6 Ways To Triumph Over Self Esteem Hair Issues

Honestly I can’t believe I didn’t take the time to learn about my hair until now. You see, after I big chopped in April of 2012 I began wearing wigs.

I wore wigs* because I couldn’t adjust immediately to short hair because I had sported long hair for most of my life. Another reason was that I was still attached to having straight hair.

Back in the TWA my hair was never on point in my eyes and I became frustrated. Let’s face it, our hair is our crown and glory and when it doesn’t do what we want it can get a bit discouraging. Check out my 6 suggestions on how to overcome your self-esteem issues and keep it moving:

1. Document your journey 

List your products, regimens, and wash- days during your transition period. Pay attention to your hair and how it responds. When you have it all written down, you will know what your hair loves versus what it just flat out hates.

2. Experiment and get used to natural textures

Before your big chop, experiment with naturally textured wigs* and weaves*. This way you can see how a curlier halo frames your face.

3. Embrace versatility even outside of your comfort zone

After your big chop, embrace the versatility that is natural hair. This was my biggest mistake because I didn’t learn about my texture. Natural hair is like clay; we can mold it in various ways. Become one with your hair texture whether it’s 3A or 4C.

4. You must have realistic expectations

Become your own hair crush. Hair inspiration is one thing, but if you have a tightly coiled 4c texture, you’re less than likely to achieve the same results of someone with a looser curl pattern.

Learn to embrace your texture and work with it. Every head of hair will react different to products and regimens so the key to your hair journey is discovering what works for you.

5. Accept Shrinkage

If you spend every waking moment obsessing over your shrunken tresses, you’ll be your own worse nightmare; and let’s face it, that’s a major waste in energy.

6. Don’t damage your hair

Do not damage your hair in the process of trying to achieve a looser pattern because if you do that, your hair will end up looking much worse than you think it does before you started. Remember, your natural hair journey is what you make it so chin up and decide to be happy with your hair.