Many of us have a particular signature appearance that the people we know have given us. For me this look was my hair. As a woman with natural hair, I am a naturalista (Google defined the term as: A natural woman devoted to the natural growth of her own natural textures without the use of any chemical process). Granted, it wasn’t the fact that I went natural, but the growth I maintained and what many may know as “natural hair goals,” was the reason I gained this title. No one recognizes the struggle stage I was going through in the first few months of my natural journey; therefore, I could not truly understand how they could praise something that is so small in defining who I really am.
It would be a complete lie for me to say my hair is not a part of me, but I have learned it isn’t the only part of me. While many other women saw long and big curly hair as goals, I admired women who could wear bold and short looks. Therefore, Jan. 2019, I decided to cut off my fully grown out natural hair and rock a bold and new tapered cut. This not only shocked my friends and family but people I would come across on social media from time to time. The reactions shocked me. I didn’t realize how many people noticed my hair until it was gone. Before I actually made this decision, I mentioned it to a select few. Looking back at that time the only reason I spoke to them was to gain confirmation that I was doing the right thing. I know now, I don’t need approval.
This was more than a new look for me. Other than the fact it saves me so much more time, this is one of the most liberating decisions I have made for myself. It was freeing not to have to worry about keeping up with the norms of natural hair and what is seen to be “hair goals.” Make no mistake there was a point I became hesitant, but I knew deep down this was a change I wanted for me.
From cutting my hair, I realized this was a new beginning for me. One that I planned to take full advantage of and enjoy. I encourage all college women and women period to go for that new beginning and revel in it. Even if at some point you become hesitant, go for it. Make that decision for you.
So, cheers to new beginnings!