Sly Bald Guys Forum

Discussions About Being Bald => Reactions to being Bald => Topic started by: Smoothy on August 02, 2012, 02:29:01 PM

Title: Misconceptions
Post by: Smoothy on August 02, 2012, 02:29:01 PM
Originally, I included this issue with my introduction post, but then I realized that there was a more appropriate place to discuss this topic in this corner of the forum...

Soo... It's about the 3rd or 4rth time I've gone "sly", but I could never stick with it due to that self-conscious feeling I get when people spectate.

It's not so much my own personal discontentment with having a bald look. I actually really enjoy it, and feel that I carry a bald head quite nicely. My worries derive more so from the possibility that others will affiliate me with some racist, neo-nazi affiliation.

The first time the notion came about was right after the first time I shaved my head clean, and my mother jokingly stated how I looked like a Klansman. I laughed it off, and it didn't phase me at first, but then came my debut to the rest of the world...

The looks and gestures I've gotten from people are of some that I've never witnessed before. Sometimes, people won't even make eye contact with me, let alone spark up a conversation, or reply to my own small talk initiatives. They'll give me the "stink eye", or just grimace in disgust, and look away real quick. Thankfully, no one has verbally/physically gone out of their way to confront me, but their initial reactions are enough to tell me that they'd might like to.

A friend of mine has even said that I look really intimidating with my new smooth head, and that's not at all what I want to project to others when I'm going about my day. I don't know if it's just that they're intimidated, and not so much "offended", or maybe both. Nonetheless, I could do without the sketchy reactions.

It's like a double edged sword because, on one hand, I'm alleviated that I don't have to be reminded, any further, about my hair loss, every time I look into the mirror, and then, on the other hand, that void is quickly filled with a different stress that people will think I'm some racist skinhead punk.

At times, I'll confide in a hat, since I own quite a few, but there are places where they aren't appropriate, so I'll not wear one, and then I am left at my anxiety's discretion.

I'd like to just brush off people's misconceptions, but it's easier said than done.

I'm not going to go out of my way to prove that I'm a nice guy who isn't racist.

I mean, what I am supposed to do? Get a permanent marker and write "NOT RACIST" on my forehead? Or better yet swing around one of those obnoxious "WE BUY GOLD" signs you see on every corner, and replace it with "I'm balding, that's why I shave my head! NOT RACIST".

People these days....

I live in Florida, and I'm just speculating, but ever since that whole George Zimmerman/Trayvon Martin fiasco went down, I think racial tensions have increased somewhat. Maybe that's a contributing factor? Regardless, it sucks.....




Title: Re: Misconceptions
Post by: Hingatao on August 02, 2012, 03:00:25 PM
Sometimes when I'm out and people look at me without saying anything I wonder if they're thinking "racist" or "neo-Nazi" or something like that. There's not much one can do to change that, though, if they won't talk to you. The best way to deal with it is just move on and continue being yourself.
Title: Re: Misconceptions
Post by: Smoothy on August 02, 2012, 03:21:41 PM
Thanks Hingatao.

It's comforting to know I'm not alone in this.

I do go on with my day. But when there's so much other sh*t on my plate to deal with, like with anyone else, to then have a chip on your shoulder about something as superficial as this linked to something as serious a racism... SMDH



 
Title: Re: Misconceptions
Post by: Frontier Guy on August 02, 2012, 04:18:59 PM
I dunno ... I must be clueless because I've never noticed anyone staring at my bald head (though it is a thing of beauty). And I'm a Central Floridian as well, so I should be equally exposed to the Trayvon Martin issues if there are any.

Someone a week or two ago posted about being perceived as "aggressive" which I don't think many of the other fellows here were able to identify with.

Then again, people can stare all they want - I either don't notice them, don't care, or decide to take it as a compliment.

