How A Hair Cut Helped Me Find My Self-Confidence

As I approach my thirties, I realize that self-confidence is constantly tested and redefined as we age.  Although I never had an issue with self-confidence, a recent trip to the hair salon proved otherwise.

After examining a long summer, which included working full-time, a part-time internship, and six credit hours in graduate school, I decided I needed to start summer with a fresh look. So without giving it a second thought, I cut off all of my long locks—twelve inches of them to be exact!  I also donated my hair to Locks of Love, a charity organization benefiting cancer patients.  However, I never imagined how I would feel afterwards.

I cried and spent hours talking to friends and family, begging for reassurance that I was still me.  I finally realized that their reassurances didn’t matter; I had to find confidence in myself again for the first time in years.  Finally, I realized that I am me, and I will always be me, regardless of how I look.

This experience made me realize how millions of women around the world suffer illnesses and losses every day. If I couldn’t get through this obstacle, then how do I compare to those fighting bigger issues?  While I chose to let go of my mane, many women don’t have the luxury of choice at all.

Since joining New York Women in Communications and networking with members at events, I have met many women who have inspired me with stories of personal hurdles and growth.  Through these networks, we have the ability help strengthen both the personal and professional self confidences of our fellow community of women.

Now I will always remember that self-confidence is about believing that you are presenting yourself in the best way possible. When you accept this self-affirmation, the rest of the world will follow your lead. And in my case, it was only hair. It grows back!

~Brooke Kelly Selby, Corporate Communication, City University of New York.