new thread
Because of an occupational change about 1 1/2 years ago I was finally able to to start fulfilling my life long dream of having long hair. After a few months I decided to get my ears pierced too, something else I always wanted to do. I thought that this would be considered much more of a "socially radical" move then having long hair, especially for someone in thier 40's like myself. After the year and a half I my hair is just past my shoulders, and I usually wear 2 silver hoop earrings. To date virtually no one has made an adverse comment on my earrings, but ever since I began the "awkward stage I have had comments like "gettin kinda long isn't it?" or when ya getting a hair cut?" My answers are generally no or never, but it amazes me that a man with long hair is still less accepted then a man having pierced ears. I'm not sure what all this means, but I don't plan on changing anything I'm doing
Just thought I'd share this observation.
All right! Another 40+ longhair!
I am in a professional position and also have shoulder+ length. I also sport a single earring, although when I am in the office it is usually a small stud.
The earring got no mention (although my kids thought Dad was cool), but the hair length (especially at the start of the awkward stage) did get one comment from my boss. Nothing major - he's ex-military. My status in the organization has people OK with my appearance as long as my performance and professionalism remains intact. I wear it in a ponytail and usually use a pommade to keep it clean and neat.
I get my hair trimmed (neck and ear hair) every 3-4 months, so when they ask, I give them a date - but never say how much will come off.
Keep going with it. I am sure most people (especially older ones) still equate long hair on men with the "druggies" of the 60's and 70's. If they can't leave their ancient paradigms behind, that is not your problem. Eventually longer hair on men may become as acceptable as the earring.
I'm in the same position, 44 and trying to let it grow while working in a super conservative organization, including the suit and tie expectation. Although I go for a 'trim' once a month, usually just around the ears, the back is now 5" long. I also wear a stud on off hours, but have not had the nerve to wear it to work, although several other professionals in the same age bracket within my company do so. At what point did the ponytail become an option? Earlier this week, I did get a comment from a co-worker about my "long hair", which I just laughed about. My wife and kids have not commented yet, but expect is to happen soon.