The Hairbrained Awards: You Can’t Win If You Don’t Put Yourself Out There

Let’s talk about something that every hairdresser—from seasoned pros to rising stars—needs to hear: you can’t win if you don’t put yourself out there. Entering competitions like the Hairbrained Awards isn’t just about taking home a trophy (though let’s be honest—that part feels pretty amazing). It’s about pushing yourself creatively, getting your work seen, and stepping into a community that celebrates the artistry of hair.

The Hairbrained Awards are one of the most exciting and respected platforms in our industry. Whether you specialize in cutting, coloring, styling, or photography, these awards recognize talent in its purest, most creative form. If you’ve ever thought, “I’m not ready” or “My work isn’t good enough,” consider this your nudge to change that mindset. Because here’s the truth: if you don’t enter, you can’t win.

Why Entering Matters More Than Winning

Sure, winning feels great. But entering a competition like the Hairbrained Awards has way more to offer than a title. Here’s what happens when you take that leap:

1. You Push Your Creative Limits

   • Entering forces you to take your skills to the next level. You start looking at hair differently—exploring techniques, textures, and styles that stretch your imagination.

   • You stop playing it safe and start creating work that excites you, challenges you, and reflects your voice as an artist.

2. You Build Your Portfolio

   • Even if you don’t win, the work you create for the competition is now part of your portfolio. It’s yours to share on social media, submit to publications, and show future clients.

   • Think of it as an opportunity to create the most elevated, artistic version of your work—something that’ll live far beyond the awards.

3. You Become Part of the Conversation

   • The Hairbrained Awards are about more than just competition—they’re about community. When you enter, you put yourself in the mix with other passionate, talented artists.

   • Whether you get nominated or not, people see your work. Fellow hairdressers notice. Brands notice. Potential clients notice. And that visibility is priceless.

4. You Grow Confidence

   • Entering something as big as the Hairbrained Awards is a bold move. And even hitting “submit” is a win in itself because it proves you believe in what you do.

   • Confidence comes from showing up. The more you put yourself out there, the more you realize you belong in these spaces.

Stop Overthinking It: Your Work Deserves to Be Seen

Raise your hand if you’ve ever thought:

• “I’m not good enough yet.”

• “Other people are so much better than me.”

• “What if I don’t win? It’ll be embarrassing.”

Listen—we all have those thoughts. Every creative person on the planet has felt the fear of not measuring up. But here’s the thing: the people you admire? The artists you think are so much better? They’ve been where you are. The difference is they put their work out there anyway.

Winning is never guaranteed, but showing up matters. Every entry you submit is proof of your dedication to the craft—proof to yourself and to the world that you’re serious about what you do.

How to Prepare for the Hairbrained Awards

Ready to stop doubting and start creating? Here’s how to get your entry ready:

1. Pick Your Category

   • Hairbrained Awards offer categories like cutting, color, editorial styling, and more. Choose the one that feels like your zone.

2. Plan Your Concept

   • What inspires you? Maybe it’s fashion, nature, music, or your favorite art movement. Create a mood board and plan a look that reflects your unique perspective.

3. Collaborate with Others

   • Great photos make all the difference. Work with photographers, makeup artists, or models who can help bring your vision to life.

4. Don’t Rush

   • Give yourself time to refine your work. Test techniques, tweak your vision, and make sure every detail is on point.

5. Hit Submit—Even If You’re Nervous

   • You don’t need perfection. You just need the courage to share your art. Let go of the outcome and focus on the fact that you’re doing something amazing for yourself.

The Hairbrained Awards celebrate the kind of artistry that makes this industry so incredible. It’s about creativity, passion, and the belief that hairdressing is art. And here’s the truth: You don’t need to be the “best” to enter. You just need to show up, take your shot, and trust that your work deserves to be seen.

So stop waiting. Stop overthinking. Start creating. Because if you don’t enter, you can’t win—and that’s one opportunity you don’t want to miss.