Life is too short to worry about the lives of the ignorant.
Title: Re: Misconceptions
Post by: Laser Man on August 02, 2012, 09:16:01 PM
Other guys have posted questions and concerns about being labeled racist / skinhead / neo-nazi because of their shaved heads.  Personally I was told I looked very intimidating after I began shaving.  My advice is 1) be polite and considerate, e.g, hold the door for people, smile, and 2) ignore people who comment about your shaved head.  The first part of the advice helps to dispel the impression that you have a grudge against society. The second part of the advice is to help you realize that no matter what you do, someone may misjudge you.  That's where prejudice comes from: the presumption that your looks mean you are something you aren't. 

I don't know much about where you live, but I can assure you there are mant places where the sly look is very accepted and in no way connotes any negative stereotype.
Title: Re: Misconceptions
Post by: Mikekoz13 on August 03, 2012, 04:41:04 AM
This is simple to me Dude. I have a one line statement that I use all the time that really explains a lot of the unexplainable:

"The world is full of dumb asses.... don't let a dumb ass ruin your day."
Title: Re: Misconceptions
Post by: Hingatao on August 03, 2012, 08:47:01 AM
This is simple to me Dude. I have a one line statement that I use all the time that really explains a lot of the unexplainable:

"The world is full of dumb asses.... don't let a dumb ass ruin your day."

Well said.
Title: Re: Misconceptions
Post by: schro on August 03, 2012, 09:12:05 AM
The only time there's ever been a bald stereotype thrown my way was during jury duty. I was one of the 12 on the bench, and the prosecuting used his "privledge" to exclude me without explanation. I shared this with a buddy of mine (an attorney), and he said that attorneys often view guys that shave their heads as "free thinkers"....not sure how to take that one.

Anyway, it would have served the prosecutor well to keep me on the jury. The case had something to do with property rights & calculation of taxes, something I know quite a bit about. I still wonder how that case was resolved.
Title: Re: Misconceptions
Post by: JasonR on August 03, 2012, 10:51:46 AM
I don't think bald, these days, shouts neo nazi or racist.

I think it has more to do with body language. If you walk around frowning, or if you're generally not very social, people may perceive you as unfriendly because of your body language. Seriously!

Try to smile, smile before you walk in somewhere, and try to interact with people more. I'm reading a book, The Charisma myth, that is extremely beneficial in this area. Give it a shot!
Title: Re: Misconceptions
Post by: failed_butchery on August 03, 2012, 06:52:14 PM
Just roll with it man, If people judge you solely on you being bald, then they dont deserve the time of day. Just smile and kill em with kindness! Ive never met a polite racist before.
Title: Re: Misconceptions
Post by: Beardman on August 03, 2012, 07:14:20 PM
A polite racist would be something to behold...

"Excuse me sir, why don't you get on the next plane back to where you came from? We have enough of your kind here! Thank you and have a nice day"

That would just leave anyone dumbfounded!
Title: Re: Misconceptions
Post by: Smoothy on August 04, 2012, 01:56:23 AM
I dunno ... I must be clueless because I've never noticed anyone staring at my bald head (though it is a thing of beauty). And I'm a Central Floridian as well, so I should be equally exposed to the Trayvon Martin issues if there are any.

Someone a week or two ago posted about being perceived as "aggressive" which I don't think many of the other fellows here were able to identify with.

Then again, people can stare all they want - I either don't notice them, don't care, or decide to take it as a compliment.

Life is too short to worry about the lives of the ignorant.

 ;D thanks for your insightful response, FrontierGuy!

I got a chuckle from your statement, "..(though it is a thing of beauty)..".

You're right, life is too short to worry about the ignorance that dwells among us.

I guess, I'm just in a really awkward stage with it, being such a sly newb, and being so attached to my hair for so long.
Title: Re: Misconceptions
Post by: Smoothy on August 04, 2012, 02:36:11 AM
Other guys have posted questions and concerns about being labeled racist / skinhead / neo-nazi because of their shaved heads.  Personally I was told I looked very intimidating after I began shaving.  My advice is 1) be polite and considerate, e.g, hold the door for people, smile, and 2) ignore people who comment about your shaved head.  The first part of the advice helps to dispel the impression that you have a grudge against society. The second part of the advice is to help you realize that no matter what you do, someone may misjudge you.  That's where prejudice comes from: the presumption that your looks mean you are something you aren't.  

