We beard growers, beard advocates, and beard fans ought to make the word beard‘s meaning as a verb work better for us!
Words are important. Let’s leverage the power of the word beard.
To beard or not to beard?
How is the word beard used as a verb in English? Common dictionary definitions of beard as a verb include:
to boldly confront, oppose, or defy
to furnish or supply with a beard
An older definition of beard as a verb is:
to grab, pull, or even pluck a man’s beard
The above definitions for beard as a verb are not commonly used today. How about we add another definition of beard as a verb?
Beard: Chris. Click on image to view larger.
Let’s adopt this additional definition:
beard verb to grow one’s beard
This applies to both new beard growers in their initial stages of the beard growing process as well as to those who continue to grow their established beards.
Examples of usage:
Oh, look. Johnny is bearding. (Johnny is growing his beard.)
Chris is an expert at bearding. (Chris is an expert at beard growing.)
I am going to beard starting next weekend. (I am going to start growing my beard next weekend.)
Scott beards in a big way. (Scott grows his beard in a big way.)
Beard: Chris. Click on image to view larger.
Why use the word beard this way?
Here are some reasons:
It’s quicker.
It’s easier to say.
It’s kind of fun and cool.
Beard enthusiasts should own some of our beard terminology.
It emphasizes that growing our beards is something that we do.
It’s already in use to a limited extent. Let’s spread the word!
Is it really too much to keep saying “he’s growing his beard” that it needs to be shortened to “he’s bearding”? No. It’s not. We can and should use both “he is growing his beard” and “he’s bearding”. The shorter form is novel and more convenient while the longer form is more conventional.
A form of using the word beard to mean “to grow one’s beard” has already been in use for a number of years. Phrases such as “beard up” and “beard on” are imperatives essentially based on the “to grow one’s beard” definition. These phrases are ways of saying “grow your beard” or “keep growing your beard”. We should expand on this usage even further.
Beard: Chris. Click on image to view larger.
You beard. I beard. Let’s all beard!
Language is always evolving. How can we add a new definition of beard as a verb? The way to do it is to just start using it. Widely adopted changes in the usage of language are what bring about changes to the language itself.
Whenever you can, say “he’s bearding” instead of “he’s growing his beard”. Or say “you really should beard” instead of “you really should grow your beard”.
Treasure your beard. Enjoy your beard. Enjoy the whole beard experience. Beard: it’s something that we do.
Beard up. Beard on. Beard forever. Let’s do this! Spread the word. Start using this additional meaning of the word beard today. Use it freely and regularly!
Your beard gives you a special power. It’s the power to change your appearance in a big way. This can lead to new discoveries and personal development for you as well as various effects on others.
You experienced this when you grew your beard for the first time. Keep in mind that you can multiply this power by changing up your beard whenever you like.
An underappreciated aspect of the Joy of Beard is the option to change up your beard in a variety of ways. This can bring about unexpected positive results. You should consider trying it, even if you are skeptical.
A man’s ability to grow a beard is a special gift, a privilege you might say. Boys cannot grow a beard. They can only dream of someday becoming a man who grows his beard. But not all men are even blessed with the ability to grow a beard. It really is a gift.
Those who are fortunate to be enabled for beard growing should embrace and even love the privilege. They should grow their beards with wholehearted joy.
Above: Barry with a big beard looks completely different from Barry with a short beard. Click or tap on either image to view larger.
The power to change your appearance
When you first grew a beard and abandoned the tedious task of shaving, you revealed your true face. You may have settled on a particular beard style and have stayed with it. If you’re happy with your beard as it is, you may believe that there is no need to even think about changing it. That’s an understandable position to take. But consider stretching out of your comfort zone to try something different with your beard. You may unexpectedly find that you like the new state of your beard even better. This could happen even when trying out a beard style that you may not care for. This happened to me. That’s a story for another post.
Keep in mind that changing up your beard does not mean that you are permanently giving up your current beard style. You can always go back. But it can happen that you decide to stay with the new beard for a long run.
Some ways to change up your beard:
Grow your beard bigger and longer. Perhaps even go for a “yeard”, that is, letting your beard grow without trimming for a full year.
Reduce your beard to a shorter one or even a stubble beard.
Do the unthinkable and shave off your beard just for the pleasure of re-growing it.
Color your beard.
Switch beard style types:
Go from a goatee to a full beard or do the opposite.
Big beard Barry at work! Click on image to view larger.
The power to change your self-image and attitude
Changing up your beard changes how you see yourself. A change to your beard may surprise you. The new look may please you way more than you could have expected. Then it happens.
When you look in the mirror and the way your beard looks makes you happy, that is a most awesome feeling. There is true power in that.
