Alexandra Beck wrote:
Hey guys. I'm 23, and I know I'm not old at all.

But the modeling world is so fast paced, I've begun to feel that I'm reaching the "end of my time". Especially living in Tokyo, where you are considered "old" as a female by age 25.

I spend most of my life confused as to what I wanted to do, and still not having completely figured out, I'm just 1 1/2 years away from being "old". I still feel like a kid. I haven't even really experienced a healthy romantic relationship.

How many of you guys feel the way I do? And how to you face/accept these fears? Models especially have it tough, I feel. Hopefully we can share philosophies to keep us sane.

I can't help you from a model's perspective at all, but I will say this -- I'm 33 and have no idea what I want to be when I grow up. I've got a kid on the way. This whole situation is scary. So, um, cheer up? You're not old yet, and you won't be at 25 either.

Warrenjrphotography-SJ wrote:
This "old at 25" stuff sounds like nonsense.

From a completely medical/scientific point of view you reach your peak of health from age 25 to about 34/35 (it's also why birth control is not recommended once you're over 35).

Prior to 25 your brain is still developing.

Also, some people age faster than others so one can look like they are in their 20's even if they are in their early 40's if you have good genetics and take care of yourself.

There was a man that I saw this morning in the news that's 102 that looks like he's 62 proving my point.

I was told by 10 different people that I'm considered "old" for this industry. These are people shooting for national magazines. I since changed my age on every online profile I have. Can't do anything about my ID though.

Alexandra Beck wrote:

I'm not saying I think it's old, I'm saying society/the modeling world, ESPECIALLY JAPAN'S (where I live) says so.

But you are CHOOSING to participate in that culture. You knew going into it the expected lifespan of that type of modeling. If your happiness and self worth is dependent on being accepted by that culture then you can only look within to change how you feel about things. "Fearing" getting old is a strong word to use.

Have fun while you are within the culture and when you are out of it find another form of modeling. Your worth isn't based on how people view you.