5 Reasons Why Transitioning To Natural Hair Is More About A Mental Transition

When I first entertained the thought of “going natural” I was highly unaware of exactly what I was about to embark on. Of course my initial goal was to let my natural texture shine through but it quickly turned into so much more.

I applaud all the naturals that have paved the way before me and returned to their natural hair for whatever reasons that were important to them during their natural hair journey. As my curls and coils started to peek through, making their way into society, I started to realize this is so much bigger than just hair.

Like every other soon to be natural who was unaware of their natural texture, I was on the edge waiting to see what texture I had that would help define me.

A head full of curls later I soon realized my beauty didn’t lie in the texture I carried on my head, but the thoughts that dictated what I thought would define who I was based on that curl pattern.

Where your thoughts go everything else will follow

I honestly thought I would become natural and that things would be all good with no changes to follow. I didn’t think there was a big deal surrounding returning to my natural hair texture but I soon learned it wouldn’t be easy.

During my natural hair journey when I would get frustrated during the transition process I had to make some changes starting with my mentality.

Transitioning definitely takes on a life of its own. I don’t regret it at all but mentally it meant maintaining a positive outlook while being open to changes and the hardships.

If you find yourself getting frustrated stop, regroup, and rethink about what it is your trying to accomplish to help you get through it.

Transitioning is as fun as YOU make it

Who wants a lackluster transitioning process? I know I didn’t which is why I soon had to keep my mind clear removing anything that was hindering me from having a fabulous transition process.

I made my transition phase fun and challenged myself to always push the envelope further and get creative. If something did not work for me I would stop and try something new.

It took some time and some effort on my part but before you knew it my transitioning became less challenging and more fun.

Talk, watch and listen to other naturals uplifting stories

There are times when you may feel like giving up or just simply saying this is not for me. I found myself wanting to feel the success of others hoping it would rub off on me.

I would watch and read about countless naturals with stories and before long I was so pumped up at the possibilities there was no one going to stand in my way of success.

Just like negativity is contagious, so is positivity. Surround yourself with positive people with the same goals. Listen, watch and talk with others that will help elevate you to even higher levels.

Don’t always trust how you feel

Truth – some days just weren’t great days for me and that would spill over into my transition. Although I had the had help of my hair stylist as I transitioned, some days were just more challenging than others.

One day I would be all excited then the next I would look in the mirror like what am I going to do with these two textures. One thing I learned was that these concerns I had always worked themselves out.

It wasn’t even necessary for me to waste time on how I was feeling as everything was always fine in the end. If you do have a valid or serious concern address it, but do not get caught up in your feelings especially on bad days.

Cluttered Mind = Cluttered Life

If your mind is all over the place and busy with many things it will definitely hinder your transition phase and overall natural hair journey. Let’s be real everyone is busy these days with very little time to focus on our hair 24/7.

We just weren’t designed to be successful with so much junk in our heads. Now I am not saying ignore everything else in your life and become hair obsessed as moderation is always key.

What I am saying is living a well-balanced life is a direct reflection of your mind. I am sure many are familiar with the passage “Where the mind goes, the man follows”.

Keep your mind clear and your thoughts in a good place and you will experience a really great natural hair journey even when you hit bumps in the road.

Transitioning is not as bad as it may seem and if you are struggling skim over these 5 points and ask yourself do I fall into any of these categories? What has helped you get through your transition phase?