My younger years of modeling were really just filled with fun trips. I was doing catalogues for Alexander's and Bloomingdale's.

Eight shows a week is daunting, and it can be terrifying. But it just instills such a sense of confidence and growth.

My mother totally protected me as a model. She took me on every look-see, she was there on the set if I wanted her to be.

My father's death, my move, and my frightening and difficult delivery created a tremendous amount of stress, pain, and sadness for me. I was practically devastated beyond recovery.

I went to an ordinary school in New York City with no other actors. I learned to compartmentalise different parts of my life. I was one person at home and then another person at work and for that reason my career didn't challenge my family life.

We've been taught, "Deny yourself pleasure." But moderation is harder because it requires really committing to balance. When I tell my trainer I had a glass of wine, he'll say, "Liquid bread!" And I'm like, "Ugh, but it was a nice one." It's a matter of checks and balances. And I finally found out how to set myself up to succeed. But I still need to commit to it. And everything gets exponentially harder the older you are. Fifty is a terrifying number for some people.

I absolutely would categorize myself as one of successful professional females. I think you can be successful and still be extremely present in a healthy life.