I started utilizing my Instagram account in 2018 after watching stylists on my feed achieve the goals I had always wanted for myself. Since I live and work in a small town of 5,000 people, these goals seemed so out of reach. I was scared to take the risk because the last thing I wanted to do was fail.
Then, I decided I would work toward my goal for six months –– and if nothing came of it, at least I tried. I knew if I didn’t, I would regret it every time I scrolled through my feed. I outlined a daily routine that let me plan for consistency and put in the work to educate myself, perfect techniques and challenge myself creatively with my clients.
Later, In May of 2018, I won a contest with dpHue. I was flown to Los Angeles to get my hair colored by Justin Anderson with Ashley Iaconetti from The Bachelor franchise. I was exposed to a completely different side of the industry — giving me the sign I needed to keep pushing myself as a hairstylist. Throughout the rest of the year, I continued growing my following, watching brands repost my work and was even sent product boxes to try. I couldn’t believe this was actually happening.
After a year of work, I achieved my six-month goal and began setting new goals in 2019. Each time I met one benchmark, I gained more confidence and momentum to keep pushing myself. In July of 2019, I was asked to be on the Behind the Chair team. I was overwhelmed with excitement.
Not even two weeks later, I went through a very unexpected and heartbreaking divorce. This caused me to question everything in my life and I found myself in a position that challenged my confidence and motivation like never before. I constantly had to motivate myself to push through each day. Then, after doing some soul searching, I realized there are things outside of our control in life. I decided to focus my attention on only the things I could control, including my career.
I am so grateful for each client who sat in my chair and the opportunities I received during this difficult time. They inspired me in a way that forever changed my life.
It has been almost three years since I began my journey, and 2020 is a year that has been one-of-a-kind. We all face challenges in today’s industry. However, one thing I have learned is that fear, uncertainty and struggles are inevitable. Still, the upside is that they make us stronger and help us grow.
I want to encourage everyone to keep going and not allow the struggles to bring you down. It does not matter who you are or where you come from. If you set your mind on achieving your goals and consistently making progress, you will do it.
