how do I earn money to design and make a business and be successful in life? how can I get into movies and be an actor that a ton of people love to watch?
Hey! I am Mayci, and I am 13 years old. I've been trying to earn some money lately, but its been super hard. I've tried doing jobs around the house, that earns me some money but lots of things are also getting more expensive so its super hard!!! so I'm wondering how I can earn good money more. I also love acting, and watching people act, and I really want to get into movies, I've had some experience, not like singing but acting I just love it so much! I play volleyball but I think I want to focus on acting, and so I want someone to give me the steps of how to get into a movie, or get a portfolio, or things like that. I made and account on Depop, and have been selling some things, and I really love fashion and clothes!! I want to start my own business, but that is very hard cause I don't have that much money to start a business, but I thought that would be super fun. so I was wondering about fashion and business things like what do I do? sorry it's so long!!!
2 answers
Marzia’s Answer
Go girl the ambition at your age is so cool!
First off, never apologize for having big dreams! Being 13 with this much drive for business, fashion, and acting is super impressive. You’ve already taken big steps by selling on Depop and taking on household jobs!So smart and proactive and aware for your age! Impressed!
Here is a starter game plan:
1. Earning Money Right Now (at 13)
Level Up Your Depop: Since you love fashion, focus on making your Depop shop look awesome! Take bright pictures, write fun descriptions, and thrift unique pieces (with a parent’s help always include your parents for help! ) to resell.
Neighborhood Helper: Expand beyond chores at home!With your parents permission ofcourse- see if they would let you offer your help around the neighborhood or would like to tag along with you for things like pet sitting, dog walking, plant watering, or helping neighbors clean out garages or yards.
Save & Budget: Set up two savings jars (or savings accounts with a parent): one for your Fashion Business Fund and one for Acting Expenses (like headshots or classes).This will help you when you’re older!
2. Starting Your Fashion Business on a Budget
Start Small (No Big Investment Needed): You don't need thousands of dollars to start! Begin by upcycling or customizing thrifted clothing (like painting denim jackets, distressing jeans, or making handmade accessories) and selling them.
Use Social Media as Your Portfolio: Ask your parents first and foremost if they would help you create pages for your things and if not you’ll have photos of your creativity to show people who can help achieve your goals! Make sure to capture outfit ideas, and behind-the-scenes videos of you making or styling clothes. Building an audience is free and creates customers for life and having a collection of the things you create helps you attract people for the long run!
3. How to Get Into Acting & Movies
Build an Acting Portfolio: You don't need an expensive photographer yet! Have a friend or parent take clean, natural "headshots" (simple photos of your face from the chest up with plain lighting and no heavy makeup) on a smartphone.
Create an Acting Reel: Practice performing short scenes or monologues from your favorite movies on camera. Save your best clips into a simple video reel to show your talent.
Look for Local & Free Acting Experience: Join school plays, community theater, or local film student projects. Experience on local stages builds your resume fast and helps you make industry connections!
Audition Safely: Work with your parents to set up profiles on legitimate casting sites like Actors Access or Backstage (under their supervision) to look for local auditions, short films, or commercial calls.
Keep practicing, stay safe online with your parents' support, and keep working hard on both volleyball and your creative passions! You've got this!
Sijoy’s Answer
Your energy and curiosity for the future are truly inspiring, especially at just 13, as you explore business, fashion, and acting. Here are some ideas to help you on your journey:
Earning Money & Business:
Selling on Depop is a great start and gives you real experience. Keep trying new things like reselling clothes, making handmade items, or offering services like babysitting or pet care as you get older.
Think of this as practice. You don’t need a lot of money to begin. Small projects teach you about customers, pricing, and marketing.
Learn business basics like budgeting, saving, and reinvesting profits. There are many free resources online, like YouTube and blogs, to help you get started.
Acting & Movies:
Acting is a skill you can build over time. Start with school plays, local theater, or acting workshops. These give you experience and confidence.
Create a simple portfolio with photos and short clips of your acting. Share these on YouTube or Instagram to gain visibility.
As you grow, look for auditions for commercials, short films, or student projects. Each role adds to your experience.
Remember, actors who succeed are not just talented but also persistent. Keep practicing, learning, and putting yourself out there.
Fashion & Creativity:
Since you love fashion, mix it with your business ideas. Try designing small accessories, styling outfits, or curating thrift finds.
Share your journey by posting fashion ideas online, giving styling tips, or showing how you put together outfits. This builds your personal brand.
Over time, you can expand from small projects to bigger ones, like a clothing line or styling service.
Big Picture: Success takes time. Think of this period as your training ground. Every small step you take is building your skills and confidence. Stay curious, keep learning, and enjoy the journey.
You already have the mindset of someone who wants to create, perform, and build. Keep nurturing that, and opportunities will come as you grow. Wishing you all the very best in your future endeavors.