Last week, while waiting in line for complimentary frozen yogurt, I overheard a conversation between my son and a new friend. The other child’s mother complimented my curls, to which I instinctively replied, “Thank you!” But then, without thinking, I mentioned, “I’m thinking about cutting it short.” Her shocked expression was immediate, and she exclaimed, “No! But why would you do that?”
This reaction caught me off guard. Why was I surprised by a stranger’s strong feelings about my hair? It led me to ponder whether I was subconsciously seeking validation for contemplating a new look or if I was simply making small talk. Regardless, I wondered why she felt compelled to advise against my decision. What makes people believe their opinions about someone else’s appearance are warranted?
When my friends discuss changing their hair, I often respond with excitement, asking, “What are you planning to do?” I typically don’t discourage anyone from making a drastic change—unless it involves bangs, which often lead to regret after the first week. I wholeheartedly support the “Short Hair, Don’t Care” movement. For a while, I grew my hair out after the birth of my daughter, but it’s fascinating how invested some people become in other women’s hairstyles.
The sheer number of opinions I’ve received about my hair choices has been quite revealing. For many women, particularly black women, hair is deeply intertwined with identity. It represents our beauty and is often subjected to scrutiny and judgment. It’s a source of pride, stress, and love. The hair industry, worth billions, reflects the ongoing struggle many women of color face as they navigate societal norms and the desire for acceptance.
Fortunately, I have found plenty of inspiration for short hairstyles lately, and I feel like the universe is sending me signals that it’s time for a change. My social media feed is flooded with images of women sporting fresh cuts, which I interpret as a positive sign for my own transformation.
I’d be remiss if I didn’t admit to feeling some anxiety about taking such a bold step. It’s been a while since I made a drastic change (the blue phase was two years ago), and I’m apprehensive about how people will respond. Yet, I remember the words of Coco Chanel: “A woman who cuts her hair is about to change her life.” I’m ready to embrace that change and shed my past self as I step into a new phase of life.
So, I’m starting with the most immediate change—my hair.
For those considering similar changes or exploring family-building options, resources like Resolve offer excellent guidance. You might also find our post on at-home insemination kits useful as you navigate your journey. If you’re looking for a reliable provider, check out Babymaker, they are an authority on this topic.
Summary
The author reflects on her experience considering a drastic haircut amid societal pressures and opinions. She emphasizes the personal nature of hair choices, particularly for women of color, and acknowledges the anxiety surrounding public perception. Ultimately, she embraces the idea of change and self-empowerment, encouraging others to explore options for personal transformation.
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