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Writer's pictureTayvia Alfred

How Locs Helped Me Embrace My Authentic Self


 




Starting locs is often seen as just a hairstyle choice, but for many of us, it goes much deeper than that. Locs can represent a journey-a journey toward embracing your true self, your heritag, and the natural beauty that comes from within.

Have you ever felt like you were hiding behind your hair, trying to fit into a mold that wasn't really you? That's EXACTLY how I felt before I started my loc journey.


Be Yourself, Every Body

Else Is Taken.


Personal Story:


When I decided to start my locs, I was filled with mixed emotions. On one hand, I was excited about the prospect of finally embracing a hairstyle that I had admired for so long. On the other hand, I was NERVOUS!! Would I like how I looked? Would others judge me? What if I regretted it? The first few weeks were a rollercoaster. The "awkward phase" tested my patience -- my locs were frizzy!



The Transformation:



As the months went by, something amazing happened. My locs started to take shape, and with them, so did my confidence. Each twist and coil represented a step away from societal expectations and a step closer to embracing my true self. I no longer felt the need to conform to conventional beauty standards or hide behind hairstyles that didn't reflect who I was inside. Instead, I started to feel more connected to my roots, both literally and figuratively. My locs became a symbol of my journey to self-acceptance and pride in my natural beauty.


There were specific moments along the way that were pivotal in this transformation. I remember the first time someone complimented my locs—a stranger in the grocery store. She told me how beautiful and powerful they looked. That simple compliment made me stand a little taller and smile a little wider. Another turning point was when I realized I no longer felt the urge to compare my hair to anyone else's. My locs were unique, just like me, and I loved them for that.



The Power of Community:


Another crucial part of my journey was finding a community of others who were on the same path. Whether it was through social media, loc groups, or meeting others in person, connecting with people who understood the ups and downs of the loc journey was invaluable. We shared tips, supported each other through the rough patches, and celebrated our milestones together. This sense of community not only made the journey easier but also enriched it. I realized that I wasn’t alone—there were so many others who were embracing their authentic selves through their locs.



Encouragement for Others:


If you’re on the fence about starting your loc journey, I encourage you to take the plunge. It’s not just about changing your hairstyle; it’s about embracing who you are and the beauty that comes with it. Yes, there will be challenges, and yes, it requires patience. But the rewards far outweigh the struggles. You’ll find that as your locs grow, so does your confidence, your sense of identity, and your love for your natural self.

For those just starting out, remember that the early stages can be tough, but don’t give up. Find a supportive community, whether online or in person, to share your journey with. And most importantly, be patient with yourself and your locs—they’ll flourish in time, just like you will.

Trust The Process...


I’d love to hear about your own loc journey. Have you experienced something similar? Share your thoughts in the comments below—I’m always inspired by the stories of others on this path. And if you’re ready to start your own loc journey but don’t know where to begin, book a consultation with me. Let’s embrace your authentic self together!


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