I don't know much about where you live, but I can assure you there are mant places where the sly look is very accepted and in no way connotes any negative stereotype.


Thanks for the tips!

I've always been respectful and polite towards others, but like I told FrontierGuy, I am in some awkward stage with it... maybe it might be showing on my face too much, and being spelled out as a sign of slight hostility... I'm not as confident with it as I would like to be around others.

I also think somewhere inside, there lies some resentment, and sentiment of loss, as in my losing the uphill battle with hair-loss. Maybe, it's showing through to some degree, as well, alongside my path to gaining sly-confidence.

I've read up on the 30 day rule, so by the time I that point, when my comfort level is at it's peak, these issues will subside to a lame foggy before.

I stay in South Florida, by the way.

Title: Re: Misconceptions
Post by: Smoothy on August 04, 2012, 02:46:21 AM
This is simple to me Dude. I have a one line statement that I use all the time that really explains a lot of the unexplainable:

"The world is full of dumb asses.... don't let a dumb ass ruin your day."

Well said.

I second that!
Title: Re: Misconceptions
Post by: Frontier Guy on August 04, 2012, 03:08:05 AM
I've read up on the 30 day rule, so by the time I that point, when my comfort level is at it's peak, these issues will subside to a lame foggy before.

Smoothy, don't be disappointed if your surge in bald-confidence arrives sooner than 30 days; I expect it will.

Now that you've shaved you are going to notice just how many other guys in the world have the same smooth hairstyle. It's impressive (and reassuring if you need it).

Yesterday I was on the staff bus which was filled with mostly college-age kids (thus, approximately your age). Three of them were sporting the slick dome and looked awesome as I'm sure you do as well.

Give yourself the time to adjust, focus not on the loss of hair but on the freedom you've gained and the cojones you've demonstrated to take charge of your destiny.

Cheers to you!
Title: Re: Misconceptions
Post by: Smoothy on August 04, 2012, 03:13:12 AM
The only time there's ever been a bald stereotype thrown my way was during jury duty. I was one of the 12 on the bench, and the prosecuting used his "privledge" to exclude me without explanation. I shared this with a buddy of mine (an attorney), and he said that attorneys often view guys that shave their heads as "free thinkers"....not sure how to take that one.

Anyway, it would have served the prosecutor well to keep me on the jury. The case had something to do with property rights & calculation of taxes, something I know quite a bit about. I still wonder how that case was resolved.


I guess you could interpret "free thinker" in a few different lights. Maybe in the legal system, they don't favor those who don't follow a crowd, especially one swayed by authority. The risks of a hung jury wasn't worth having a sly guy in their presence...

With that said, I find it less surprising, and unfortunate, for the court of law, or just the entire 'judicial" branch of government for that matter, to hold others with such high prejudice.

Thanks for sharing.

For the first time, I ponder the possibly that being sly might even negatively effect my chances for future employment.... hmmm...
Title: Re: Misconceptions
Post by: Smoothy on August 04, 2012, 03:27:03 AM
I don't think bald, these days, shouts neo nazi or racist.

I think it has more to do with body language. If you walk around frowning, or if you're generally not very social, people may perceive you as unfriendly because of your body language. Seriously!

Try to smile, smile before you walk in somewhere, and try to interact with people more. I'm reading a book, The Charisma myth, that is extremely beneficial in this area. Give it a shot!

Dually noted!

Thanks man! I like a good read, so thanks for the intensive to check out that book! I defiantly will.

It sounds familiar too, I think it was referenced in, "Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can't Stop Talking"(A great read too btw!!).

I am a bit of a loner, but it was easier to get away with when I had hair because people perceived it as me just being an approachable, sweet, shy kid (when I had hair, I was always mistaken for being way younger than I was. Being sly, the opposite reigns true.)
Title: Re: Misconceptions
Post by: Smoothy on August 04, 2012, 03:28:04 AM
This is simple to me Dude. I have a one line statement that I use all the time that really explains a lot of the unexplainable:

"The world is full of dumb asses.... don't let a dumb ass ruin your day."

