One of the biggest mistakes one can make is thinking society accepts dreadlocks like any other hairstyle. A quick search on the internet results in many articles detailing problems those with dreadlocks encounter with schools, jobs, and society every day.
However, regardless of the horror stories, many are living successfully with dreadlocks. Here are fifteen tips to help you prepare for success with dreadlocks.
- Understand the texture of your hair. Is it coarse, curly, or straight? This information will determine what method to use and how long it may take for your hair to develop dreadlocks. Also gives a better understanding of why your hair may develop dreadlocks differently than others.
- What is your purpose? Are you growing dreadlocks to be fashionable or going natural? For style, a hair stylist can create temporary dreadlocks you can comb out when you want to change hairstyles. Going natural requires patience and time needed to allow hair to develop dreadlocks. Since natural dreadlocks are tough to comb, they are most likely cut if no longer wanted.
- Dreadlocks is a prosperous business. Be careful of hair growth gimmicks, quick-fix methods, or “homemade” products. Ask questions before using anything without a label. Try to find something similar at the drug store or beauty supply store.
- When using the services of a loctician or a hair stylist specializing in dreadlocks, create a budget to pay for many appointments. Repeat visits are necessary for twisting and re-applying holding substance until the dreadlocks mature.
- Become knowledgeable about dreadlocks. Research and read hundreds of informative websites, blogs, and podcasts. Study their purpose in different races and cultures. There are also many videos of various dreadlock developing methods.
- Schedule a consultation with two to three different hairstylists or locticians. Check online ratings and reviews. Make sure you have an idea of the type of dreadlocks you want and bring photos. Also, inspect each location for cleanliness, processes, and service.
- Talk to those who have them. Ask questions about good and bad experiences. Consider asking: What were their reasons? How did they start the process? How long was their hair? Did they use a hairstylist? Is so, do they recommend them? Were there any problems at their place of work? Try to get as personal as they will allow.
- Let friends, relatives, acquaintances, and coworkers aware of your plans for dreadlocks. Find out how they feel about dreadlocks and why. Their answers may give an idea of who to turn to when the world seems to reject your new lifestyle.
- Read the employee handbook and understand the dress code at your place of employment. Get clarification from the Human Resource department before any potential issues or problems.
- Prepare to upgrade your skills, start a business, or another job if your current one cannot accept your dreadlocks. There are many resources readily available such as attending college online, using MOOCs (free online courses), or creating and selling products online to minimize appearances.
- Sometimes growing dreadlocks force you to re-invent yourself. Why not take things to a higher level and step outside your comfort zone? Replace old bad habits with those that help you reach short and long time goals.
- Use exercise, meditation, mindfulness, affirmations, and visualization on a daily basis. Keep your body healthy, mind focused, and maintain a positive attitude. These proven techniques have helped many people overcome insurmountable obstacles.
- Start a journal. Write daily experiences regarding your dreadlocks or life in general. Reflect on what’s written and what action steps to take. Also, get in the habit of creating a list of daily to-do’s, goals (long and short), and personal vision plans.
- Read positive motivational books, listen to self-improving audios, and attend seminars. Limit time wasted on television watching, playing video games, or consistently updating social internet sites.
- Last, but not least, make a list of good reasons why you want dreadlocks. Read it at least three times a day: morning, noon, and night. These reasons should be strong enough to help endure any setbacks or disappointments while staying committed to the vision of having dreadlocks in your life.
Before you leap, understand dreadlocks are a beautiful way to express yourself, but they may come at a price. Prepare yourself.