I have been reading this board almost everyday for several months, but have not asked for advice or posted much. Anyway, here goes my rant!
1) Work - I was told the other day a while back by my new supervisor (I work for a bank holding company in credit review) that "It doesn't matter how long your hair is but it has to be neat." So I thought "cool." So therefore I've been keeping my hair all "neat" - pulled back in a small pony tail and using some gel to keep everything looking nice. Today, I'm called into his office about a loan I looked at, and then, pointing to the back of his head, he says, "You've got to do something about that." He then goes on to say I probably need to go get a haircut today if possible. I started to ask him if he wanted me to go get castrated at the same time, but I didn't. Anyhow I was a little upset, but did not go get a hair cut. I am going to get a trim (1/2 inch) in a few days, but what am I to do? BTW, my hair has been growing since May 2003, and is very wavy. It's light to medium brown, and I think it is looking great. I would love to post a picture, but I don't have the equipment. It's about 8 or so inches long all over, and the front/sides will only stay pulled back with the gel.
It's like people don't want anybody to be able to do something they can't do. Like mediocrity is good or something. I know a long haired guy isn't common in my field of work, but I bring a lot to the table in ability.
2) I was looking at the top of my head, the other day with a hand held mirror --- The hair at the very crown of my head is thinner than it used to be. I'm only 30! I started freaking out to myself. I've been working to hard and being to patient with growing my hair to let it fall out. I have done several searches for hair regrowth products and they all seem to have too many side effects except Folligrow. Has anyone tried this? I will somehow nip this in the bud before it's too late.
Thanks so much for letting me vent. I know it's just hair, but it is my hair, and I want it long!
Lastly, my handle "Bragi" - the Norse god of poetry, He had runes carved on his tongue... (in case anybody wonders what kind of name that is)
It sounds like you had a Monday to top all Mondays. I went through a situation at work once about my hair (during a previous growth, years ago). I eventually won out and they agreed to let me keep my job and my hair, but I had to keep it ponytailed and down my shirt to hide it the best I could. The best advice I can offer is above all, remain calm and civil, don't tell your boss what a low-life, shallow, son of a ***** he is (even if he really deserves it!), and make whatever offers you can to compromise on styling, just not length.
As for the baldness, I've not encountered it, but I've heard good things about Rogaine. A trip to your doctor right away might be wise, hopefully you can avoid losing time with other remedies that may not be right for you. Just my thought, I don't have much knowledge on that subject.
Good luck.
Ask your supervisor for a written statement of the dress code which governs what clothes you wear and how you look. That must have been written before you were employed and you must have been informed of any changes when they were made.
Chances are that he is just trying to push you around. Resist, politely, and don't cut!
Thinning on top - still a long way to go before baldness appears, and it may not. Try not to have too tight a tie on your ponytail, as that can pullhairs out.
God luck
First of all, don't stress.
I think most employers don't have a leg to stand on considering hair in the workplace, especially if you're an office worker - are there women with long hair where you work? If so, they have no right (in fact it would be discrimination and sexism) to make you change your hair, especially since you've been keeping it neat.
Only get a trim if you think you need it!
As for thinning, it happens to lots of people... and plenty of them still have long hair - friends of mine are balding and still have long hair!
You could also consider other hairstyles - some other styles are more suited to thinner hair. Just check with a stylist.
Hope everything works out ok - I agree you should get a copy of your work dress code! That could be very handy. I've been waiting for my own boss to comment on my hair - it was only an inch long when I started working there. Now it's about 6 and a half or 7.
Let us know how things turn out!
Good luck.
wolfeyes