Well said.

I second that!

Thanks guy
Title: Re: Misconceptions
Post by: Smoothy on August 04, 2012, 03:34:52 AM
Just roll with it man, If people judge you solely on you being bald, then they dont deserve the time of day. Just smile and kill em with kindness! Ive never met a polite racist before.

Speakn truth, bro!

 O0
Title: Re: Misconceptions
Post by: Smoothy on August 04, 2012, 03:37:03 AM
A polite racist would be something to behold...

"Excuse me sir, why don't you get on the next plane back to where you came from? We have enough of your kind here! Thank you and have a nice day"

That would just leave anyone dumbfounded!

lol!

I could that being part of a some bid on a sketch comedy show!
Title: Re: Misconceptions
Post by: Smoothy on August 04, 2012, 03:41:57 AM
I've read up on the 30 day rule, so by the time I that point, when my comfort level is at it's peak, these issues will subside to a lame foggy before.

Smoothy, don't be disappointed if your surge in bald-confidence arrives sooner than 30 days; I expect it will.

Now that you've shaved you are going to notice just how many other guys in the world have the same smooth hairstyle. It's impressive (and reassuring if you need it).

Yesterday I was on the staff bus which was filled with mostly college-age kids (thus, approximately your age). Three of them were sporting the slick dome and looked awesome as I'm sure you do as well.

Give yourself the time to adjust, focus not on the loss of hair but on the freedom you've gained and the cojones you've demonstrated to take charge of your destiny.

Cheers to you!

Very well!

I anticipate the change!  ;D

It's funny you say that because I have noticed more guys sportn the sly method, since taking charge!

reassuring indeed.
Title: Re: Misconceptions
Post by: TxTa2Guy on August 12, 2012, 05:42:46 PM
I recently met a young guy who belongs to a group of which I am an old member. The young guy told me that he lives in the neighborhood in which I used to live and saw me almost every day when I walked my dog. I moved away about five years before this conversation, so the guy was about 15 when I moved. I asked where he lived and said that I didn't remember seeing him around then but that a lot of time had passed and that he had grown up and matured.

He said, "yeah that is true. Did you know that you scared the sh*t out of everybody in the neighborhood?"

I laughed my posterior off for a few minutes and then told him [cleaned up quite a bit, removing political and social epithets!] that I was an aging peacenick and that the folks in that neighborhood and I had little in common and that was why I moved!

He said he understood, telling me (as I knew) that my tattoos were what frightened them. So I asked him how he thought they would like my new look, with a huge lion tattoo on the back of my shaved head. He said that some of them had seen me around since I moved and they were still afraid of me.

So I told him, "I am glad to hear that. Now I know they won't all follow me to my new, liberal, tolerant neighborhood, wanting to live next to me!"

LIFE IS GOOD!
Title: Re: Misconceptions
Post by: Beardman on August 13, 2012, 04:02:06 AM
I recently met a young guy who belongs to a group of which I am an old member. The young guy told me that he lives in the neighborhood in which I used to live and saw me almost every day when I walked my dog. I moved away about five years before this conversation, so the guy was about 15 when I moved. I asked where he lived and said that I didn't remember seeing him around then but that a lot of time had passed and that he had grown up and matured.

He said, "yeah that is true. Did you know that you scared the sh*t out of everybody in the neighborhood?"

I laughed my posterior off for a few minutes and then told him [cleaned up quite a bit, removing political and social epithets!] that I was an aging peacenick and that the folks in that neighborhood and I had little in common and that was why I moved!

He said he understood, telling me (as I knew) that my tattoos were what frightened them. So I asked him how he thought they would like my new look, with a huge lion tattoo on the back of my shaved head. He said that some of them had seen me around since I moved and they were still afraid of me.

So I told him, "I am glad to hear that. Now I know they won't all follow me to my new, liberal, tolerant neighborhood, wanting to live next to me!"

