Issue link: https://www.ahpindiestylist.com/i/1421270
N ot a m e m b e r ? J o i n at a s so c iate d h a i rp rofe s sio n a ls .c o m 117 2. Don't fall into a rut. In the beauty industry, we are all creatives. This means we need intellectual and visual stimulation to keep us motivated and on track. Without these elements, we can become bored and disengaged— which can be stressful and exhausting. It's easy to fall into a routine that often results in getting stuck in a rut, which has a negative impact on us—and our clients. 3. Let clients inspire you. I find inspiration in every client I work with, because I am fascinated by how just a simple change to the angle of a cut can change a person's look. Likewise, I'm inspired by how minor variations in shades and colors can be so striking. I am inspired by my need to give my clients a great result and a memorable and positive experience. I am further inspired to push myself to improve and become better each day, because I am trusted and relied upon by my clients. Their confidence humbles me and motivates me to exceed their expectations. 4. Find inspiration in salon newbies. Along with finding inspiration in my clients, I am inspired by the many students I've been blessed to speak with. I deeply enjoy encouraging them and sharing this wonderful industry. I love discussing how they can have a great life through hairdressing. 5. Be inspired by the success of others. I am equally inspired by the successes of many professionals I've been blessed to meet—from the junior stylist who's excited to start their career to polished members of my artistic team who message me with incredible photos of their work. I especially love it when someone comes to me with a technique they have mastered or a new shade they have cultivated for a client. Feeling their pride of success is exciting to me. 6. Slow down. I've learned I really need to slow down and take in everything around me to become inspired. I now make sure to take note of the young stylist who has just moved into their first salon. I also stop and look at the work of those who have been shoulder to shoulder with me for years working on their clients. I realize that each person brings their own gifts, and taking time to appreciate what's happening right under my nose is inspiring. 7. Be present. Just for today, tell each person who sits in your chair that you're excited to do their hair. Making this statement aloud will likely trigger you to deliver an inspired performance as a stylist. On the same note, make sure to tell others when they inspire you. This can be impactful for you as well as for them. Like everything else, stating it aloud can be powerful. Inspiration comes from many different places: our clients, our coworkers, the media, and a variety of other avenues. As stylists, we entered this business because we wanted to inspire others with our creativity. We owe it to ourselves to find our own inspiration so we can move forward in a fun, exciting, successful manner—for ourselves and our clients. It's easy to fall into a routine that often results in us getting stuck in a rut, which has a negative impact on us—and our clients.