This is something I've always thought about as I ventured into my freelance business.

When I earn money from a job, its so hard not to spend it all on products. Being in the beauty industry, you easily get sucked into new, shiny, products to stock in your kit. There are thousands of influencers and makeup artists who have holy grail items and you get tempted buying all of it in the hopes that your artistry will look the same. This was a downward spiral that I did NOT want to be stuck in. I wasn't saving money and my 'investment' back into my kit wasn't getting me the results I wanted.

There came a time where all I did was save the money. I resisted the temptation because I started to realise that my work wasn't getting significantly better. Sure, the makeup reflected a bit more, it had a nicer tone, but it wasn't life-changing. Throughout these saving months I realised I already had similar products to what someone was reviewing. Moreover, I came to the conclusion that I could achieve a similar look without going out and buying more.

I didn't need the next best thing. What I actually needed to focus on was: technique.

So, began my journey into masterclasses. I've been taking masterclasses ever since I decided to venture into makeup artistry. It has literally changed my outlook on my career and my work. I am a firm believer in masterclasses IF YOU GO TO THE RIGHT ONES.

I think learning from the best in the business is what accelerates your career. Imagine experiencing 30 years of hardship, mistakes and obstacles all in 1 day. How many gems can you get? How far can that take you?

This is where my savings came in handy. There was an opportunity to do a full-day hair workshop, hands-on I might add, for $500. It seems like a lot of money, but 30 years of experience for $500 seems pretty worth it to me. What I would gain was much more valuable. Techniques, tips, ways to navigate this industry.

After mountains of product, you realise that, without the right technique, the products are meaningless. They aren't performing to the best of their ability because you don't know how to use it. 

Find mentors who have an aesthetic you want to portray and go out there and learn. Research the legends, find the best in the business, and take on the technique. And above all, practice and teach someone else. You'll only officially learn it once you've put it into practice and are able to show it to another peer.