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Create your own opportunities
Bobbi Brown
Founder and CEO, Bobbi Brown Cosmetics

I started working as a freelance makeup artist in 1980, and I worried that I didn't have enough money. My father told me I'd just have to figure out a way to make more money. So I started looking through the Yellow Pages and calling agencies, magazines, photographers - anyone I could offer my services to. I'd work for free until I proved myself.

Soon enough, I was getting regular calls to do their makeup. My father's advice made me feel that I was in control of my future. I realized that it was my job to find more opportunities.

NEXT: Ignore the noise

Last updated July 22 2008: 11:27 AM ET
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