication – developing solid communication skills will keep you working. I have learned a lot over the years just by listening and observing. Delivery is everything, and especially in a leadership role. Being able to read the room, deliver clear ideas, and speak well to others will often lead to a more enjoyable work place for everyone involved.
2. Relationships – building relationships is one thing, but building the RIGHT relationships for YOU is another. As I get older – I value loyalty and being around good people that are impactful in a positive way. It’s become more important to me to keep and build on relationships that are worth my time and energy, than chasing those that are not.
3. Boundaries & Balance – this is very much a work in progress for me, but over time I have understood how valuable it is. It’s very hard for me to say no to things and I tend to be a people pleaser and/or spread myself too thin. However, I am now understanding that setting boundaries and incorporating a balanced (not just strictly work focused life) is extremely healthy for me. I find myself happier and more fulfilled when I practice this.
Looking back over the past 12 months or so, what do you think has been your biggest area of improvement or growth?
My biggest area of growth in the past 12 months has for sure been practicing balance. I have been able to treat myself on a few little getaways and share many memories with loved ones and had time OFF. I feel a lot healthier and a lot happier this year because of prioritizing myself and I also feel lucky that I have been able to just enjoy living. I hope to continue this into the new year as work still flowed, yet balance was the key.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.justine-gera.com
- Instagram: @justinegera
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@JustineGera
- Other: TikTok: @justine.gera
Image Credits
Photo credit: Jesse Ballantyne