Loving the way your beard looks is not a matter of vanity. It’s recognition of the joy that comes from the gift of being able to grow a beard and the many options that it brings. You know it when you look at your beard in the mirror and cannot keep from smiling!
The power of beard happiness strengthens your confidence and instills a positive attitude. You can be inspired to achieve more, to achieve greatness. You can be inspired to help others and do other things that make you a better man.
Changing up your beard can lead you to the power of “beard happiness”. Trying out different changes to your beard can lead you to the beard that makes you feel that happiness and power. You don’t have to make a permanent change. You may end up returning to the way you originally had your beard. But you’ll go back there with a new appreciation. Or you may find a beard style that you like much better and never go back to your original beard style.
Short beard Barry out on a casual hike on a nature trail. Take note of his perfectly shaped neckline. Click on image to view larger.
Beard power from the heart
A friend recently shared how he feels about changing up one’s beard:
Growing your beard and changing up your beard whenever you like demonstrates pride in who you are. It reflects what’s in your heart.
First, it’s a gift to yourself to grow and change up your beard. It’s fulfilling the promise of the gift of beard that you’ve been given. What you do with your beard shows how you care for yourself and seek change and improvement.
Second, your beard and its changing form is an expression of love to share with others by letting them see it. They can see the change in the beard and the change in you. Giving to others, sharing with others enhances yourself and helps others. It’s a circle of virtue.
Your beard is part of who you are and what you can accomplish.
We really mean it when we say that the beard is a gift. It is. And it is up to you to make the most of your gift of beard by using it to enhance yourself and accomplish more. Your beard in all its forms strengthens you by lifting your spirit and hopes, leading you to achieve more for yourself and others.
Above: Scott appears with three beard sizes: short, bigger, and even bigger. Big difference! Click or tap on any image to view larger.
How often should you change up your beard?
Change up your beard whenever you feel like it. It could be frequently. It could be rarely. Just be open to trying it when the time feels right. You never know where it will lead you. Follow your heart. Do your best always. Love the special power of changing up your beard.
Enjoy and treasure the whole beard experience.
Scott changed up his short beard and achieved this clearly majestic beard! Click on image to view larger.
Should you sacrifice your beard for a wedding or some other special occasion? Proceed with caution. Keep an open mind and focus on preserving and nurturing your relationship with the person requesting that you get rid of your beard. Be understanding, flexible, and willing to bend, if necessary, for the sake of family ties.
Is someone pressuring you to shave your beard for a wedding? Would it happen to be the bride-to-be? There have been many cases in which brides-to-be have asked members of the wedding party to divest themselves of their beards. Each situation is unique and should be carefully evaluated in the context of the interpersonal relationships. However, do not allow intimidation to send you immediately to the razor without exploring your options!
Classic full beard: Barry. Click on image to view larger.
What’s the deal with the “no beards in my wedding” requirement?
Just about any man can be vulnerable to wedding beard-removal pressure. Targets may include any or all of the following:
groom
groomsmen
best man
father of the bride
father of the groom
other relatives of either the bride or the groom
Of course, a bride’s wedding day is her big day. She dreams of it all being perfect. That’s understandable. Keep in mind how important this is to her.
But why should a man’s beard be targeted for removal? Who else gets pressured to make such a major change to their physical appearance for a wedding?
Well, it’s not really a fair request to begin with. Don’t dismiss it out of hand. But don’t immediately give up, either. Exploring your options could be a learning and growth opportunity for all involved. Focus on building your relationship with the beard-removal requester. That is likely more important than the potential temporary loss of a beard.
Classic full beard: Barry. Click on image to view larger.
Wedding photos with or without beards?
Frequently, the “problem” isn’t with the man being bearded at the wedding. Many times, the problem is that the requester does not want beards in the wedding photos.
The “no-beard” rule may be applied with seemingly random standards. How about the case of the groom being permitted his beard, but the rest of the men in the wedding party must be beard-free? Often, you cannot make it make sense.
Wedding photos are intended to capture the event and the people who take part. Consider the case of a man who is normally bearded, with the beard being a well-established part of his appearance and identity. If he shaves his beard specifically for the wedding, his beardless appearance in the wedding photos represent a temporary artificial representation of himself. He will not appear in the photos in the way that people have known him. He may not even be recognizable to those who know him.
Another thing is that perhaps it’s important to the man that he appear in the photos with his beard. When he and others look at the photos years later, they will see the unfamiliar beardless face instead of the regular bearded face they know and love.
For the man who gave up his beard for the wedding, it may seem strange to see himself in photos without his beard. He may not like that his beard was missing from his appearance at the event. That’s not a big deal. But it can feel funny. I have felt something similar when seeing myself in a photo of a special event before I was able to grow a beard. I look at the photo and think, “Gee. I wish I could have been bearded in this photo.” Again, it’s not anything major. It’s just kind of an unexpected feeling.
