We launched Straightface because we wanted to create a service that we would also use. The challenge then is how to market it. We sell pretty awesome razors and we make it easier by delivering them straight to your door. Let's be honest, we are not reinventing the wheel here or curing cancer. I know that I always feel better after I shave. So I wanted to use that idea of positivity in our brand.
We wanted to stand for something inclusive rather than exclusive. Everyone can divide people. It is the easy path. But, I wanted to try to make people smile.
The idea is sound but the execution is the real challenge. And it's an ongoing process. Things take so long to get finished and other things sidetrack you. But the journey is the focus, moving forward. The joy in action.
Ignore the haters
However, there are still people that want to rain on that parade. People comment on social media that haven't tried us, or even know what we do.
At first, I used to get really frustrated with them. If they had tried Straightface and didn't like it, sure, feel free to voice your experience, but to not try us and then just shit on it, it didn't feel right.
Hurt People Hurt People
I switched from annoyance to feeling sorry for them. Instead of trying to add to the world they just want to tear it down. Someone in a good place wouldn't want to do this. It is the act of someone that isn't happy.
We all have these people in our lives. Sometimes we are these people. I know from time to time I get jealous of others rather than be happy for their success.
So now when we get people commenting unfairly on social media I try my best to kill them with kindness. Spread some joy or laughter at them.
As Martin Luther King Jr said:
Moment of Gratitude
Another family member has had their first baby. However, living in lockdown in Auckland, I can't just go see the new family. I did get a late-night text asking if I could cook food for them to freeze so they had food once they got back home.
Last night and tonight I have been cooking for them. I made chilli and it's a bit spicy, which I worry might be tough for the baby. But, a big but here, pepper is spicy to me. Yes, I am a typical white guy that gets butter chicken at Indian Restaurants. And I stand by it, it is delicious.
I hope the chilli isn't actually spicy. We will wait and see about that.
I feel happy that I have the time, capacity, and resources to be able to spend a few hours making food for them and remove some burden for them as new parents.
Also, selfishly pleased they like my cooking enough for me to be the first person they went to.
Be Awesome, Shave Well, Choose Love.
Luke
