How To Make It In This, Or Any Other, Industry

Often times I'm asked how can one make it in the fitness industry as a successful model or trainer. Honestly the information I share with people applies to this, or any industry, for that matter. Business is business and should treated as such. That is the problem ,in my opinion, most "models" don't act as if they are a business.

I've invested in many careers over the years and to be brutally honest, most people just don't get it. The ones that do, however, understand that there are qualities that are vital to make it in this industry and any other.

1. Be a Person of Your Word- Good or bad, right or wrong, always do what you say you're going to do. Over the years I've had differences with people, situations didn't always turn out as planned, but I've always done whatever I can to make it right. On the other hand, I've had people not treat me the same in return or deal with a situation with the same professionalism and tact. Just do what you say you are going to do, or own up if you can't and you'll always end up coming out looking good.
2. Be Prepared- Always be ready for a photo shoot, appearance, audition or meeting. Whatever situation arises never give the excuse, "I need more time." If you need more time, et someone know as early on in the process as you can. Don't come in at the eleventh hour and have that lame excuse.
3. Work Hard- Always give 100% in every situation and give more than you are being paid to give, especially if you aren't being paid. That is how you get called back, that is how you establish a great reputation, that is how you become a consistently hired model or actor.
4. Be Pleasant to Work With- There is nothing worse than someone who gripes, complains and acts as if the world owes them something. Even if the situation is poor always put on your best face. You can change the situation around by being the person who brings the positive energy.
5. Help Others- If you are always looking to serve others and help them get where you are or want to be, you'll always get something positive in return. Don't give to get, give because you want to. Giving with expectation is always the wrong attitude.
6. Be Happy for Other People's Successes- Don't run around being jealous, envious, or angry because someone else got the gig, landed the cover, or won the show. Get outside the mentality of competition and understand that appreciating someone else's success could be the very thing you need in order to see your own.
7. Learn to Be Happy With What You Have- There is nothing wrong with wanting more out of life, but appreciating what you have now makes getting more even more enjoyable.
8. Be Consistent- Trying something once and giving up is no way to accomplish anything in life. Jumping from idea to idea is no way to make it either. I've heard it said like this, "be like a postage stamp, stick to one thing till you get there."
9. Have Fun- Your career choice should be one you enjoy and have fun doing...especially when times get tough. If you don't love modeling, acting, or promoting events then get out now.
10. Know That Things Can Always Turn to Your Favor- Even in the midst of chaos, keep your head cool and proceed with a positive attitude because you never know what will change. Situations will always work out if you keep a cool head.

I'm writing this as therapy as well as to provide information that you can benefit from . I have a few business situations, that I'm dealing with right now, that require I put these suggestions in action. I've been doing what I do for many years and I'm still trying to get it all right. Sometimes we do, sometimes we don't. Bottom line is that we learn from past success, failures, embarrassments and inconveniences and grow as a result.

I know for a fact that if you apply what I just laid out in this article you will always win in the end, even if it doesn't seem like it at the time.