I keep an album on my phone with inspirational quotes I screengrab from social media. One of my favorites is:

If you’re searching for that one person that will change your life,
Take a look in the mirror.

For years, I held on to the hope that my relationship with my boyfriend would change my life. I imagined a picture perfect future, instead of facing my not so idyllic reality. When we finally broke up for good, I decided it was time to change.

I did everything I could to better myself from eating healthier to cleaning out and renovating my apartment. I wanted my outer appearance to reflect my inner change. That’s where my new hair color came in.

I’ve had pretty much the same hair color for years, lightening it up here and there with highlights. But going dark last month was the boldest color change I’ve done in a long time. To be honest, I wasn’t crazy about it at first. I felt like I needed more makeup with such dark hair. I was nervous it made me less relatable.

But then I started getting compliments. It lifted my spirits. I realized the darker hair made me feel bolder. It’s lightened a bit, and now I absolutely love it.

That’s why I was so drawn to Herbal Essences’ new Changes video (you can check it out on their YouTube channel). It’s encouraging women to embrace that moment of change in their lives, and how their hair played a role. I’ve been a longtime fan of the brand (I’ll never forget when I went with them to the Grammys when our commercial aired!). And I’m so happy they’re encouraging women to be their authentic, true selves.

I hope the video inspires you as much as it inspired me. And just remember, yes, change can be scary at first. But you grow into and nine times out ten, end up loving what you see in the mirror afterwards.

Photos by Falcon Griffith

Jacket: Lovers + Friends (similar)
Turtleneck: 525 America
Jeans: Citizens of Humanity
Bag: Brahmin
Bracelet: Kendra Scott
Boots: Guess

Thank you to Herbal Essences and POPSUGAR for partnering on this post.