I am in my late twenties, and I've pursued modeling off and on (mostly on in my twenties) for fifteen years. I've earned some money doing it, but rarely enough to make ends meet. I struggle to pay for basic needs like clothing, transportation, and rent. I occasionally in the service industry to supplement my income. I cannot stress enough how much I absolutely, positively DESPISE those jobs. They feel degrading, because they're far from the modeling career I wanted. The financial struggles, and having to work "survival" jobs I hate, indirectly remind me, "If you were better looking, you wouldn't have these problems."

The way I feel about myself would likely come as a surprise to others. People often compliment "my height, my slenderness, and my long, toned limbs" and my curly hair (even though I HATE it!).

When I look in the mirror, the reflection might look the same, but it feels different. I see someone who's too short (I'm 5'9). A few people have pointed out that my legs are short compared to my torso, and I am extremely ashamed of this. My frizzy, curly hair makes me feel frumpy, ugly, and homely. One day I covered the mirrors in my apartment, so I wouldn't have to look at my hair. My face bothers me too. I have OK cheekbones, but they could be better. Overall, my face is plain and boring.

I can't make my legs longer, and I can't make my cheekbones higher. I can't make top agents or designers say yes. How can I stop resenting myself for this?