Last year (hopefully) taught us a lot. From personal lives to professional trajectories, much of the world was forced to adapt and pivot. New ways of working were adopted and some people chose to reprioritize and follow through on long forgotten passion projects. 

As a barber, this is what I’ve learned through my reflections:

• Industries that were once looked at as recession proof must now grow to be pandemic proof. Taking levels of safety for everyone involved to a whole new level. 

• As an artist, there are times to create masterpieces and times where people are coming to you to feel better. Learning how to find balance in this aspect is important. 

The person sitting with you must be happy with the end result, but don’t sell yourself and your soul short by filling your schedule with work that doesn’t set your soul on fire. 

• You can’t help others if you aren’t helping yourself. Part of being a barber is holding space for others. Ensure you are taking care of your mind, body, and spirit first and foremost to allow you to be there for others. 

Do not take on others problems as your own. Often times people just need someone to listen and validate their feelings, rather than trying to fix them. 

• I have always loved that the barbershop is a place where I could be myself and speak freely. If we have learned one thing above all, it’s that everyone has their own perspective and reality, as we all live in different circumstances. 

Having opposing opinions is common and I believe it is healthy to have conversations surrounding them and sharing our perspective to open ourselves and others up to understanding and possibly adopting new ways of thinking. 

At the same time, if someone is not open to listening, what is said will not resonate. Learn when to save your words and energy, as arguments are wasted energy. Sometimes you have to agree to disagree, respectfully. 

• Respect is not earned, it is a basic human right everyone is entitled to. If you continuously feel disrespected by another, exercise your right to fire people from your life, no justification needed. This is called setting boundaries!

• Healthy support in your environment will help you achieve your best potential. Learning how to ask for support is crucial. No one can help you if they don’t know you are struggling. 

Normalize taking mental health days and resting when you feel like you’re running on empty.