Taking on the LA Lifestyle: Let's Break it Down

So you want to move to Los Angeles but aren't sure about making the big move? Within this post I'll be breaking down aspects of the LA lifestyle movies and television may fail to present realistically to their audiences. You may think you have a general idea of what you're getting into... but sometimes we come to realize that things are much different then maybe what you imagined them to be. Learn from my mistakes and misunderstandings from a honest perspective. Let's break it down!

Ask Yourself Important Questions

Whether you're considering moving to LA to pursue a career, go to school, or even just get away from small town living, this is the place to be. California is extremely diverse and presents endless amounts of opportunity. As a young person, the idea that "anything is possible" was extremely captivating to me. Although I was born in California, my parents moved our family to Southern Utah when I was just four years old. I never really understood why they made the move until I became older and it finally clicked. Overall, they wanted me to grow up in a more wholesome environment. Somewhere they knew I'd be safe and develop values that truly made me who I am.

My intention is not to turn you away from the prospect of city life but rather give you the pros and cons coated with a taste of reality. Ugh I know... but I wish I would have listened to what others had to say. Although sometimes you have to learn for yourself the hard way and that's the honest truth. Here are some general questions you might ask yourself before making your big move.

• Does LA provide ample opportunity to go after my dreams?

• Is space, time and energy something I'm willing to sacrifice?

• If I move to LA, will I attend college? OR How will I make a living?

Note: Now I expect that everyone's situation is going to be a little bit different. That's okay! Take these questions with a grain of salt and modify them to fit your needs. Write down a Rory Gilmore pros and cons list and discover for yourself what your top priorities are. If you know, you know.

Expect the Expenses

Without a doubt, Los Angeles is a pricey city. For decades it has been ranked one of the most expensive cities in the United States. So if you don't come from money, which let's be honest the majority of Americans don't. Be prepared to work your ass off. Although I believe money is an important tool, I personally don't believe that money is everything. So try your best not to stress about it too much. What's the point? Work hard and trust that what you put in will come back to you. Plus you will feel so much more accomplished when you've honestly earned it.

Now on a more realistic note, it is important to budget your money and monitor your spending habits. After all, you do need it to live. Something I personally experienced was finding the balance between work and play. Being healthy and able to work is a blessing and honestly it's good for you! Even so, it is of the upmost importance you know when to take a break. You're a human, not a machine.

Now if you're an artist, you probably are going to have to work odd end jobs to make ends meet sometimes and that's okay! Don't let anyone tell you differently. Let's normalize this please! Try to find something that doesn't completely drive you crazy. This will make your life so much more pleasant, believe me. Work part time but don't forget why you moved to the city. Make that your top priority. Keep a positive attitude and know that it's just another stepping stone along the way. Enjoy the journey and believe that great things will come when they're meant to.

• Where will I live and how will I afford it?

College

Considering moving to LA for college? Amazing! If you're considering becoming an actor this is the place to be. If you've never lived in LA, attending college is the perfect time to transition and make friends. If you're in the industry, you know how important it is to network. Make friends and be kind to everyone you meet because you never know who they are or who they might become down the road. Believe me, crazy sh*t can happen and establishing connections is everything.

Now, I understand college in California can get pricey and honestly you don't see very many artists getting full ride scholarships. That is just the truth of the matter. So personally, I look at it as making an investment in myself and my talent. Not to mention that paying a little bit every month on student loans after graduation can be a tax write-off and build your credit. Which is handy for young adults.

Personally, if I had the choice to go back and attend college all over again, I would. I believe it was worth every penny. Not only did I gain so much knowledge from amazing teachers, I also made the best of friends. So you truly never know! Sometimes you just have to trust your gut and go for it.

• Is student loan debt something I'm willing to accept and take on in the future?

• Am I willing to take on a part time job while also attending school?

Wrapping it Up

Like I mentioned previously, every individuals situation is going to be different. As this blog post could potentially go on forever, please feel free to comment below with any questions you may have. I'd love to hear your stories and offer any advice I can. After all, us artists have to stick together. It's not an easy road but one worth fighting for.

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