As a model or actor, a lot of you are confused with success.  You get a campaign and you honestly feel that you’ve made it.  You’re featured on an episode of a tv show, and you honestly feel that you made it. I have some news for you:  You have not.  This is a major problem among emerging talent.  It pays to maintain a consistently humble attitude and gratitude.  I always tell people, the bigger you become, the smaller you should be.  It’s good to rejoice when you are chosen for a job, but remember that you are the same person you were before you were chosen – and there’s no telling when the next opportunity will come your way. 

So be practical; be grateful; stay grounded; be appreciative.  Understanding the realities of the fashion/entertainment industry will help you achieve long-term rather than short-term success. 

Here are some key pointers:

    Try your best not to burn bridges.

    What may not work out for you may work for someone else.

    Don’t badmouth someone today, because you will definitely
          regret it tomorrow.

    Send appreciation cards to your agents, managers, or
          anyone who has guided you toward success.

    Don’t be late for a casting.

    Always smile, even if you’re having a bad day.

    Appreciate when someone is truthful with you.

    Take pride in your work, but don’t act as if the world owes
          you because of a pretty face.  At the end of the day, it’s 
          still a job.

    After the shoot, shake everyone’s hand – from the stylist to the
          lighting person to the photographer.  They all make it work for 
          you.  It’s a team effort.

“You are not rich after wrapping a single job
because it paid well.“

The entertainment world is uncertain, and it may be several weeks, months or even years before you get another booking.  So be smart … save your money!   If you have financial responsibilities, as we all do, plan ahead and, if necessary, be prepared to get a job that pays the bills.  Some models work graveyard shifts so they can keep their days open for modeling assignments when they do come up. Remembering that you’re not rich will keep you motivated.

I’m not rich, but I’m motivated. —MM

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