“The only way to do great work is to love what you do. If you haven’t found it yet, keep looking. Don’t settle.”
These wise words come from Steve Jobs, an entrepreneur who knew a great deal about determination, perseverance, and of course, following your passion.
Have you always been enchanted with makeup artistry? Perhaps it began as a small child, when you experimented with your mother’s makeup, or maybe later, as a teenager, when you used makeup as a form of self-expression. Regardless of when makeup first cast its spell, it is a career that is highly rewarding and very attainable (no matter your age).
It’s all about following your gut! To help you along, we’ve put together some ways you can determine whether makeup artistry is your calling, and your next steps.
1. Do Some Soul Searching
Perhaps you’re currently enrolled in university or college and are thinking that you may not be headed down the right path, or maybe you’re currently working full-time in a dissatisfying career. You’re not alone! Several years ago, current QC Makeup Academy student Amber Smith was on the verge of starting university, but quickly realized that it was not right for her. After some soul-searching (and maintaining her fabulous beauty blog), she enrolled at QC Makeup Academy to pursue a career in makeup artistry and immediately discovered her passion.
For many, becoming a makeup artist is a natural choice, and one that is made at a relatively young age. For others, the decision may come after other jobs and years of consideration. The beauty of following your gut and pursuing your passion is that it’s never too late. There are many benefits to pursuing makeup artistry after achieving other goals and working in other fields!
Tune into what excites, motivates, and speaks to you, as this could be your calling.
2. Research, research, research!
If the makeup industry sounds like one you would love to be part of, find out more about it! Do you have the time to enroll in a makeup artistry course? Regardless of your experience, education is always valuable, and there are many options available to aspiring makeup artists looking to advance their skills. Obtaining a certification will open many doors, and building your list of clientele will help you create a name for yourself. Be sure to evaluate your current financial situation and goals as you research—this will help you make the best career decision!
3. Practice Makes Perfect
If makeup artistry is what gets you excited, you should be practicing every chance you get. Start by asking friends and family members to be models, as this will allow you to work on different skin types and colors, face shapes, and ages. Be sure to photograph the work that you do, as this will illustrate your strengths, and show where you can improve. Beyond your friends and family, find models on which to practice!
4. Be Patient
This article began with an inspiring and wise quote from famous entrepreneur Steve Jobs, which served to illustrate the importance of following your passion and loving what you do.
Working towards a makeup artistry certification, building your clientele, and creating a reputation for yourself will all take time. You’re never too old or too young to begin a career in makeup artistry, but it will not happen overnight—this type of profession requires a great deal of determination, hard work, and (of course) passion!
A hearty dose of love for the makeup industry as well as true enjoyment of what you do will ensure that your hard work is worth it!