LIFE IS GOOD!

Haha, very interesting story! I really do like that head tattoo!
Title: Re: Misconceptions
Post by: balddaniel on August 13, 2012, 09:36:08 AM
Smoothy,

I feel for you.  I once told that when you can see my tattoos and the combination of a bald head I could be intimidating.  I havn't had that problem for a long long time.  I agree with the guys just smile and shake it off.  I think you look great sly.  As for a new job.  I just moved to Melboure, FL from CA and applied for a job at University of Central Florida I had my second interview last week and they have said that I am their top canidate.  They sent my name to HR for approval.  I hope to start work this week.  Keep you head up and just be yourself.  Everything will be just fine. 

Daniel
Title: Re: Misconceptions
Post by: Beardman on August 14, 2012, 01:13:34 AM
I just moved to Melboure, FL from CA and applied for a job at University of Central Florida I had my second interview last week and they have said that I am their top canidate.  They sent my name to HR for approval.  I hope to start work this week.  Keep you head up and just be yourself.  Everything will be just fine. 

Daniel

Good work mate!
Title: Re: Misconceptions
Post by: Slyfive on October 08, 2012, 04:42:18 PM
Good luck on the job!
Title: Re: Misconceptions
Post by: thedvsmonkey on October 09, 2012, 08:52:32 PM
Well, I have had hair down between my shoulder blades, a smooth melon, and everything in between.  I have multiple piercings, multiple tattoos, etc.  I have a friend that I actually work for from time to time in his UPS Store when he needs help and he once told me that every time he sees me I look scarier and scarier but I'm the nicest person he's ever met.  And I posted in another thread that at first glance at my appearance a nun gasped and crossed herself.  I suppose my point here is that it doesn't seem to really matter what you look like because people are going to judge you based on their own prejudices and there isn't much you can do about it.  Once anyone takes the time to get to know me they realize very quickly that I'm an intelligent individual and I'm very kind, polite, and even funny.  For those that don't take the time to get to know me . . . their loss.  Own your look and your personal power and walk with your chin up and a smile that'll knock em dead!
Title: Re: Misconceptions
Post by: Slyfive on October 10, 2012, 01:44:18 AM
Awesome words Thedvsmonkey
Title: Re: Misconceptions
Post by: Bucksfan on October 10, 2012, 06:52:13 AM
A smile, politeness and a little small talk goes a long way.  As does the clothing you wear.  I find myself dressing "up" a little more than I used to - a polo or button down shirt rather than a t-shirt, etc...  In the professional arena, I tend to wear a jacket / blazer or suit a little more often than I used to. 

The reality is that there are people out there that will perceive your shaved head as an aggressive statement because of something that they have seen or experienced in their past.  This is not your issue. 

I was self-conscious about the possibility of my shaved head causing others to mis-perceive me for about my first week or two - then those thoughts vanished and I simply don't think about it anymore. 

Bald heads have gone almost mainstream now - still a little different, but certainly not associated with the stigma of racism / neo-nazi stuff anymore in my opinion.  (of course, that may vary depending on the part of the world you are living in).  I am seeing many more shaved heads on the owners / key managers of businesses these days as well (those are the people whom you will be approaching for jobs - so that should give you confidence!).

Congrats Daniel! 
Title: Re: Misconceptions
Post by: Mr Jules on October 10, 2012, 01:34:00 PM
but I could never stick with it due to that self-conscious feeling I get when people spectate.

What makes you think people are spectating ?

I assume that people are less interested in my appearance than I think. Otherwise, I'd be flattering myself. And self praise is no praise.

