Growing up we're taught to "not judge a book by its cover" and that "looks can be deceiving" and it's absolutely true. Looks are deceiving and we should NOT judge a book or a person by its cover, but the honest truth is, we do. 

Whether it's how we dress, what we drive, where we work, or how glorious (aka BIG) our beard is. Time and time again, I am shocked at the stories I hear from our community about the beard stereotypes they get, especially the bullsh*t workplace beard policies and "you need to shave" demands.

As my bearded brothers know, growing a beard can be a truly unique experience. On one hand, it's just hair that happens to grows on your face. On the other hand, it completely changes the way you look, and how others see you.

Of course growing a beard changes the way you look, half the time that's why guys grow the damn thing in the first place, so that's to be expected. However, what isn't always expected is the stereotypes that come with growing a good beard.

The truth is, as soon as you start getting some good length, the stereotypes kick in. It's a right of passage in a way, and most don't bother me, they're a little annoying, but not a big deal.  

Like the classic "you look homeless" comments, or the obnoxious "you look like a terrorist" jab that gets tossed around because every Jihadi asshole we see on TV happens to have a beard. Really dude? You see a beard and your first thought is homeless or terrorist? Com'on man! 🤦🏽🤦🏽

These ones are annoying and overplayed, but no big deal. However, what really kills me is the "you look unprofessional" or "your beard isn't family friendly." comments. Are you serious? A beard is unprofessional? Not family friendly? This is absolutely absurd! 

Who the hell came up with this nonsense?

My money is on a-holes at Gillette and there multi-billion dollar ad budget dating back 100+ years promoting the "For The Civilized Man" ad campaign. I'll give it to them, they've done one hell of a job shaping the way society views men. But, then again, billions in ad dollars and 100+ years has that effect. 

Here's what I'm talkin' about... 

If you ask me, this behavior is unacceptable! Yes, I completely understand there are several jobs that one MUST shave for safety requirements, and we wholeheartedly support that. That's not what we are talking about here.

What we are talking about here is outdated, ridiculous stereotypes that have no basis in reality. This has to stop, and it's up to us to make that happen!

Final Thoughts

It's time to stand up for ourselves, for our beliefs, and for eachother! As beardsmen, I believe it's our responsibility to DO BETTER every single day. To learn from our mistakes, grow through our failures, and strive daily to be the best men we can be. 

By doing this together we can begin to tip the scales in favor of beardsmen and show the world that a beard does NOT define a man, his CHARACTER does! The way he treats others, his integrity, and how hard he works, not his beard. 

Have an amazing day brother, and let us know if you need anything. We are here to support you any way we can. Before you go, leave us a comment below 👇🏽 and let us know what you think? What ridiculous things have you heard about your beard? Have you had issues with work because of your beard? How can we change this?