Classic full beard: Barry. Click on image to view larger.
Respect the feelings of the one requesting “no beards”
Yes, it’s not really fair to ask a man to shave his beard for a wedding or some other special occasion. However, always keep in mind that for the person making this request, it’s their very special day. Don’t take a hardline approach. Handle with genuine care and respect.
Have a lighthearted conversation with the requester to make your feelings known. Gently see if you can win acceptance of your beard for the event. If the delicate negotiation succeeds, then great! Problem solved…you hope.
Classic full beard: Barry. Click on image to view larger.
If gentle negotiation fails
If the requester cannot be gently persuaded to drop the beard-shaving requirement, stay calm and cool. At this point it all comes down to preserving the relationship or not. If you want to preserve the relationship, you’ll have to step up and agree to shave. Yes, it’s not fair. Yes, you do not want to lose your beard, even for a short time. But make the person happy and agree to get rid of your beard for the big day. It’s an investment in the future happiness of your relationship.
Classic full beard: Barry. Click on image to view larger.
Here’s the upside to sacrificing your beard for the wedding
Despite the unfairness of being pressured to change your appearance in a big way that others are not, you’ve taken an important step to protect your relationship with the requester. Don’t resent having gotten rid of your beard. Again, view it as an investment.
You may be justified in feeling that sacrificing your beard for a wedding was unfair. You may feel that giving in will only embolden the requester to continue similar behavior in the future. That may be. But if there were ever a time to let it slide, this would be it.
The big bonus is that after it’s all over, you are free to grow again. Enjoy the pleasure of growing and experiencing the glorious and triumphant return of your beloved beard! You deserve it.
Chris and I came across an intriguing sticker that someone had slapped onto a structural column. We were doing a photo shoot for beards.org that day in the summer heat. We took one photo of Chris and the sticker, which you see as the featured image at the top of this post.
The thought-provoking message of the “YOU ARE IMPORTANT” sticker got me to thinking that if you are important, well your beard is important, too.
A beard’s importance
Grow your beard proudly and with purpose. Your beard is important and so are you. Beard: Chris. Click on image to view larger.
How can a beard be important? Cynics may say that it’s ridiculous, that a beard is just hair. Well, it is made of hair. But it’s much more than that. While people may not come right out and say it, they put a lot of importance on hair. Otherwise, why do men and women spend so much on haircuts, hair styling, hair coloring, and hair products each year? Simply put, the care and styling of one’s hair is an important part of maintaining one’s image. Both men and women put a great deal of importance on looking their best. For a man, his beard is an important part of looking his best.
For a man, some may think that his beard is just an optional feature of his appearance. However, his beard is one of a man’s most powerful options because of how dramatically it can change his appearance. The ability to change a man’s appearance so significantly gives the beard a great deal of importance.
Growing a beard, especially for the first time, can require courage. For many, it takes a lot of courage. It also takes dedication. A man can learn a lot about himself by experiencing the beard-growing process. The self-knowledge a man gains by growing his beard can provide an important boost to his confidence and self-esteem. It’s not just growing a beard. It often is a life-changing adventure.
The boost a beard brings to a man’s confidence and self-esteem also builds courage, dedication, perseverance, and other qualities that can lead a man to become a better man. And a better man can do greater things for himself, for others, and for the world. You never know how much impact a good, bearded man can have.
Live free and bearded
Exercise your freedom to grow your beard. It’s important! Beard: Chris. Click on image to view larger.
For many men, growing a beard represents freedom. This is especially common among men after leaving military service. Having been subjected to compulsory shaving while serving, growing a beard after military service gives a sweet sense of freedom. Few things are more prized than freedom. When your beard represents your freedom, that’s important.
Grow your beard and grow stronger
Your beard affects how you see yourself. If seeing your beard in the mirror brings a smile to your face and makes you feel happy, that is like a magical source of strength and energy. If you believe that your beard greatly enhances your appearance, it fortifies your confidence and makes you feel better about yourself. If your beard makes you feel better about yourself, you have more power to do better in all your endeavors. And that’s important.
Your beard is a one-of-a-kind gift
Your beard is unique in the world. Your beard is yours alone. It adds to your uniqueness. Recognizing how unique you are as a bearded man is important. There are things that only you can contribute to others and to the world. Your beard enhances that.
Your beard is an important part of you. You can deny your beard by keeping it shaved off. Or you can more naturally and fully express yourself by growing your beard. Your beard can be an important part of expressing your true identity. If you were blessed with the ability to grow a beard, think about that. It’s there for a reason. Don’t deny your beard. Don’t shave it. Share your important gift of beard with the world. Let it grow!
Be a beard hero
Grow your beard proudly. It’s important. And you are important, too. Beard: Chris. Click on image to view larger.
