How Your Identity, Branding & Mindset Determine Your Success as an Actor or Model

By Alycia Kaback

If you’re an actor or model, you’ve probably been told that success is about talent, looks, or the right connections—but let me tell you something I’ve learned from working with industry leaders and high achievers: it’s none of those things.

Yes, talent matters. Yes, networking helps. But the real game-changer? Your identity. Your mindset. Your brand.

I just wrapped up an incredible deep dive into identity and branding at Tony Robbins’ Time to Rise Summit, and what I learned needs to be shared—because these lessons are the blueprint for making it in this industry in 2025 and beyond.

So if you’re tired of spinning your wheels, waiting for the right opportunity to come knocking, or struggling to stand out in this competitive business, keep reading. Because today, we’re about to completely redefine what’s possible for you.

Your Identity = Your Career Thermostat

Let me ask you something:

Who do you believe you are?

Not what you say you want, but what you actually believe about yourself.

Because your identity is like a thermostat—it controls the level of success, love, and opportunity you allow into your life. If your belief system is set at 72°, you will always return to that level, no matter how much you try to “push” your career forward.

💡 Here’s how it works:

• • If things start going well—if you book a big job, land an agent, or get a major opportunity—your subconscious thermostat kicks in. If you’re used to struggle, that success will feel “too hot,” and you’ll find ways to self-sabotage back to your comfort zone.
  • If things start going badly, you hustle, grind, and do everything you can to get back to that familiar level.

So, how do you raise your thermostat?

By rewiring your identity.

• • First, recognize your old identity. What are the beliefs keeping you stuck? “I’m not good enough.” “I’m too old.” “I don’t have the connections.” Write them down.
  • Second, redefine who you need to become. If you were already successful, how would you think? How would you act? How would you show up to auditions?
  • Third, condition it daily. The fastest way to shift your identity is through repetition, movement, and voice. Every morning, say out loud:

“I am a working actor. I am in demand. I am powerful. I attract opportunities.”

It might feel awkward at first, but trust me—your words shape your reality.

Push vs. Pull Motivation: Why Most People Fail

Most struggling actors and models rely on push motivation.

That means they’re forcing themselves to work harder, relying on willpower, and grinding until they burn out. The problem? Willpower runs out.

Successful talent? They use pull motivation.

They don’t have to “convince” themselves to train, audition, or build their brand—it’s just who they are.

If you’re constantly pushing yourself, you’re fighting an uphill battle. But when your identity and purpose pull you forward, you have unlimited energy and persistence.

How do you switch from push to pull?

• • Attach your career to a bigger purpose. Who do you want to inspire? How will your success impact others?
  • Find joy in the process instead of waiting for results.
  • Condition your mind daily with movement, music, affirmations, and action.

The most successful people in this industry don’t force success—it pulls them forward.

Breaking the Beliefs Holding You Back

The #1 thing stopping you from booking roles or signing with agencies isn’t the competition. It’s your own limiting beliefs.

Here’s what I learned:

• • You can’t erase limiting beliefs in two hours, but you can break free in just a few days if you fully commit.
  • Your beliefs create your reality. If you believe you’re always struggling, your brain will filter out every opportunity that contradicts that belief.
  • The key to transformation? Momentum, total immersion, and implementation.

If you truly want to shift, you need to go all in. Surround yourself with the right people, flood your mind with success-driven thoughts, and take action before you feel ready.

Building a Brand That Gets You Booked

I talk about branding all the time, but here’s something I want you to understand:

Your brand isn’t your headshots. It’s not your website. It’s what people EXPERIENCE when they interact with you.

A strong brand makes casting directors, agents, and photographers come to YOU instead of you chasing them.

💡 5 Steps to Creating a Magnetic Identity & Brand:

1.  Understand your identity. Who are you in this industry? What makes you unique?

2.  Identify your competitive advantage. Why should someone hire YOU over another actor or model? Be specific.

3.  Communicate it powerfully. Whether in an audition, a meeting, or on social media—make sure people know what you stand for.

4.  Live it. People don’t just buy into your talent—they buy into your energy, consistency, and presence.

5.  Market it. If no one knows about you, your brand doesn’t exist. Show up, create content, and build relationships.

Branding isn’t optional anymore. It’s the difference between being chosen and being forgotten.

Your Relationships = Your Success

Success in this industry isn’t just about business—it’s about relationships.

• • The most successful actors & models aren’t just talented—they build strong connections.
  • They know how to communicate emotions effectively (this is why we teach emotional intelligence in VIP Ignite).
  • They choose relationships that elevate them instead of draining their energy.