For most of us, the idea of a full-on man-on-man makeover is a far-fetched fantasy. Forget getting the beard and moustache artist-ed on a luxury rehaul. When it comes to drastic changes in style, it’s always more for show than in reality.
Nevertheless, I’ve seen my fair share of men break down in tears after sporting something more daring than a clean shave. We asked 20 men around the UK to tell us what they’ve gone through, and how it affected their relationships – be it ‘hot chick mixed with actor and football player’ problems, or simply a tough week at work.
If you are a man and this has happened to you or someone you know, don’t panic. Your situation is not unusual. The rise of social media has given every man in the country the chance to talk about their relationship problems – the medium is death for any relationship, but especially to those who have an “unspoken rule of “acceptance of who you are”.
Before you take the plunge, be sure to do your research, however awkward it may be. Some consultants offer services to make your partner feel better, while others offer us the opportunity to walk away. You don’t have to reject a new relationship because you get lost in an embarrassing beard transplant. A few emotional firsts, such as visiting a new salon, will make your partner less embarrassed and less likely to say “no”.
If you are more worried about your friends and family – the husbands, dads and siblings who may become awkward when you finally say what you’re going through – one way to cope is to give them something to talk about. Your friends and relatives may never do you right, but at least they will understand where you’re coming from, and understand if you decide to call time on your relationship.
If your problem isn’t career related – such as one of the aforementioned goings-on at work – and is manageable, email him a ‘post-script’. The post-script will address the reasons why the relationship is not going anywhere, whether you can be friends for life, and at the end, if you can see yourself getting back together in the future.