Your beard is important to others, too. Without even knowing it, you may be serving as a beard role model or even a beard hero to others. For someone wanting to grow a beard for the first time, seeing you as a strong, successful, established beard grower may give them the confidence to get through the beard-growing process. For those who waver and are about to run for the razor, the sight or even just the memory of your beard may be all it takes to encourage them to stay with it and continue growing their new beard.
You and your beard surely serve as an inspiration to others. You and your beard may provide a powerful vision of a hardy, masculine, bearded future to a young boy or teen who dreams of growing a beard like yours when he grows up. Do not underestimate the importance of this!
Further, your beard may inspire relatives, friends, or strangers to grow their beards. This really happens, often without your knowledge. Your beard is also important to non-beard growers, both people you know as well as complete strangers. Your children may adore their father’s beard. Your beard may make you seem extra special to nieces and nephews and other relatives along with friends, neighbors, colleagues, and other acquaintances.
The chance sighting of you and your beard in public may bring smiles to countless strangers. Your beard’s splendor is a marvel of nature that commands the attention and admiration of many.
You can never know how much your beard has affected others.
You are important
Of course you are more than just your beard. You are important, too.
As a bearded man, you have an opportunity to help advance beard acceptance and appreciation. By being bearded, you are a living advertisement for beards. You are a beard representative to everyone you see.
Your beard is important and so are you. Live strong. Live bearded and be your best authentic self. Beard: Chris. Click on image to view larger.
I encourage all bearded men to invest in themselves. Leverage your bearded confidence and strength to be your best. As more and more men grow beards, more people get to know us. The more that bearded men present themselves as strong, honorable role models, the more they erode stereotypical anti-beard bias. This helps to elevate the general perception of bearded men, which leads to greater acceptance of beards and greater appreciation. While beards on men are more common nowadays and are far more accepted than they have been in ages, anti-beard bias still exists. The more beards are accepted and appreciated, the more freedom all men will have to grow their beards as they see fit.
By being your best as a bearded man, you help yourself. You also help your family, friends, and others. Your beard is important and so are you. Never forget that. Live bearded always and prosper.
Make plans now to ensure that 2024 is a great year for beards no matter what else is going on. Your beard plans should be for your own beard as well as for all other beards!
Fortify your beard enthusiasm. Your beard enthusiasm can be contagious. Be aware that this should cause more beards to be grown and appreciated everywhere you go.
Can’t grow a beard yourself, but are a beard fan? Increase your beard enthusiasm level as well. You can be a great resource for encouraging potential beard growers to make the decision to grow.
Spread the joy of beards.
Beards are a gift. Not every man is blessed with the gift of being able to grow a beard. Those who can grow a beard, should.
Beards are for everyone, whether they can grow a beard or not. Beards naturally attract visual attention. Many people appreciate and enjoy seeing the endless variety of beards in the world whether they themselves are beard growers or not. People also enjoy witnessing the transformation of family, friends, and others when they observe them growing new beards. Let the world see your true, bearded face.
As your beard is a gift, don’t take it for granted. Appreciate it. Your beard should be a source of joy to yourself and to others. Enjoy the gift of being bearded. Don’t deny anyone the pleasure of seeing the beard that is uniquely yours!
Spread the joy of beards further by encouraging others to grow their beards and appreciate their beards as the gifts that they are. And encourage these new beard growers to encourage more and more men to keep this beard chain reaction going.
Let’s do more in 2024 to make it an awesome year for beards. Beard: Nathan. Click on image to view larger.
Keep your beard enthusiasm level high at all times:
Be eager to tell others about your beard, the story behind it, and more. Many will be curious about your beard but hesitant to ask about it.
Always be ready to encourage potential beard growers to make the decision to grow. You could even offer to be an informal “beard coach” to help them along the way and to stick with it.
Don’t overlook former beard growers who have left the beard behind for whatever reason. Offer encouragement to them to return to the beard. Maybe they gave up for a reason that you could help them overcome.
Freely compliment other beard growers whenever you have a chance. They appreciate the positive reinforcement. This can go a long way toward strengthening their resolve to remain bearded. Giving compliments is free. Be generous!
Improve or expand your own beard experience.
Make plans to up your beard game or try something new with your beard in 2024. You’ll always benefit from the new experience. Even if a change doesn’t turn out to your liking, at least it will have been a lesson learned!
Here are some ideas for changing up your beard for the better:
Strengthen your beard grooming skills: Maybe try out a new beard oil or beard balm. Get a new beard trimmer or work with your barber to take your beard grooming to a new level.
Change your beard style: If there’s a beard style that you’ve always wanted to try but have never done it, give it a go! If you don’t like how it turns out, you can always revert to your previous beard style. Check out our beard style guide for ideas.