Just enjoy being bald  :)
Title: Re: Misconceptions
Post by: clarinetguy on October 14, 2012, 07:44:21 PM
Bucksfan I couldn't agree more. As someone who wears a suit and tie to work daily the shaved head works with it well.  Enjoy your look!
Title: Re: Misconceptions
Post by: Baldstu on October 15, 2012, 01:37:44 AM
Its not what folk wear but the interact with people with kindness and respect . You get soem right AHs in a suit but gentleman wearing braces jeans and boots . I m not afrad of anyone , treat all beings with respect and respect will be returned
Title: Re: Misconceptions
Post by: theman on October 18, 2012, 01:24:25 PM
Its not what folk wear but the interact with people with kindness and respect . You get soem right AHs in a suit but gentleman wearing braces jeans and boots . I m not afrad of anyone , treat all beings with respect and respect will be returned
  How very TRUE.  Sorry I missed this , but you are who you are and "  I always treat others with respect, but when they treat me differently !  ;) O:O  Not wise. 
Title: Re: Misconceptions
Post by: Rourkesdrift on October 21, 2012, 11:16:48 AM
People's reactions to me are that I am a thug...always thoroughly searched at soccer matches...but I think this is because I am stocky build but quite short...sure when I am a lot older and can grow a white/grey goatee then I will get this less. Always think if I was skinny and not broad shouldered the reaction maybe different. The younger you are the more people will assume you have shaved your head solely out of choice and all that their pre conceptions tell them about that are "aggressive person". But who cares, your behaviour and personality should soon stop any wrong assumptions.
Title: Re: Misconceptions
Post by: Slyfive on October 24, 2012, 03:23:12 PM
I often get this too, I'm 6ft and heavily tattooed... I'm also a pacifist and a friendly guy, but unfortunately preconceptions are harder to kill than a phoenix, they just keep flaring up again.
Title: Re: Misconceptions
Post by: Beardman on October 26, 2012, 09:41:47 PM
I noticed a couple of days ago as I was hurrying around my capital city that the people seemed to move out of my way when I was coming towards them (Side note: As I am writing this "Get Wise" By The Deloreans, just started playing on shuffle... bit freaky... good song Mat  O0 ), but I prefer to notice the positive reactions, like the old guy that walked past me with either a couple of days growth or a zero buzz and gave me that knowing smile  O0
Title: Re: Misconceptions
Post by: Slyfive on November 04, 2012, 06:33:44 PM
I noticed a couple of days ago as I was hurrying around my capital city that the people seemed to move out of my way when I was coming towards them (Side note: As I am writing this "Get Wise" By The Deloreans, just started playing on shuffle... bit freaky... good song Mat  O0 ), but I prefer to notice the positive reactions, like the old guy that walked past me with either a couple of days growth or a zero buzz and gave me that knowing smile  O0

Good to know I'm on rotation! I get that a lot, but I give everyone a big smile just in case!
Title: Re: Misconceptions
Post by: CowtownBaldie on November 09, 2012, 08:45:28 PM
I never an concerned about what people think about my sly look. If they are intimidated or think I am a thug or Nazi, that is their problem. I treat all people with respect and the way I would like to be treated...unless the disrespect me and then I can get a little nasty. If you are polite and nice to folks, they will see you are not a bad person. Funny how first impressions are usually so wrong. I love metal music and go to metal concerts where people can look very intimidating...these people are some of the nicest folks you will ever meet. So I guess what I am trying to say is folks shouldn't judge a book by its cover.

Carry your self well, polite and smile, this will help in how people react to you. Be proud of being sly!
Title: Re: Misconceptions
Post by: Beardman on November 09, 2012, 09:06:57 PM
I never an concerned about what people think about my sly look. If they are intimidated or think I am a thug or Nazi, that is their problem. I treat all people with respect and the way I would like to be treated...unless the disrespect me and then I can get a little nasty. If you are polite and nice to folks, they will see you are not a bad person. Funny how first impressions are usually so wrong. I love metal music and go to metal concerts where people can look very intimidating...these people are some of the nicest folks you will ever meet. So I guess what I am trying to say is folks shouldn't judge a book by its cover.

Carry your self well, polite and smile, this will help in how people react to you. Be proud of being sly!


