It is human nature to want what we do not have. It certainly does not help that most celebrities seem to always look like they are having a great hair day—never mind that they probably just spent hours being brushed, combed, sprayed, twisted and fussed over by an army of colorists and stylists. If you ever wondered how to escape the agonies of bad hair days, you are in luck. Adopt the following simple strategies, and you will find instant relief for your hair woes.

Start by first taking a good look at yourself in the mirror. Concentrate on the parts of your hair that you enjoy: great color that brings out your eyes and skin, fabulous length, bangs that are perfectly layered. Focus on the great parts of your hair and don’t get caught up in the attributes that you do not like.

You and only you are required to wear your hair for your life events. When well-meaning family and friends volunteer their unsolicited opinions, keep in mind that they do not own your hair. Unless someone tells you that your hair is on fire, smile politely at their comments and ignore them.

Whether you have stick-straight hair, masses of curls, or tons of waves, find a role model that has the same type of hair as you. It is impossible to try to have curls like Debra Messing when your hair is fine, thin or straight as a board. Instead, focus on people with hair like yours to model.

When was the last time you received a compliment and shrugged it off? Not only does this discourage people from giving you additional kudos, it diminishes your own feelings about how great you really do look. Next time someone displays admiration at your hair or looks, be gracious and enjoy.

Every single season of the year ushers in a completely new bumper crop of hairstyles. Bangs are in, and then they are out. Hair is long, then short, then chopped, then curled. Who can keep up? Ignore hot hair trends and stay focused on styles that work best for you and your hair. Listen to your inner voice and trust your intuition about what styles and products are right for you. If you know you look best with bangs, then enjoy. If you love a certain shampoo, stick with it. Find a stylist that you trust who listens to what you want for yourself. Do not be pressured to conform to the stylist’s whims. A good hair consultant will work with you as you are, listen to what you want, and make you feel great in the process.

Learning to love your hair has everything to do with getting more enjoyment out of life. Your hair is just as special and unique as you are as a person. So flaunt who you are and enjoy! tpw