Expand your beard: Switch to a full beard if you can. Let your existing beard grow out more. Let your full beard grow out natural. Consider even going for a “yeard”, a “year beard”, which means letting your beard grow with minimal or no trimming for a full twelve months.
Be bearded. Be happy. Beard: Nathan. Click on image to view larger.
There are lots of ways to make 2024 a great year for beards. Try some of the ideas presented here. Or come up with your own ideas. Let me know what you do!
P.S. beard recognition:
The splendid beard used to illustrate this post is produced by our wonderful friend Nathan Maingard. The photos are from a photo shoot that we did during one of his visits to the USA. Be sure to see:
Your beard enhances your manly appearance. It’s a part of you. Your decision to grow your beard, how much you let it grow, and how you style and maintain it are all reflections of your own unique, masculine style. Your beard choices shouldn’t be dictated by the whims of fashion trends.
Fashion, however, influences your wardrobe, which further defines your personal style. Your footwear choices are a key part of enhancing your masculine image. Men’s boots are rugged and made for men. The right boots add a manly accent to your overall appearance. Let’s look at some of the major types of men’s boots and even consider how your beard and your boots may complement one another.
Beard, cowboy hat, western shirt, jeans, and boots: you’re ready to to go! Beard: Vicente. Location: Texas! Click on image to view larger.
Chelsea boots
Chelsea boots are a popular type that straddle the line between casual and formal. They are a good choice for any man’s footwear collection. These slip-on boots are easy to put on and take off. There’s no fumbling around with laces.
Chelseas are sleek and stylish. And they are known for being comfortable. With elastic sides and no laces, Chelseas put your feet under less pressure. With respect to style, some Chelseas have a more formal look while other offerings are more casual. Chelsea boots are perfect for the “business casual” look.
While leaning a bit towards the casual, Chelsea boots may be considered to be a little on the dressy side. A short, neatly-groomed beard would definitely work well with Chelsea boots. You could also pull off a classy look with a bigger beard that’s immaculately groomed.
Chukka boots
Chukka boots are beautiful and simple in their design. They’re often called “desert boots”, which are a type of chukka with crepe soles and suede uppers. Other types of classic chukka boots are sturdier than the desert variety.
If you’re just starting to build your boot collection, chukkas are a great first choice. Options you’ll find will likely include classy, black leather chukkas. A better first choice, however, might be a more flexible casual gray or light brown suede chukka.
When you’re ready to move up to a more formal chukka, a good choice might be a light brown leather boot. It’s bright and elegant without being too formal.
Which beard choices work best with chukka boots? Pretty much whichever beard style works well for you should go well with chukkas. As always, make sure that you keep your beard maintained and styled in top condition.
Oxford boots
Oxfords are instantly recognizable classics. You can’t go wrong by adding a pair of Oxford boots to your collection. Oxford boots, especially black leather Oxfords, have a classy appearance that will serve you well for any formal occasion.
Black leather Oxfords are a top choice for versatile formal footwear. They go well with just about any suit that you might have. When you expand your boot collection, you might consider adding a pair of brown Oxford boots, which work well with a variety of men’s suits. The brown Oxfords even pair really well with a ginger beard.
When you wear Oxford boots for formal occasions, you’re going for that classy, elegant look. That means that your beard should look classy and elegant as well. Keep your beard in top form by having it neatly trimmed and perfectly groomed without even a hair out of place!
Work boots
Work boots are intended for safety, comfort, and durability. Quality work boots will have a sturdy build. This ensures that the work boots will be long lasting. When men are putting in long hours of hard work, a comfortable pair of well-constructed work boots can’t be beat.
Their tough, masculine look makes work boots a perfect choice outside of work when you’re going casual and want to present a confident, rugged appearance. Work boots look great with jeans and casual shirts. What kind of beard works well with work boots? Just about any beard that you can bring!
Hiking boots
As a bearded man, you’ve probably got your adventurous side. When you want to get outside and enjoy the great outdoors, some good hiking boots are just what you need.
Depending on just how adventurous your hiking may be, you’ll have your choice between boots designed for day hiking or backpacking. Day hiking boots are better for more casual hiking or even just ordinary walking. Backpacking boots are heavier duty and are intended for use on longer, more challenging, and strenuous hikes.
Hiking boots should provide good traction and have sturdy soles for foot comfort. Ankle support is important as is water resistance. And hiking boots should be lightweight to make it easier for you to cover long distances. Any good-quality day hiking boot should incorporate all these features and more. You want the traction to avoid slips and falls. And the water resistance always comes in handy because you’ll inevitably have to trek through wet zones such as mud, puddles, and streams. Or you may get caught in an unexpected downpour.
