I admit it- I am a Shark Tank fan. One episode I watched two women in the beauty industry pitch their product: Controlled Chaos- It gives those with curly hair a softer curl, controls frizz without the stiff product feel. They were passionate, real, fun, and a bit chaotic- they eventually got a deal. I loved the founders and product name and can totally relate (way beyond my hair!). I too can be chaotic and am sure you can too.
As for my hair, it is basically curly when cut properly, yet most of the time I blow dry the curl out. I do not enjoy this chore at all (even when trying some mindful drying!) Why, you might wonder do I participate in this hot, annoying ritual? To look a bit tidier and more professional, especially when I speak. I was raised with a more conservative look- neat and controlled. Hmmm, this sounds really nuts to me as I write this.
Well, times have changed. I am now committed to going curly- apply product, shake, and go. I will even get my haircut to maximize my curls. I have included a selfie (not my best.) You might be wondering where I am going with this blog and what this has to do with stress management and calm living. Okay, here goes…
Control does not work
It creates rigidity just like a sticky and unnatural hair product designed to make hair behave.
Chaos can be fun when it doesn’t take over
Chaos can look natural and playful. I have been trying (not too successfully) to behave- to keep some reserved air about me- after all, I teach calm living- right? Boy,that too sounds lame.
This is why Controlled Chaos appealed to me. It is the perfect combo. Control without the edge, without the rigidity, without forcing- It is natural and relaxed, mixed in with some play .It is both anchored and free.
You do not need curly hair to relate to this. Take a look at how you show up to life. Are you showing up as-is, or are you running your life from a place perfection and frustration. This is much of what underlies stress. Fighting who we are.
Yes, I am still in my Inciting a Riot phase of life. I will be a bit curlier, but know if I feel like it I can choose to style my hair (I am beginning to sound like a Barbie commercial- curly Barbie, dressy Barbie- Oy.)
Now it’s your turn
I hope you can come along and put a bit of Controlled Chaos in your day. For those of you who love the chaos, go ahead- after all calm living is not about being this Zen flower. It is more about learning how to mix the two- tame your chaos, don’t get rid of it.
For now, notice where you are trying to stay socially acceptable or feel embarrassed when you try something a bit out of your comfort zone. What stops you?
I would love to hear from you. Leave a comment if you would like.
P.S. More curls to come after my next haircut and yes, I did order the product!
