Last week, I straight buzzed my head and was completely bald. I’ve cut my hair pretty short before, but I felt it was the right time to go all the way. Going bald is the start of a few fear facing challenges I hope to try out in the coming weeks.

The genetics on both of my parents’ side does not look good for my hair’s future. Because of this, I’ve expected to lose my hair any day. For a long time, I’ve made jokes about going bald soon as a feign attempt to confidently address my looming future. With the amount of advertising and marketing for hair care and hair loss solutions, I think it’s safe to say that a lot of men share this fear of hair loss.

Leading up to this trial, I was considering other options for what to do. After a few moments of thinking, I realized that hesitation was the exact reason I needed to commit and do it.

I was shocked how different the reality was after the cut. Not only was reception not negative, I actually got some major compliments. Almost immediately afterward, I took a picture and put it on a Snapchat story. I was surprised by the positive comments I had gotten from a broad range of people.

The most difficult thing I’ve had to work with is keeping my head out of the sun! With camping this weekend for the holiday, I was trying to keep my bare head in the shade. Luckily, I played my cards right and came out unburnt.

I’m not sure how long I will keep it going. I might let it grow back out, but also may leave it cut for the summer. The lack of hair helps keep my head cool, which is a definite plus.