The Journey of Embracing True Beauty: Fatima's Hair Story

In an episode of the MindShift Power Podcast, we had the privilege of diving into the personal journey of our very own host, Fatima Bey. This episode is a raw and honest conversation about embracing natural beauty and authenticity.

From Relaxer to Natural Hair

Fatima shares her story of following societal norms and using relaxers to straighten her hair. "Society said, hey, black girl, straighten your hair. Your natural hair isn't beautiful enough," she recalls. For years, she admired curly hair from afar, not realizing that her own natural hair had perfect spiral curls all along.

The Revelation

One day, Fatima decided to stop using relaxers and let her natural hair grow out. To her surprise, she discovered that her hair had the beautiful curls she always admired. "Oh my God. The hair she always wanted was always right there," she exclaims. This revelation was a turning point, allowing her to appreciate the beauty that was always within her.

An Analogy for Life

Fatima's hair journey is more than just a story about hair; it's an analogy for life. "Very often in life, we keep trying to suppress what's naturally within us," she explains. Just as she suppressed her natural curls, many people suppress their true selves to fit in with societal expectations. "The real you is a gift that we all need," she emphasizes.

Recognizing Inner Beauty

Fatima encourages listeners to recognize the beauty within themselves and stop seeking approval from others. "What you need for your calling on your life, what you're supposed to be doing, where your happiness lies is fulfilling that purpose," she states. The journey to true happiness and fulfillment begins with embracing one's natural self.

A Message for Teens

As a mentor who works closely with teenagers, Fatima sees the pressure young people face to fit in. She urges teens to be authentic and embrace their unique talents and perspectives. "The fact that you're thinking different than them is probably where your gift lies," she advises. Authenticity is the key to unlocking one's true potential.

Overcoming Peer Pressure

Fatima acknowledges that peer pressure is a significant challenge for teens and adults alike. "Adults put themselves under a lot of peer pressure or succumb to peer pressure as well," she notes. Whether it's buying houses and cars we can't afford or getting unnecessary surgeries, peer pressure manifests in various ways. The solution lies in staying true to oneself.

Growing into Authenticity

Embracing one's true self is a journey that takes time. Just as Fatima had to grow her natural hair out for a year and a half, personal growth and self-acceptance take time. "When you let it out, it will become beautiful and we'll actually be able to see the beauty that's within you," she assures. It's a process worth undertaking.

Final Thoughts

Fatima's hair story is a powerful reminder that true beauty and fulfillment come from within. By embracing our natural selves and letting go of societal expectations, we can discover the unique gifts we possess. "The beauty that you seek has always been there. You just have to let it out," she concludes.