RESET

We asked industry leaders how they practise self-preservation when the going gets tough

In 2023 the hair industry went through a lot - we continued to navigate rising energy costs and came together to fight for VAT reform, with many calling on the government to level the playing field. So it might not come as a surprise then that in a recent poll on HJ’s Instagram, all respondents said they had considered leaving the industry at some point, whilst 64% have experienced anxiety, burnout and depression in the last 12 months.

“Money worries can kickstart a scarcity mindset, and this can lead to a bit of a ‘future panic’,” explains Hayley Jepson, The Resilient Hairdresser. “You worry that the work will dry up, so you say yes to things you wouldn't normally say yes to, which then leads to burnout, low mood and resentment.”

A growing industry skills gap has also been a contributor to burnout. “Staffing will always be my biggest challenge. The team and the culture are what makes a business, not the owner or founder,” says Jordanna Cobella, owner of Cobella Salon, who explains that finding the right team is paramount to success. “In the last two years I have noticed a shift in work ethic, and the prevalence of mental health struggles which can get in the way of full-time work commitments.”

To help, Jordanna restructured to a four-day week; encouraging an open dialogue and a supportive environment. Like Jordanna, Hayley recommends paying attention to what's going on in your business and making changes where necessary. “Look at the numbers, look at how often clients are coming, look at the facts, not the rhetoric that people are putting out there,” adding: “I always say don't have too many mentors at once. Choose one or two people that you respect and listen to them.”

Building Boundaries

For Ky Wilson, founder of District Salon, it’s a myth that setting boundaries will ruin your career: “I sold my salons and switched that cog off. It was the most liberating feeling,” he says, adding: “This is one of the unhealthiest industries – even though it's all about making people feel good. I care about my clients but if I'm ill or need to cancel, I’m not afraid to do it.”

Ashleigh Hodges, curator of Mash Creative Studio, also experienced a change in mindset and found that putting her mental health first was the answer when she questioned staying in the industry. “I stepped away from the salon and went freelance because I needed to take a breath and figure out what I wanted.” By setting the boundary of only choosing jobs that could pay rent or make her happy, Ashleigh was able to focus on what she enjoyed, which in turn led to more opportunities. “I'm constantly having to reset and readjust boundaries - someone once told me, ‘For an arrow to fly forward it has to pull back’.” Jordanna is also a champion of stepping back and reassessing: “I perform well under pressure, but over-commitment takes its toll on me and I now have a really good coping mechanism when I feel burnout approaching.”

Setting and reviewing boundaries within your business will not only protect your own mental resources but will improve your client experience – in turn earning you more money. “You can't pick boundaries in your twenties, and think they'll serve you for life. They’re a moving target that move with your changing responsibilities,” explains Hayley. “People like boundaries as well, they like to know what the rules are.” So, why not think about where you need to take a step back in order to continue forward?