Pick up a good pair of hiking boots and get yourself and your beard outdoors exploring nature. I mean, what could be more natural than a man growing his beard? Hiking boots go well with any type of beard, from the shortest to the biggest and bushiest. Grow your beard and take a hike!
Cowboy boots
Cowboy boots are a great choice whether you’re putting in long hours of hard work on the farm or ranch, going horseback riding, or stepping out for a night on the town. These versatile boots are comfortable, practical, and stylish. Cowboy boots can be plain and simple or spectacular works of art. There’s a cowboy boot to suit just about any bearded man’s style preferences.
You can choose a cowboy boot that’s tough enough for work or one that makes a masculine fashion statement to fit your image. You can even find cowboy boots that are great for work and are stylish as well. There are so many choices, you may find it hard to pick out a pair. Browse around and see what catches your eye. And don’t hesitate to consult your retailer for assistance with choosing a cowboy boot and making sure that you get a pair that fits properly.
Any beard from the full range of beard styles will work well with cowboy boots. And don’t forget your cowboy hat, pardner!
Steppin’ out in cowboy boots at night. Beard: Vicente. Click on image to view larger.
Boots for the bearded
Boots are an important part of any bearded man’s wardrobe. Key points to remember when buying boots include:
Be sure that the boot type is right for your intended purpose.
Invest in well-built boots that will serve you well for a long time.
Make sure that the boots fit you properly.
Your feet will thank you for choosing quality boots that fit well and are comfortable.
Ranging from casual to formal, you can find great boots that enhance your masculine image and go well with your beard. Start building your boot collection today!
Michael was just a youngster when he first appeared on All About BEARDS as a teenage beard grower. Over the years, Michael has remained firmly committed to the beard, especially the full beard. Throughout the bearded period of his life, Michael has regularly supplied photo updates, documenting his beard journey here on All About BEARDS.
In 2021, Michael achieved two significant beard milestones. First, he started off the year by hitting the mark of being bearded for half of his life. Today he’s been bearded longer than he was beardless. Now his “beard time” keeps getting longer while his beardless time remains fixed.
In the months leading up to this first 2021 milestone, Michael had another beard achievement in the works. Starting on July first of 2020, Michael began to let his full beard grow freely without trimming for the first time ever. His goal was to achieve a year’s worth of unrestrained beard growth, informally known as a “yeard”. Michael reached his “yeard” goal on July 1, 2021.
Scroll down to read more about Michael’s beard story and his two major beard-growing achievements in 2021. All photos appear courtesy of Michael.
Michael started out as a teenage beard grower. He’s remained a dedicated full-time beard grower ever since. And this month he has completed his first year-beard or “yeard” growing achievement.
Early this year your birthday marked a milestone of being bearded now for half your life. How do you feel about achieving such a long time of being bearded?
Yes, this year is a true milestone in my beard growing “career”. Though I rarely think of it as one, I suppose that it is somewhat of an achievement to stay persistent and consistent for such a time period, never giving up, and staying on the chosen path. All in all, it feels great and I will definitely keep going.
Did you have a special celebration to mark the occasion?
No, I did not. Not being the extroverted type, I rarely celebrate personal events. And with the recent year being quite rough, I did not have any special celebrations of the occasion.
When you started growing your beard as a teenager did you ever expect that you would stay bearded for such a long time?
I never thought of it that long term, or to be frank, at all. But I am quite glad it came out like this.
What was it that kept you choosing to stay bearded all along the way?
Since day one, the beard felt as I believe it should feel for a man — as a natural and integral part of me, of one’s look, feel, and essence as a man. This, what has always kept me going, is that authentic feeling of my bearded self. I cannot imagine myself in any other way.
Michael started his “year beard” or “yeard” with his pre-existing beard. He simply decided to let the existing beard grow unrestrained and untrimmed for at least one year. Here you see his beard in late August 2020, nearly two months into the process.
What prompted you to go for the year beard, aka “yeard”?
Firstly, the name is awesome, I must say. And I was not aware of it being a “formal” thing in our community. Secondly, regarding the yeard itself, it came naturally along the way. I used to trim the beard a little, once every few weeks. But last summer and autumn were quite busy for me with various occurrences. So I just missed one trim, then another, and then one more… And I saw that it was good. So about three-to-four months in, I just kept going until making a conscious decision to continue doing so.
By late September 2020, Michael’s beard had reached this size.
Your year-beard policy has been to let your beard grow unrestrained, without any trimming whatsoever, except for the mustache. How do you like having your beard so much bigger and longer now?
I like it very much! Having the beard fuller, longer, thicker, and pretty much unrestrained gives one a great sense of freedom. I love both how it feels and looks.
This is was the state of Michael’s growing beard in early October 2020.
Has anything surprised you about the bigger beard experience?
