Nourishing Your Roots: Our Year-End Guide to Self-Care and Success Preparation

By Angeli Marie Shaw

As one of our industry's busiest times falls upon us, now is the perfect time for everyone to focus on nurturing their own roots (and not just the ones on your head!).

So, let’s embark on a transformative journey, exploring some vital realms of self-care, mindset growth and strategies to set the stage for an epic end to 2023 and a triumphant beginning to 2024! Let’s go!

Prioritise Self-Care.

In the whirlwind of hairdressing, it’s easy to forget, even ignore the idea of self-care. So, amid the salon hustle, remember to take short, rejuvenating breaks.

Consider ergonomic adjustments to your workspace, ensuring that you’re not just taking care of your clients but also yourself. Incorporate mindfulness techniques, such as deep breathing or meditation.

Just one minute is enough to lower your blood pressure and heart rate. Stay hydrated by keeping a water bottle in your trolley as poor hydration leads to tiredness! And prepare balanced and nourishing meals, working with your team to ensure that you all get some time to stop and eat. Even the smallest of practices will help, just make the decision to start!

Cultivate a Growth Mindset.

A growth mindset is the foundation of a flourishing career and business. Embrace the challenges presented to you as opportunities for growth and learning. Accept feedback, not as criticism, but as a stepping stone toward improvement. Seek inspiration within your industry by connecting with fellow stylists, booking/attending workshops, and prioritising staying updated with your skills.

Much like your skills, your mind can evolve and adapt too. Embracing a growth mindset not only enhances your expertise but also instils a sense of resilience, enabling you to face any challenge with grace and tenacity. Growth mindsets understand the importance of persistence and determination!

The Power of Saying No.

Saying no is not a sign of weakness; it’s a testament to your self-awareness and respect for your time and energy. Set boundaries. Politely decline tasks or commitments that don’t align with your goals. It’s liberating. By learning to say no to what doesn’t serve you, you make room for what truly matters. You empower yourself to focus on tasks and projects that resonate with your passion.

This can include clients too. How many of us have said yes to a client knowing deep down that we should’ve said no? The salon chair is not just for your clients; treat it like your throne. Guard it wisely, and watch how empowered you become when you say no.

Digital Detox and Mental Rest.

Embracing a digital detox and allowing the mind to breathe amidst the constant hum of notifications and screens can be one of the most transformative acts of selfcare. In this age of relentless connectivity, hairdressers often find solace in the digital realm, staying updated with trends and client communications. However, this continuous exposure can lead to mental fatigue and heightened stress levels.

Recognising the importance of mental rest, we should advocate for intentional breaks from the digital world. A digital detox doesn’t just mean disconnecting; it’s a gateway to reconnecting—with yourself, your surroundings, and the present moment.

This intentional break allows your brain to unwind, reducing stress and enhancing overall well-being. Your mind, much like your clients’ hair, deserves care and attention too!

Emotional Well-being and Stress Management.

It’s crucial to incorporate stress-relieving practices into our daily routines. Start your day with a few minutes of meditation, grounding yourself, even a workout, whatever you’re choosing before the whirlwind of clients and creativity. Journaling can be a great release, providing an outlet for emotions that might otherwise be suppressed.

Additionally, allocating time for hobbies or creative pursuits outside of the salon environment can act as a powerful emotional outlet, fostering a sense of fulfilment and joy. Remember that emotional well-being isn’t just about managing negative emotions; it’s also about cultivating positive ones.

Setting Up for Success in 2024.

As the year draws to a close, reflect on your journey and acknowledge your achievements and the challenges you’ve overcome. Now, set clear, achievable goals for 2024. Consider skill development and network within and beyond the industry because connections often pave unexpected paths!

As you step into 2024, let go of what didn’t serve you in 2023. The start of the year is page 1 of a 365-page book (we all get a bonus page in 2024 being a leap year) so what story are you wanting to write?

In nurturing your roots, I believe you embrace the essence of holistic empowerment, something I’m very passionate about. Your dedication to self-care is not just a ritual; it’s a revolutionary act of self-love.

As you stand on the threshold of a new year, envision the abundance of possibilities. Your goals, like seeds planted in fertile soil, are bound to flourish, just make sure to take care of that one essential thing…. You!

Shine on you amazing human, it’s been a pleasure to serve you in 2023!

Love & Bliss, Angeli

Angeli is a Holistic Empowerment Coach, Mindset Mentor/Trainer and the founder of The Bliss Coach. To work with me in 2024, get in touch by visiting www.theblisscoach.com.au @theblisscoach