Natural hair journey

So when I first started this blog I didn’t have a clear goal. I just knew I wanted to share my path to self-love. Working on my mental health by going to therapy and adopting good habits/coping skills plays the biggest part in my recovery. Oddly enough my hair also plays a big role in loving myself. It reminds me of some childhood memories when I felt very unloved. Learning to look past those old convictions and bringing up the patience to endure uncomfortable feelings is a process I want to share. My hair journey and my mental health journey are intertwined. I big chopped May 2019, so this is me now a half year later (November 2019). Looking through my old glasses I see an unloved, undeserving child. Looking through my new glasses I see a unique, lovable and brave woman. The theme of 2020: GOING DEEP.

May 2019 (big chop)
November 2019 (6 months post big chop)
May 2020 (1-year post big chop)
May 2021 (2 years post big chop)
May 2022 (3 years post big chop)
May 2023 (4 years post big chop)
April/May 2024 (5 years post big chop)
May 2025 (6 years post big chop)
May 2026 (7 years post big chop)
May 2027 (8 years post big chop)
May 2028 (9 years post big chop)
May 2029 (10 years post big chop)

What is my (smart) goal for 2020?

Specific(target a specific area for improvement): Habits.

Measurable (quantify or at least suggest an indicator of progress): Giving myself a scalp massage for 30 minutes at least once a week. Logging it.

Assignable (specify who will do it): I will massage my own scalp.

Realistic(state what results can realistically be achieved, given available resources): Once a week is achievable. I am physically able to massage my scalp.

Time-related(specify when the result(s) can be achieved): A log of 52 (weeks) scalp massages completed.

Why do I care about (my) hair? Why discuss it?

To (re)build my self-image. Seeing how healthy my hair looks is a sign of a good self-care system.

What hair certifications, licenses do I have?

None. Maybe someday I will. I have a lot of experience doing my own hair. For example, I do my own box braids (see picture).

How do I get information about haircare?

  • Google: Gives different perspectives due to all the opinions.
  • Books: Most are revisited multiple times before being published.
  • Experts: They are educated & experienced in this field.

Which source do I trust most to care for my hair?

My intuition. I am an expert on my own hair. I carry my hair 24/7 with me. To give you an idea I know through trial and error which hair wash frequency suits me the most.