Very well put mate. I also love metal, and couldn't agree more... almost every time I walk out of a metal show I've made a new friend. But yet everyone seems to think of us as this scary intimidating cult society... I always find a little bit humourous. But when it comes down to it metal is a brother/sisterhood, just the same as the community we have built here.
Title: Re: Misconceptions
Post by: Smoothy on November 11, 2012, 09:46:52 PM
I recently met a young guy who belongs to a group of which I am an old member. The young guy told me that he lives in the neighborhood in which I used to live and saw me almost every day when I walked my dog. I moved away about five years before this conversation, so the guy was about 15 when I moved. I asked where he lived and said that I didn't remember seeing him around then but that a lot of time had passed and that he had grown up and matured.

He said, "yeah that is true. Did you know that you scared the sh*t out of everybody in the neighborhood?"

I laughed my posterior off for a few minutes and then told him [cleaned up quite a bit, removing political and social epithets!] that I was an aging peacenick and that the folks in that neighborhood and I had little in common and that was why I moved!

He said he understood, telling me (as I knew) that my tattoos were what frightened them. So I asked him how he thought they would like my new look, with a huge lion tattoo on the back of my shaved head. He said that some of them had seen me around since I moved and they were still afraid of me.

So I told him, "I am glad to hear that. Now I know they won't all follow me to my new, liberal, tolerant neighborhood, wanting to live next to me!"

LIFE IS GOOD!

Haha, very interesting story! I really do like that head tattoo!

Nice story, and I agree, that tattoo is pretty bad ass!
Title: Re: Misconceptions
Post by: Smoothy on November 11, 2012, 10:00:08 PM
Smoothy,

I feel for you.  I once told that when you can see my tattoos and the combination of a bald head I could be intimidating.  I havn't had that problem for a long long time.  I agree with the guys just smile and shake it off.  I think you look great sly.  As for a new job.  I just moved to Melboure, FL from CA and applied for a job at University of Central Florida I had my second interview last week and they have said that I am their top canidate.  They sent my name to HR for approval.  I hope to start work this week.  Keep you head up and just be yourself.  Everything will be just fine. 

Daniel

Thanks Daniel. I've learned not to be so considerate of what others think of me, people will always have a reason to dislike you, no matter what. I must say, with smoothness comes maturity.

Hope everything worked out with your new job.
Title: Re: Misconceptions
Post by: Smoothy on November 11, 2012, 10:14:07 PM
Well, I have had hair down between my shoulder blades, a smooth melon, and everything in between.  I have multiple piercings, multiple tattoos, etc.  I have a friend that I actually work for from time to time in his UPS Store when he needs help and he once told me that every time he sees me I look scarier and scarier but I'm the nicest person he's ever met.  And I posted in another thread that at first glance at my appearance a nun gasped and crossed herself.  I suppose my point here is that it doesn't seem to really matter what you look like because people are going to judge you based on their own prejudices and there isn't much you can do about it.  Once anyone takes the time to get to know me they realize very quickly that I'm an intelligent individual and I'm very kind, polite, and even funny.  For those that don't take the time to get to know me . . . their loss.  Own your look and your personal power and walk with your chin up and a smile that'll knock em dead!

Very insightful, I'm at peace knowing I'd figured that out quickly. It is their loss, and if something as superficial as a bald head gets their panties in a bunch, I don't want to find out what makes them infertile. Good riddance! Life is too short.
Title: Re: Misconceptions
Post by: Smoothy on November 11, 2012, 10:18:35 PM
A smile, politeness and a little small talk goes a long way.  As does the clothing you wear.  I find myself dressing "up" a little more than I used to - a polo or button down shirt rather than a t-shirt, etc...  In the professional arena, I tend to wear a jacket / blazer or suit a little more often than I used to. 

The reality is that there are people out there that will perceive your shaved head as an aggressive statement because of something that they have seen or experienced in their past.  This is not your issue. 

I was self-conscious about the possibility of my shaved head causing others to mis-perceive me for about my first week or two - then those thoughts vanished and I simply don't think about it anymore. 

