We were lucky to catch up with Ashlee Dill recently and have shared our conversation below.
Ashlee, we’re so excited for our community to get to know you and learn from your journey and the wisdom you’ve acquired over time. Let’s kick things off with a discussion on self-confidence and self-esteem. How did you develop yours?
My self-esteem development first started off a bit rocky. Growing up, I absolutely hated my curly hair. My confidence dwindled every-time I saw magazines with long straight hair or girls in public school having the “easiest hair” to style, while my hair took hours to wash, detangle, and style through because I had so much of it. Commercials for gadgets with straightened hair, constantly being told my curls looked “unkept”, frizzy, and “nappy”, and even being pressured to get a perm or relaxer just so my hair would look “prettier” weighed down on my self-esteem. I looked in the mirror one day and decided not to listen to what others said anymore, because it didn’t define me or the crown of curls I wear everyday that I was blessed with. I soon learned that hair care is self-care, and despite what others have commented about my hair over the years, it would never again stop me from loving my curls as much as I love myself. I now use my story to encourage others to love the hair they were born with, as it is a crown of beauty. “Curlfidence” is confidence!
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
I am natural hair enthusiast and influencer with a passion for encouraging and inspiring others all over the world that what others may have said about their hair does not define its beauty or your uniqueness. Every strand of hair is unique, just as we are, and I am excited to continue to showcase the love of natural hair through helpful tips, brand collaborations, product reviews, and overall experiences with naturally curly hair!
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Three imperative qualities that impacted me were self-care, patience, and optimism. Self-care can be an extensive but always rewarding part of life. Patience is key on this journey to healthy hair, but I learned that health is better than length! Be optimistic about where your journey may take you.
My advice is to do your research when it comes to taking care of your hair, especially when trying products or allowing others to style your hair. I’d also say positive affirmations in the mirror really go a long way.
Alright so to wrap up, who deserves credit for helping you overcome challenges or build some of the essential skills you’ve needed?
My family has been the most supportive and uplifting individuals when it comes to building upon my confidence that I have already developed over the years. They are wonderful examples of the qualities I deem very important on this journey to success and confidence in my encouragement to others.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justanother.curlygirl?igsh=MTVhb25tbml3amQ4Mw%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
