Last Updated on July 15, 2024 by David Thomas
When I first grabbed a pair of shears in Denver, Colorado, I set a monumental goal: to become the best barber on the planet. What did “the best” mean? It wasn’t about fame or fortune; I craved mastery over my craft, blending traditional barbering with innovative cosmetology techniques. Despite the laughs and raised eyebrows from peers who couldn’t see the vision, I knew I wanted more.
But reaching the pinnacle in Denver felt limited—like playing a big fish in a small pond. I didn’t quite fit the mold of a “typical” barber there. Craving growth and challenge, I returned to my roots in sunny California, aiming to conquer the intense, bustling, competitive arena of Hollywood. “Make it in Hollywood, and you can make it anywhere,” I told myself.
A Rocky Start in Los Angeles
Relocating to Los Angeles was as tough as I had anticipated. The early days were a struggle with no clients and minimal understanding of how to market myself in such a big city. There were moments I nearly threw in the towel, considering everything from quitting to joining the military. However, determination prevailed.
I delved deep into refining my skills, increasing my haircut numbers, and keenly observing what set apart the top barbers in LA. This was before the boom of social media platforms like Instagram, so resources were scarce. The only way to learn was to find a top barbershop in the area.
Leveraging my background in cosmetology, I slowly carved a niche and found myself alongside some of LA’s top barbers. Surrounded by professionals driven to excel not just behind the chair but in all facets of life, I found my stride and began to make a name for myself in the community.
The Highs and Lows of Barbering
Success in this industry comes with its peaks and valleys. Sure, being in the right place at the right time can offer a lucky break, but the lows? You better be ready because they’re inevitable and they hit HARD and Unexpected. My lowest came when complacency crept in. My health deteriorated, blowing up to nearly 300 lbs, and with it, my passion for barbering dimmed.
This dark phase underscored a crucial lesson: technical skills matter, but they’re only part of the equation. A sound mind and body are the bedrock of sustained success.
This realization sparked a broader mission beyond mere haircuts. It became about wellness, about laying a foundation for my life’s work. This philosophy is something I delve into in my upcoming Barber Wellness Guide.
What Defines the Best?
So, what really makes the best barber? I think it’s someone who shows up every day, fully present, ready to give their best to every client who walks through their doors. This is taxing on the body and mind, so the best barber is one who has figured out how to take care of themselves while taking care of others.
The best barber is never settling. It’s someone who remains a student of the craft, forever pushing boundaries and enhancing their skills. The best barber embeds themselves into the community, giving back and lifting others as they climb with good faith.
I feel like barbers have a massive role in society. We are the people that your significant other sees on a consistent schedule for loooong periods of time. By setting a good example and being “the best barber, “you not only pass that to other barbers, but you pass that to the people sitting in the chair. We have the power to make someone’s day, but we can also destroy someone’s day.
Looking Ahead: My Continued Journey
My journey towards being my best self revealed a significant fear I’d long avoided, now openly acknowledged in the Daily Deposits Newsletter / Podcast. Overcoming this fear is my current battle, part of my ongoing quest to redefine what it means to be the best barber—not just in Los Angeles but in every aspect of life.
I Want to Hear From You
What does being the best barber mean to you? Whether you’re a fellow barber or a valued client, your perspectives enrich this conversation. Is it the skill, the prestige, the ability to transform appearances and moods within hours? Cutting celebrities? Is it owning 100 shops around the world?
I encourage you to join the discussion.
Share your thoughts in the comments, and let’s expand this conversation to reshape our perception of greatness in barbering.
Til next time …