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Gina Balarin discovered that she has a unique way of looking at things, so maybe a 9-5 job wasn't for her. Whether it was learning to read ahead of many of her peers and deciding at an early age that her intellectual drive was more potent than her desire to dance, she's always considered herself somewhat of a trailblazer. Also, growing up in Apartheid South Africa, she understood how words could impact how people interacted with each other and how they felt about themselves. That drew her to hanging out her shingle and setting her sights on helping marketers worldwide do marketing they're proud of.
Gina has followed her gut instincts when it comes to deciding her path. And while sentimental in her own way, she also understands the value of letting go to embrace new challenges and opportunities. She has done this over and over again in her career – whether pursuing her higher education, writing a book, indulging her creative side, or doing a Ted talk – she has pushed forward down her own Communications Boulevard to the next opportunity.
When asked, "why marketing?" she thinks deep down she's always meant to be a marketer. Always fascinated by interesting people, she thrives on the interaction and problem-solving she gets to do with clients. Helping people find ways to be prouder of who they are, what they do, and how they make a difference in the world by leveraging the power of communication awakens her own drive to do the same.
Her best advice – look after yourself. Today. Now. And be brave. As Gina attests, even the most straightforward act of bravery can change our trajectory. It's all about the choices we are faced with and what we do with them. If we listen to that empowering inner voice, the one full of support, nothing can stop us from being extraordinary.
The Secret Army: Leadership, Marketing and the Power of People (on Amazon)