I never thought a beard could get that tangled and intertwined, ha ha. Sometimes it feels like a dense, yet very soft, little forest or maybe a plant of sorts. Regardless of how one describes it, the realization that it is a living “thing” is quite nice. Another thing which I knew before but haven’t experienced much earlier in my beard growing career is how soft it gets when growing this big. The thought of it resembling a small pillow crossed my mind before, but after adopting a cat it has been proven correct.
Here is a look at Michael’s beard’s growth progress at the end of October 2020.
Have you been pressured by any others to trim back the bigger beard?
No, I have not been pressured. Though here and there I did (and occasionally do) hear a few questions such as, “Are you going to trim / shorten it back?” But all in all, reactions mostly range from obliviousness to support and even amazement.
Michael’s beard had reached this size by the end of November 2020. The size of his beard is accentuated here by the flared shape achieved by styling.
Has this new growing experience changed your view of bigger and longer beards?
This wonderful, ongoing experience has not changed my view on big and mighty beards, which has always been strictly positive. What was added is a personal perspective on the matter — now it is no longer just an aspiration but my daily reality.
Here is a closer look at Michael’s bigger beard by the end of November 2020.
What’s the best thing about the year-beard journey so far?
I think that the process itself, the coming of the beard, rejoices as much as the result, which is by far not even final. Seeing the beard getting fuller and more voluminous by the month warms a man’s heart…
From this angle, the bigger volume of Michael’s beard is readily apparent. This view also shows off the height of his beard’s natural cheek line.
What are your beard plans now that you’ve reached your year-beard goal?
Keep growing it! I probably will trim a bit once in a while to keep things symmetrical, but nothing drastic, definitely.
Year-beard achievement day: Here is Michael on July 1, 2021 with a full year’s worth of unrestrained growth added to his original beard.
Do you recommend that other men give the year beard a go?
Yes, very much so! I believe that every bearded man should give it a go, and see the full potential of their beard revealed before their own eyes.
Here is Michael’s year-beard groomed to present a wider appearance.
How do you feel about having achieved your yeard?
It feels wonderful to achieve this important landmark, which I believe every dedicated beard grower should try at least once during their lives.I think such a trial of sorts is a real test of disciple, dedication, and firmness of character. It teaches calmness of mind and the ability to do what you wish, despite what anybody else might consider “right”. You should definitely give it a try!
This is a closer look at Michael’s newly-achieved “year beard” or “yeard”. It’s been quite a journey from his original start as a young teenage beard grower.
What’s it like to have a beard for more than ten years? Could you do it? Would you do it? Some guys give up on growing a beard after only a few days! Having a beard for ten years shows some serious beard dedication.
Valentin is a seriously-dedicated beard man. Up until 2009, he gained beard-growing experience by going through phases with and without his beard. Starting in August of 2009 with a completely shaved faced, Valentin grew his beard once again and has kept it ever since.
After Valentin reached the milestone of being bearded for a full decade, he reflected on his experience with us. We proudly salute Valentin for being continuously bearded since 2009 and for his tremendous dedication to the beard!
How do you feel about your current beard reaching its tenth anniversary?
These ten years passed very quickly. I have a stable feeling about the correctness of my choice. There was never a desire to shave off the beard. With the beard I feel very free and natural. I’m so used to it that being bearded is completely normal for me. I do not notice my beard in everyday life. It is as familiar as the hair on the head. I even forget that I have a beard, while someone, most often preschool children, will express their thoughts out loud about my beard. Men, with all their restraint, mostly express themselves emotionally, appreciating and admiring my beard. I always ask them why they don’t wear a beard.
Here we see how Valentin went from a shaved face to a big beard and achieved a full decade of being bearded.
Have you kept your beard about the same length and size for these ten years?
If you look at the photographs of this decade, you can see that for the first year or two, I wore a rather short beard. My barber once told me: “Why do you shave the lower part of the beard around your neck? Let the beard grow naturally. Then it will look more voluminous. The upper part of the beard hair will lean on the lower, and the beard will look bigger and more natural.” Then I looked at the photos, read the materials on your site, and realized that a full beard may not need a cheek line and neck line at all.
Following the advice of my barber, I stopped using scissors and a razor and decided to see what opportunities nature gave me, what a full beard would look like, and whether it suited me. I watched with interest the length of the hair of the beard and I liked it more and more. I discovered that I have a pretty good beard; it suits me. I don’t need to cut and shave it regularly. I just need to keep it clean and tidy.
I liked the full, big beard and realized that this beard is for me. At the same time I thought that I needed to determine my maximum size, the maximum size which would suit me. When the beard grew longer than twenty centimeters (7.9 inches), it seemed to me that the bottom of the beard became rarer, not clear, and not contrasting. I shortened my beard by six centimeters (2.4 inches) and went on a return trip: I allowed my beard to grow again freely without touching it with scissors or a trimmer. I called it “a return trip” or “a journey back through the world of beard”.
