For a lot of young models, the opportunity to work in the fashion industry happened by chance. They were scouted at the mall, or while doing typical teen activities. Modeling was just an opportunity that presented itself and not something they worked towards.
Of course, there are those who, at a very young age, knew that they wanted to become fashion models. Therefore, whether they thought they had the genetic make-up to qualify for the industry, they pursued the fashion world by signing up with a modeling agency for teens or auditioning for modeling jobs.
But whether or not a young model got into the profession organically, one thing is for sure, she has a massive edge over contemporaries who are not working yet.
The experience of dealing with different kinds of people, working under different systems and programs, and earning a considerable amount of money provides essential life lessons that schools do not touch on. In addition to that, working at a young age can modify behavior in a big way.
Creating a Mindset for Long-Term Success
It’s important to point, however, that such experiences and lessons of being a member of the working sector hold very little value if one does not have the right mindset. Therefore, it’s a must for parents, carers, and other concerned adults to guide young models.
Without the proper guidance of older folks, these young professionals can quickly lose the benefits their special opportunities provide them with. An immature and reckless lifestyle can prevent them from reaching the fullest potential and put their thriving career to an abrupt halt.
So, what should concerned adults teach them?
Save, save, save, and learn the basics of taxes.
No person is ever too young to learn the importance of managing finances for the future. So, when salary starts coming in for young models, parents should teach them how to budget their income to safeguard them for an uncertain future.
If parents feel that they are not savvy enough for the task, there are advisers that they can turn to for help. A young model will not only learn how to budget her income but also look into opportunities for wealth growth.
Learning how taxes work is also an essential aspect of success. Taxes are after your money and you need to pay them once you start earning an income You want to be certain that you understand the fundamentals because, at times, they are automatically deducted from work income and you need to be able to tell if the deductions are correct.
“You are not just a model.”
Modeling may be the life-long dream, but one’s career does not need to be all about it. So, continue learning. Learning has nothing to do with school; it’s about pursuing interests and deriving joy and value from knowledge.
Thus, encourage participation in enrichment programs, especially while one is still young. It’s a fantastic way to boost one’s value as a worker and neutralize the oft-demanding life of a model. Plus, the model can discover more possibilities for her life that can help her become the best version of herself.
If acting is something that a model has a natural knack for, let her try it out. This should be easy enough if she is under the management of a dynamic talent agency for children and teens.
Success comes to those who know how to balance work and life.
It is never laziness to seek personal time. It is a strategy for ensuring that you can be your best self every time you need to perform either for school or your modeling gig.
A balanced life is also a sound tactic for longevity in the industry. If a model divides her time properly to cover all the essentials of healthy living, the likelihood for burnout will remain low. Instead, she will be more appreciative of every opportunity that comes along and will have the right attitude to accomplish the work that comes her way.
Be an inspiration to others.
Always let what you do reinforce good values. You have a powerful platform to work with that allows you to be seen by more people. Use being a model to inspire other people.
This is actually what all professions should strive to do. In big and small ways, create an impact. Models may not get interviewed often, especially during the early stages of their career, but their interaction with other industry players can spur a positive change.
So, for parents of models, remind your child that it’s not enough that they are skilled at what they do, the person that they truly are should shine through as well. Thus, encourage kindness, good manners, respect, and a sense of accountability whether or not situations are pleasant.
Always be patient.
Studies reveal that the science behind success is one’s ability to be patient and keep on going no matter how difficult the circumstances are. The best things in life are rarely just handed; they are worked for. Otherwise, they are not worth keeping.
Treat every setback as an opportunity for a strong comeback. Consider failures as much needed lessons to avoid serious pitfalls in the future. And, acknowledge that time will do its work to your advantage. Just do what you need to – the things that are supposed to happen will happen. There’s no need to worry and hurry.
A support group is vital.
Successful personalities may often seem like those who thrive in being alone but for young people, it’s important to have a support group to keep them in check.
No matter how mature a lot of teen models appear to be, their age still places a limit on what they can do independently. Thus, it’s crucial to create a support group for them.
The people in this support group can be the agent from the management who’s always kind, a friend from school who doesn’t mind jotting down assignments, mentors, and family members. These are people to turn to when responsibilities get out of control. They help out, not do things for you.
These principles of a successful mindset for young models will help them manage their unique lifestyle better. Along with this, they can ensure a more stable future, whether they choose to transition into adult models or opt for a different career.
Author Bio
Adam Jacobs is the Managing Director of Bubblegum Casting, the longest running agency specialising in babies, children and teen talent in Australia. Bubblegum Casting works with some of Australia’s biggest brands, media properties and agencies to secure talented children to work in Television, Film and Modelling roles.
To read more on topics like this, check out the lifestyle category.
2018 ·
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