Nice story.
I would have guessed you to look are few years older than you state. Bald makes older guys look younger and younger guys look a bit older. Both like it that way.
Welcome to the forum Sam, I'd say you definitely made the right choice. Keep it smooth now!
Hey guys. Thank you all for the kind words. Such support means a lot.
Did you have (or do you now?) have any particular concerns about committing to the Sly Style?
Seeing other people for the first time is the usual one. What are your expectations?
I don't think I really have any large concerns, other than occasionally missing a spot or nicking myself. I trust that I'll get more adept with sightless shaving over time. My main hangup before going through it was that sort of "no turning back" feeling. I don't see the point of going back to the hair now, as I am more confident without it. If anything, the look will encourage me to grow up. Routine helps me stay focused in life so the extra 5-10 minutes a day of grooming--is it still called that?--should help.
My best friend has enough hair on his head for two people and presses me to try the bald fade (I think that's what it's called here) instead of shaving it, but I don't see a big difference and enjoy not needing clippers.
I haven't yet hit the dating scene while sly; I can only imagine that it will go well as long as the lady I'm after is open minded. I figure if I stay smiling, I won't be able to come across as a hardass

Plus my dog said I look great, so there's that.
mrzed: You make a great point, and one that I hadn't thought of. Very nice. Cheers!
Well Sam, this is easy ... (at least, easy for me to write) ...
First, you've got the right attitude since you know your hair is gradually deserting you.
Second, commit to shaving for the "30 day commitment" - that gives you and the world enough time to become accustomed to your new look and know it's the real thing. And it gives you time to become proficient with the new motor skills for head shaving.
Third, those extra minutes of "grooming" time - you will come to treasure that as "me" time when you are focused on being kind to yourself. You're kind and considerate to others ... but how often are you kind and considerate to yourself?
Fourth, for dating - your new confidence will draw partners to you who are open-minded (or fascinated) by Sly Guys. If the gal is put off by superficial appearance, there's not the depth of a possible relationship there for you.
And, although I'm confident this won't happen, worst case is that after 30 days you decide to let your hair grow back (whatever areas are willing to do so). But we've seen it here time and time again ... newly Sly guys say "I'm never going back to hair" AND "Why didn't I go Sly years ago." You'll be one of them. I'm convinced.
Good bullets FG. I am truly confident, and I think moreso because this is my second time around going sly. I'll make sure I'll keep count of my thirty days to be extra sure. Maybe I can get even faster with my blade!
Me time, huh?

That's what I like to hear. When I'm feeling lazy the next time around, those words will be good to keep in mind.
With dating, I think it will be easier already being a sly guy and finding a woman, rather than fighting with the choice to do it when in a relationship and having their reaction be unknown. What I'm saying is, single is a good time to go sly.
Any time is a good time to go sly. People think they have to wait for the perfect time, but later they realize they waited much longer than necessary.
However, I do understand your idea of going on a date sly, you can use it as a quality gauge. If your date gives you a headrub, then give them a 2nd date