I’m Cutting My Long Hair Short - Here’s Why

Almost every morning for the last two years, I’ve gotten out of bed, looked in the mirror at my tangled waist-length curly hair, and said to my husband, “I think I’m done with this. Should I cut my long hair?”  He always responds with an emphatic, “No way!”

Then I jump in the shower and use tons of conditioner and detangling spray to get the knots out of my hair. Two hours later, when it’s completely air-dried and looking fabulous, I love my long hair again and agree with him: No way will I cut my long hair short!

But the next morning, when I wake up and look in the mirror, I go through the same routine and hate my long hair again. Why do I feel this intense pressure about going from long hair to short hair?

The Long and Short of Long Hair

The theme of women’s long hair vs. short hair has been around for centuries; it’s even mentioned in the Bible, “But if a woman has long hair, it is a glory to her; for her hair is given to her for a covering.” (1 Corinthians 11:15)  It’s also been said that a woman’s long hair is a sign that she’s young and healthy, which signals to a potential partner that she’s fertile and can bear children.

But what about women who don’t have to attract a mate? I’m already married, and I don’t want any more children, so why do I need to struggle with long hair? I hate to think a modern woman like me is just keeping my hair long to please my spouse!

It’s Just Hair. Stop Being So Emotional About It!

OK, so let me calm down for a minute and think rationally. Maybe writing a list of the pros and cons of short hair versus long hair will help me decide what to do.

Why Should I Keep My Hair Long?

1. It’s my signature look.
I’ve had long hair for my entire adult life. Everyone knows me with long hair. Am I ready to lose this vital part of my identity?

2. My husband loves my long hair.
After all, he married me with long hair, and it’s something he finds attractive about me. Is it fair to him to change my look?

3. People always compliment it.
I have a unique hair texture that stands out in a crowd. Complete strangers often come up to me to tell me how beautiful my hair is. What can I say? I love the attention!

4. I think I look nice.
If it were just about my husband’s opinion or the opinions of others, I think I could get over it and cut my long hair short. But I like my long hair for myself, especially when it’s freshly washed and dried.

5. I save a lot of money on salon visits.
A benefit of having long hair is that I don’t have to spend any money on haircuts. Because of its curly texture, I’m able to trim the dry split ends on my own every couple of weeks. Even if I don’t cut it precisely, you can’t notice any mistakes because of the curls.

Why Should I Cut My Long Hair?

1. It takes too much time.
Every day I spend at least an hour on my hair, between washing, conditioning, removing knots, combing it out, and waiting for it to dry. I can’t lie; I love the idea of being able to sleep in a little longer every morning.

2. I’ll save money on hair products
I spend a fortune on expensive detanglers, shampoos, conditioners, hair gels, mousses, smoothers, anti-frizz serums, and more. I’d love to see some more change in my pocket instead of being spent on maintaining my long hair.

3. It’s easier to maintain
I look forward to having a quick and easy wash-‘n-wear style for my short, curly hair. I can’t imagine how great it will be to shake out my curls and go.

4. I’ll have a new look
I’m ready for a new look; after all, I’ve had this same hairstyle for a long time. I want to explore a new me and not be afraid to make a change in my appearance.

What’s the Worst Thing That Could Happen?

After analyzing all my reasons, I’ve concluded that I will take the big step and cut off my long locks. I’m not quite sure why people make such a big deal about cutting a woman’s hair short.  After all, short hair can always grow back. Now it’s just a matter of convincing my husband!