Has your beard gotten any thicker over the ten years?
Probably not. The unhindered and free growth of all the hair produces a larger volume for the size and shape of the beard. And the regular use of beard oil helps me to shape the larger volume of the beard. It seems bigger and bushier, which I like.
What have you learned about being bearded during this time?
I, myself, and people I know are so used to my bearded appearance that it does not raise questions. Being bearded has become an everyday state for me. I have no problems with it. Instead of daily morning shaving, I have a standard daily set of beard treatments that are very simple. Definitely I have learned that I will never shave my beard again.
Valentin’s lovely granddaughter is a talented photographer. She happily serves as her grandfather’s official beard photographer!
Would you describe your beard grooming and maintenance routines?
To this question I have a very standard answer. It can be found both in your beard care tips and in other recommendations. Every one of us knows what kind of hair and skin he has. Depending on this, he selects shampoo or soap and the frequency of washing the beard. I wash my beard once a week with special beard soap. On the other days of the week I rinse my beard only with water during my morning shower. However, because the beard’s hair absorbs odors of the street very much, it becomes necessary to use soap again. In this case I use a neutral soap that is recommended for children. This soap doesn’t contain various additives that make hair dry, fragile, unruly. I tried various sorts of soap, but chose this kind.
After washing my beard, I usually wipe it with a towel, making light and slow movements from top to bottom. After that I put oil on my palms, rub it in my hair, and massage my skin. I comb the beard with a wide tooth comb from the top to the bottom. Gradually I use combs with smaller teeth. Combing is accompanied by stroking the hair with my hand. I give the desired shape to the beard and allow some time to dry the hair naturally. Sometimes when going out, I use hair wax for better fixation. However, when it is windy, it is impossible to keep my long beard in good order.
In your area, are beards seen more favorably now than ten years ago?
Yes, that’s for sure. The beard has become a fashion now in our country. Until 1700, all Russian men of different classes wore beards. Russian Tsar Peter I forcibly introduced beard shaving in Russia. Those who refused had to pay a large tax for the beard. And now the beard has returned to Russia again. In big cities, barbershops are opening one after another. Young guys, students, try to grow beards, which, due to their young age, are still growing poorly in the majority. But they want to have a big, full beard right away. So they ask with a melancholy voice how to grow a big beard. Some of them rub some ointments into their skin or take medications hoping to accelerate hair growth. I think that many guys from the younger generation will become bearded men for life.
Are beards now more common in the area where you live than they were ten years ago?
Probably in all countries, small towns remain more conservative, and are more adherents of old habits and traditions. But with the current means of communication, when television, the Internet, and mobile communications are available everywhere, it is difficult to isolate oneself from the world. In advertising, in television programs, we now see men with different types of beards. The men of our small town try to keep up with the times. On the streets I can see more and more bearded men. Maybe these are their first timid attempts, but over time they will wear beautiful beards.
Have you encouraged or inspired other men to grow their beards during this time?
Over the years, a lot of guys talked with me about beards, asked questions of interest to them, and asked me to be photographed with them. I think it did not go in vain. Even my grandson, two years ago, after leaving school and entering university, began to wear a beard. Now our family has two beards.
What is the best thing about being bearded for ten years?
Joyfully and gladly I have worn my beard all these ten years. It is a good feeling to be a bearded man. One man said after talking with me about beards that this is already my disease. I don’t know. Maybe it is. But it’s just a sweet illness.
How has the world of beards changed over this ten-year period?
In recent years, the situation with beard materials has dramatically changed. This is due to the fact that the beard has become a real fashion among the male population. There was a need for more information. As a response to this need, many new websites about beards have appeared on the Internet. The advantage of the beards.org site is its carefulness, deep insight into the problem, and a versatile approach. A lot of interesting and necessary material has been accumulated here.
There was a lack of good, high-quality beard photos before. But now, with the development of photographic equipment, the possibilities have become different, and people can take pictures everywhere. The quality of the photos is different, of course, but there are plenty of them to choose from. And most importantly, there are many men with handsome and diverse beards. What a variety of faces and beards: one is better than the other.
Probably the most acute hunger for inspirational beard visuals and information has already been satisfied. Now some other stage has come. Beards.org has accumulated a large amount of material here. On your site there are so many interviews in which the invaluable experience of different people is collected. They share their thoughts and problems, among which anyone can find answers to questions of interest. I remain a fan of your site. So I am happy to share with you the tenth anniversary of my beard.
All About BEARDS is pleased to count on Valentin as a long-term, loyal friend of the site. Be sure to also see Valentin’s beard feature.
Now it’s your turn to grow your beard for ten years and more!
