The truth about transitioning

​Learning to love your natural hair goes much deeper than the surface. Wearing your natural hair becomes a journey of cultivating a closer connection with yourself. To make the journey more enjoyable, give more consideration to the transition. I learned of William Bridges work on Managing Transitions from a fellow creative entrepreneur. His definition of transition helps with understanding the struggle women experience when transitioning to natural hair.

One of his key concepts is that change and transition are different. He explains that we often fixate on the change, the actual event that happens and forget to tend to the transition, the non-linear emotional journey that accompanies a change and can go on even after the actual event has ended. Many women worry more about wearing curly hair vs straight, comments from friends, family, and co-workers, and managing a new hair care regimen, and forget to manage emotions such as feeling insecure about the length of their hair, or being afraid to wear their own hair, and embarrassed about not knowing how to care for it.

We use term "transition" loosely without considering the deep meaning of the term. According to William Bridges, transition is an emotional journey. You need to give yourself time to move through that and pay attention to your internal heartfelt experience of the transition. Ask yourself why it is important that you wear your hair natural. The answers will help keep you on track during tough times.

Bridges insists you must let go of the ending before you can fully step into the new beginning. Think about messages you heard about your hair growing up. Let go of any limitations and negative thoughts you have about your hair. Celebrate the new and say good-bye to the old with a ritual. Join a Natural Hair Is Easy or Own Your Own Natural Hair Journey workshop at naturally you salon for hands on practice managing your curls with confidence.

Starting the journey can be frightening. Allow yourself space to envision your new beginning. Start by visualizing yourself with your ideal hairstyle, length, thickness, etc. You have the potential to grow healthy hair. First you must know that your hair needs regular TLC to be healthy. All living things look more alive when they are loved. Your hair and scalp can be healthy and easy to manage with the right care.

Consult with me to discuss options for moving forward with your goals. Sign up to join my natural hair community online at Curls Night Out next month. CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE. Remember it’s all about the journey. It is yours. Enjoy every moment! The challenges you face while transitioning to your natural hair help you learn to love and develop your whole unique self.

'til next time,

Ebonee