The Early Phases: Understanding the Journey
When I first started my loc journey, I didn’t know what to expect. It wasn’t just about hair—it was about embracing change and navigating through the phases of self-discovery. The early stages are difficult, and it can feel like you’re stuck in an "ugly stage." But it’s important to recognize that this is just part of the process.
The "Ugly Stage" and Beginner Phases
In the beginning, I had to lower my expectations. My hair didn't look the way I envisioned it would at first, and honestly, I was feeling insecure at times. The growth wasn’t always instant, and the texture changes can be frustrating. It’s normal to have phases where you feel a little lost and insecure, but trust me, it’s a part of the journey. The trick is not to compare yourself to others, no matter how beautiful their locs may seem. Everyone’s journey is different, and you can’t rush your process.
The Debate on Feminine vs. Masculine Looks
One of the ongoing internal debates I had in the early stages was about how my locs would be perceived. I couldn’t help but wonder whether they would be seen as more feminine or masculine. Locs are a personal choice, and while they’re often linked with a certain lifestyle, they don’t fit into any one mold. It's important to own your look, whether you’re feeling more feminine or more androgynous—there's no wrong way to rock your locs.
The Importance of Styling
Styling your locs is key to maintaining a polished look and expressing your personality. I began with coils, and they were a great starting point. But it wasn’t just about the look—it was about the confidence that started to build as I was able to feel attractive with my own hair. The sense of pride that comes with seeing your own locs grow and develop is something you can't replicate.
Missing My Stylist
One of the things I miss most about the beginning of my journey is my stylist. She moved to Texas a year into my loc journey, and I’ve never met anyone who could handle my hair quite like she did. I miss her down-to-earth vibe and her knowledge of locs. But even though she’s gone, I still carry with me the knowledge she shared, and I continue to embrace the journey.
Embracing the Growth and Texture
As time went on, I started embracing the growth of my locs. My hair texture is 4a/4b, and it was initially a challenge to understand how it would behave in locs. But over time, I learned to appreciate how each texture brought its own uniqueness to my locs. I also embraced the "no retwist" look. While some may prefer a sleek, neat appearance, I found that the natural, freeform style suited me best.
Exploring New Styles and Colors
Along the way, I experimented with different styles, including Marley twists, barrels, two-strand twists, and faux locs. My favorite by far were the faux locs—they gave me a look that felt effortlessly chic. On the other hand, my least favorite was the two-strand twists. I couldn’t help but laugh at how much I looked like Cynthia from Rugrats!
I'm now considering adding color to my locs, something that excites me as I think about the possibilities. Color will be a new chapter in my journey, and I’m ready for it.
The Perks of Being in the Loc Community
What I’ve loved most about this journey isn’t just the hair—it’s the community. There’s a bond among people with locs that’s hard to describe. Through my loc journey, I’ve met some of the most diverse, thoughtful, and creative people. We’re all deep thinkers and wanderers, and the conversations and connections I've made have been nothing short of inspiring. I’ve gained credibility in the loc community, and people know that I’ve been doing this for a while.
Feeling More in Tune with Nature
I joke that having locs makes me feel more “earthy,” like I’m more connected to trees and grass. But in all honesty, there’s something about the look and feel of locs that makes you appreciate nature more deeply. For me, it’s a way of embracing simplicity and authenticity.
The Original Curiosity That Led Me to Locs
When I first considered locs, it wasn’t because I was trying to match a particular lifestyle—it was pure curiosity. I was fascinated by the process and wanted to see where the journey would take me. Now, looking back, I can honestly say that choosing locs was one of the best decisions I’ve made for my hair.
A Newfound Passion for Locs
Locs have quickly become one of my favorite skills. They’re easy to maintain, fast to style, and incredibly inspiring. I’ve discovered that they give me a sense of confidence and authenticity that I can’t find with any other hairstyle.
The Shifting Target Audience
Over time, my target audience has shifted. I now find myself surrounded by like-minded individuals who may identify as tree-huggers, conspiracy theorists, or people who just embrace a down-to-earth lifestyle (no offense intended, I love you all!). They are people who understand the deeper connection to self and nature, and our shared journey brings us closer together.
Encouraging Others to Join the Loc Community
One of my goals now is to encourage others to join the loc community, including my family and friends. It’s a community that embraces individuality and authenticity, and I want others to experience the growth and empowerment I’ve gained from this journey.
How People Perceive Me with Locs
I often get playfully categorized as someone who might speak to their crystals when people see me with my locs. While that’s not the case for me, I fully respect those who do embrace that connection. It’s just a reminder of how locs can be seen as a symbol of spirituality and individuality, and that’s one of the things I love most about this journey. So I ask: What comes to mind when you see someone with beautiful, unique locs?
Conclusion: Embrace the Journey
The journey with locs is not always easy, but it’s always rewarding. With every phase, whether it's feeling insecure or discovering a new style, there’s growth. This journey has taught me to embrace my hair, my texture, and the community that comes with it. Locs are more than just a hairstyle—they’re a symbol of personal growth, confidence, and authenticity. So, if you’re thinking about starting your own loc journey, I encourage you to take the leap and embrace the beauty in the process.
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