@SandGirl
I'm sorry you're stuck in such a dilemma. And I totally understand. We all have our priorities and how we want to present ourselves to our fellow workers and the public. I haven't worked since college. Part time at a car dealership. When you're a teen, getting up early to put on a face and do your hair isn't as hard as it is in your 50s. Even tho I don't have a job, I still want to look the best I can when I go out. I know it's important for you and most likely your employer for you to look nice. It sends a negative vibe to show up at work not looking your best. I give myself 2 hours to get ready! That's if I have to wash and style my hair. If I don't and I have my makeup, accessories and clothes already chosen, it's an hour and a half. I don't have to rush at the time I've given myself. I've also decided that giving myself plenty of time, not having to rush, is well worth the 10-15 minutes of extra sleep. I might feel differently if I worked and had to do this every day.
I'm sure we all wish we had a simple and magical solution for you. I haven't read all the replies but I'm sure I'll be repeating what some have suggested. When I have an early morning appt, I will have my clothes and shoes laid out, jewelry and makeup chosen also. Maybe you can take the time over the weekend to write down your outfit, makeup and accessories for the week or at least 2-3 days. I bathe at night so I can't help there. I have short and dry hair. It doesn't quite touch my shoulders. It's cut in layers. All I have to do is "floof" it with my fingers, upside down, and it's good to go. If I worked, I'd wash it every 3 days. I understand you like your long hair but something has to change if you want change. About your sleep...would you consider an otc sleep aid if getting enough sleep is a problem? Getting to sleep has always been a problem for me. I take these at night and it's helped soooo much. What you do NOT want to do is trim is your skin routine. That's never the solution! I have bangs too and can't imagine myself without them.
It's just not fair that men are basically a wash and go type. Is there anything in your morning routine that you could ask him to do (since he wants you to keep your long hair)? So if you feed the dog/cat in the morning, maybe he could do it? Empty the dishwasher? I'm sure he understands the change you're going thru and the struggles you're having. I wish I had a a magical solution for you.