Bald heads have gone almost mainstream now - still a little different, but certainly not associated with the stigma of racism / neo-nazi stuff anymore in my opinion.  (of course, that may vary depending on the part of the world you are living in).  I am seeing many more shaved heads on the owners / key managers of businesses these days as well (those are the people whom you will be approaching for jobs - so that should give you confidence!).

Congrats Daniel! 
Very true, I've noticed more people who rock the smooth look a lot more since going sly.

It's something that empowers me, rather than cower me. That 30 day concept is spot on.
Title: Re: Misconceptions
Post by: Smoothy on November 11, 2012, 10:26:00 PM
but I could never stick with it due to that self-conscious feeling I get when people spectate.

What makes you think people are spectating ?

I assume that people are less interested in my appearance than I think. Otherwise, I'd be flattering myself. And self praise is no praise.

Just enjoy being bald  :)

What made me think they were was how I catch them from the corner of my eye, doe-eyed, as if my head was the headlight of an oncoming truck.

I'd actually used self-praise to my advantage, in the start of my smooth journey, as it helped me consider that they're probably staring at me because I look good  O:O

Now, I really could care less.
Title: Re: Misconceptions
Post by: Smoothy on November 11, 2012, 10:30:02 PM
Its not what folk wear but the interact with people with kindness and respect . You get soem right AHs in a suit but gentleman wearing braces jeans and boots . I m not afrad of anyone , treat all beings with respect and respect will be returned
Title: Re: Misconceptions
Post by: Smoothy on November 11, 2012, 10:32:47 PM
Its not what folk wear but the interact with people with kindness and respect . You get soem right AHs in a suit but gentleman wearing braces jeans and boots . I m not afrad of anyone , treat all beings with respect and respect will be returned

Kindness and respect.

The golden rule has always worked to my benefit.

Title: Re: Misconceptions
Post by: Smoothy on November 11, 2012, 11:10:09 PM
I often get this too, I'm 6ft and heavily tattooed... I'm also a pacifist and a friendly guy, but unfortunately preconceptions are harder to kill than a phoenix, they just keep flaring up again.

I make sure to carry my extinguisher full of " I don't give a f**k", and those flare ups are a thing of the past.
Title: Re: Misconceptions
Post by: Beardman on November 11, 2012, 11:12:09 PM
I often get this too, I'm 6ft and heavily tattooed... I'm also a pacifist and a friendly guy, but unfortunately preconceptions are harder to kill than a phoenix, they just keep flaring up again.

I make sure to carry my extinguisher full of " I don't give a f**k", and those flare ups are a thing of the past.

I love that statement haha! Probably saying of the day for me!
Title: Re: Misconceptions
Post by: Smoothy on November 11, 2012, 11:18:25 PM
I never an concerned about what people think about my sly look. If they are intimidated or think I am a thug or Nazi, that is their problem. I treat all people with respect and the way I would like to be treated...unless the disrespect me and then I can get a little nasty. If you are polite and nice to folks, they will see you are not a bad person. Funny how first impressions are usually so wrong. I love metal music and go to metal concerts where people can look very intimidating...these people are some of the nicest folks you will ever meet. So I guess what I am trying to say is folks shouldn't judge a book by its cover.

Carry your self well, polite and smile, this will help in how people react to you. Be proud of being sly!


Agreed, and agreed. First Impressions are usually misconceptions. Take Ted Bundy... charming charismatic guy, yet serial killer on the side..

I'm totally at peace, and one with my smooth head.
Title: Re: Misconceptions
Post by: theman on November 12, 2012, 11:28:44 AM
People may say and judge me ,  LOL but over many years on this earth I walk tall, such as a good friend taught me to do Buford Pusser, Sheriff in Tenn. !  He wore a wig in the end after being shot up, wife killed.  Pull it up on the net..  Buford and I ate Catfish and Hushpuppies, and also did have a few , but it was in a dry county.  His mother Helen and I wrote back and forth. His father Carl meet him one time.  Longtime ago !  Back in those days , they still wore rugs as they do today.  He was a Marine, a prof. wrestler and tough as nails.  Unh said !