My Decision To Go Natural

I was natural mostly all of my life, and surprisingly, continued with 'the struggle' throughout college. I did a pretty good job at maintaining my hair myself, as I loved everything about natural hair care; at the same time, I was not interested in spending hours or a fortune in hair salons. It was a hobby for me. I also did hairstyles such as braids, twists, cornrows, etc. with or without extensions for clients while in college. Why not make extra cash doing something I love?!?


I was known around campus for my huge puff, which was every color in the books: red, orange, black, blonde. You name it, I had it! I was of the impression that since my hair is natural, it could withstand the bleaching and dying. It went downhill from there. By time as I graduated college, my afro was no longer thick. I could now see straight through it. It was no longer cute!

I remember distinctly stressing over how I was going to style my hair for my job interviews with the Big 4 accounting firms. I was of the impression that natural hair will not be accepted in a professional environment. Will I not be hired just because of my hair? For some reason, I felt my hair will influence their decision, discounting the fact that I graduated top in The School of Business. For this reason, I relaxed my hair that Sunday before my week of interviews. How else was I going to style my damaged natural tresses anyway? I was just frustrated, as well, and knew relaxed hair will be easier. I kept my hair relaxed during my entire tenure in public practice from January 2007 - February 2013. 

Relaxer Days

Relaxer Days - With color

February 15, 2013 was my last relaxer and last month in public practice. It's amazing how my decision to relax initially was partly influenced by the impression that natural hair is still not considered "professional", even in this day and time. My relaxed hair, at this point, was brittle, thin and boring. That umph factor was just not there! I realized that I was merely keeping my hair in a ponytail daily. 

Ponytail Phase - Bun

Ponytail Phase

I decided that I will go back natural so I can enjoy the versatility of natural hair. This time, I promised myself that I will make an effort to keep my hair healthy. This is not only a natural hair journey but also a healthy hair journey. I am learning daily from others, but it is exciting!

Stay tuned...xo