New Year, New Me

One of the big changes I made at the end of 2025 was shaving off my moustache. I’ve had a moustache since mid-2020; I talked about my reasons for growing one in my post called My Moustache. I think it looked really good, and it made me feel connected to my Middle Eastern heritage — both Greek and Arab. It was a pretty prominent feature and people would compliment me on the street for it.

But after 5 years, I was starting to feel overshadowed by the moustache. I think I was leaning too hard on it as part of my personality. When I talked about changing it up, my wife and kids would get upset — like I wouldn’t be the same person without it. It felt a little uncomfortable.

So, I decided to take the opportunity of the New Year to learn who I am without a handlebar moustache. I’m going to try living without a moustache for the whole of 2026; we’ll see how far I get. I am enjoying the freedom of being able to eat and drink much more neatly, and my bare lip does not require the same amount of care and grooming as it used to.

Thanks to all the nice people who have complimented my new look. To those who regret the loss of my distinguishing characteristic: I get it! It’s a little jarring to see this bare face without its central feature. I feel a little like a Mr. Potatohead with a missing accessory.

Anyway, that’s where it went, and why.

#face #me #moustache #personal