But on the other side, modeling/acting is glamorous, fun, exciting, and extremely lucrative. There are many opportunities for travel to the most beautiful cities, countries and islands on earth. Most successful models/actors wouldn't change places with anyone because they are happy and in control of their careers. They know what they want and how to get it.

Modeling/acting are competitive fields. The work demands a great deal of determination, persistence, and stamina. If you seriously want to be a professional model/actor, answer the following questions honestly:

• Do you have the stamina for long hours of hard work?

• Do you really have the determination, courage, and desire to succeed?

• Can you deal with rejection on a daily basis?

• Can you handle the stress?

• Do you have enough confidence in yourself?

• Are you emotionally stable?

• Can you say "no" to drugs?

• Can you say "no" to a late party when you know you have to getup early to work the next day and must look your best?

• Can you discipline yourself to maintain a healthy mind and body?

• Do you have a clear complexion?

• Would you be willing to change (cut, color) your hairstyle to thehigh fashion look if needed?

• If you were told to lose 10 pounds in a week, would you do it?

• Do you read fashion magazines regularly to keep up with the worldof fashion?

• Can you take direction from anyone?

• Do you have a good bone structure, perfect teeth and healthyhair?

• Do you have what it takes and absolute determination to succeed?

• If your answer to all of these questions is "yes" then you're readyto get started!

There is a lot of preparation that must go into planning your career, setting the right goals, and having the right tools. These are the first steps. The next step is to have the right mix of healthy good looks, talent, and a positive attitude. Then you need to make a conscious commitment to ensure your success. Only when you have really decided to give modeling or acting your best, it is time to take action.

If you have never worked with an agency, we'd like to tell you what to expect. We're going to make a lot of references to agencies. Having operated a successful international agency for nearly a decade, we know all the ins and outs of what actually goes on, and the purpose of this guide is to familiarize you with the ways in which an agency works, the things they do, and and then train you to do it all yourself!