First week freak out
Dreadlocks Journey Emotional Support
I had similar experiences with family. The best I can offer on that front is to try to hold on to your sense of self and remember that it's YOUR hair, your choice. Your family will either come to accept it or not, and that's on them. Don't be afraid to tell anyone - politely - that their comments are inappropriate, hurtful, or unnecessary. Do your best to not be defensive as, in my personal experience, it only seems to egg on those who feed on drama because they see you getting upset as a 'win'. If you decide to try to educate those close to you in an effort to help them understand your choice, give them all angles of the dread process and emphasize your happiness with your choice.
Also, I work in the health care industry. My supervisor was supportive and open to me starting my natural dreading journey five and a half months ago. I told her that there would be days where my hair would be unruly, and that I would be able to pull it back or dress it up a bit if anyone had issue with it. She was very cool about it. I wouldn't worry about it affecting your job prospects. As long as you're keeping it clean, you should be good to go.
Good luck on your journey! Keep us posted!
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