Why I'm retiring as a Hairstylist after 17 years...
Being an independent salon owner has been a journey filled with highs & lows, triumphs & struggles. I want to open up & share my truth, to be vulnerable & honest about the challenges I've faced while running my salon from home.
Financial security is a crucial aspect of any business & unfortunately, for many independent salon owners like myself, it can be a constant source of imbalance. Despite my best efforts to set up my business with clear boundaries, essential tools, ongoing education & a thorough consultation process, I have found myself & my business suffering to operate at its full potential. The financial aspects of running a salon, such as managing overhead costs, fluctuating income & staying competitive in a saturated market, have proven to be formidable obstacles.
The beauty industry, as glamorous & enchanting as it may appear, can be both exhilarating & exhausting. However, as time has passed, I have realized that my passion & purpose no longer align with the daily grind of slaying behind the chair. While it's a difficult admission to make, it is essential for my own growth & well-being.
In sharing my truth, I recognize that my experience is not unique. Many hairstylists face similar challenges & ultimately decide to leave the industry OR deeply passionate & striving.
Here are the top five reasons why I choose to step away from behind the chair.
1. Physical & Mental Exhaustion:
The demanding nature of the job, long hours on your feet & constant focus on meeting clients' expectations can take a toll on both the body & mind. Burnout becomes a real & pressing concern. I'm Beauty Business Burnout over it! [Yet aware that burnout occurs in many workplaces. Not always greener on the other side] I'm a Sheariously awesome secret keeper yet in time....it's energydraining being a Hairapist. I feel I'm masking so much & on auto-repeat. Becoming Independent, I find more deep & open conversations emgery. I pride myself having safe aura engery, I love that about myself as I'm honored for people to have a sense of belonging...yet, it's completely draining.
I'm sore & that comes with the career.
2. Financial Uncertainty:
Irregular income, high overhead costs & the need to constantly attract & retain clients can lead to financial stress & insecurity. It can be challenging to find stability & predictability in earnings. I DESIRE SECURITY at this point in life. Benefits, pensions & a consistent income, etc.
I don't want to put blame on our current world financial status of inflation, yet when Guests have to take control & protect their pocket book, luxury services are the first to go & it does effect Beauty Providers income.
To be honest, my fingers are pointed towards myself as I believed I have stunted my growth of gaining new clients & income with my "New Guest Consultation Fee". Even though I am passionate about providing this services as I gain ideal Guests, it has become SLOW & I contemplated numerous times to no longer having it...but I was in a state of unwilling to do the work that I knew how to do [I've built a solid Cliental numerous times as Guests are eb & flow] That is when I knew, it was time to carry on to new adventures & willingness.
3. Work-Life Balance:
I LOVED the concept of Best of Both Worlds. Sheariously truly provided!
The beauty industry often requires flexibility in scheduling, which can make it challenging to maintain a healthy work-life balance. Long hours, weekends & evenings spent working can strain personal relationships & limit time for self-care & other interests. I am done working late; sacrificing time with my family & missing out on my Sons after school activities. I truly am going to miss aspects of freedom & flexibility Sheariously has provided me...making my own schedule, blocking time off without asking & being my own SHE-EO. There are perks but sometimes perks no longer provide security. I've been an unbalanced Libra for too long!
4. Changing Priorities & Interests:
As individuals evolve, my priorities & interests have shifted. Hairstylists may discover new passions or develop a desire for a different lifestyle that no longer aligns with the demands of the industry. Here's my view, I have invested loads of money & time learning about hair & Beauty Business that it's limiting my chance to explore other experiences of life. I feel I am stuck in a box...legit...working from home after 10 years...I have fomo. Now that my Son has become more independent, I have the opportunity to spread my independent adventurous wings & provided more for my family. Working from home has been a blessing & I cherish being able to have this opportunity that fit our family dynamic during that time. FOREVER a Home Salon Advocate!
5. Shit or Get Off The Pot
I feel like a broken record!
Too many conversations over the years of how unsatisfied I am in my career with friends/family. I've become complainy about my career. EW, annoying & so unfair to those who admire the industry! Throughout the years when I get in that low state, my light for the industry dwindles. Still flickering, so I invest in courses to keep striving & better my business...BUT the un-alignment feels still lingered. I've Sheariously tried to the best of my ability to refullfill my passion but my own views & perceptions of some aspects about working in the Beauty Industry no longer serves my well-being.
Acknowledging these reasons & being open about my struggles is crucial to fostering a supportive community within the beauty industry. By sharing my Sheariously experiences, I'm create a space where hairstylists can openly discuss their challenges & explore alternative paths without judgment.
For those of us who have chosen to step away, it doesn't mean that our time in the industry was wasted or insignificant. It simply means that we are embracing new opportunities for growth & fulfillment. I am choosing ME & my well being.
To my fellow hairstylists & HOME SALON OWNERS 🫶, I encourage you to reflect on your own journey & aspirations. Listen to your heart & honor your truth. Remember that your well-being & happiness should always take precedence.
As I move forward on my own path, I am filled with gratitude for the lessons learned & the connections made during my time as a SHE-EO. I cherish the trust my Guests placed in me & I am excited to explore new avenues that align more closely with my evolving passion & purpose.
Let us support one another, regardless of the paths we choose. Together, we can create a community that celebrates personal growth, authenticity & resilience.
With love & vulnerability,
Jami
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