Yes, I've had one of those "It's not a phase, mom" phases. It happens to the best of us, right? Right. At least, that's what I tell myself. As I was going through my different phases, one of my favorite ways to express myself was through dyeing my hair.

Even though I'm originally an extremely dark brunette, few people knew that for years because I went from being brunette to blonde, to red (that was the phase), back to blonde and, now, I'm finally back to brunette after about 4 years of confusing the masses. Whether it was from doing ombré, baylage, higlgihts or lowlights, my hair has been one of my favorite ways to express myself.

I started dyeing my hair when I was in 8th grade. It was a littleee extreme, but I don't regret it for a second. When dyeing your hair, you live for the moments people do a double take in the hall or ask you what's different about your look. Those moments give you an instant confidence boost because there's suddenly an air of mystery about you. Or, even if there isn't, you think that there is and that's all that really matters.

By dyeing my hair, I've been able to test out different looks while knowing that nothing will ever be permanent because, well, hair will continue to grow. Even if you don't love a look at first, it grows on you after a while. And, even if it doesn't, then you can get even more excited planning the next color or shade or trend you've been stalking on Pinterest. (Yes, I have a "Hair" Pinterest board, who doesn't?)

Looking through stylists' or celebrites' Instagrams to find that next perfect look can turn into an all day affair and is one of the best distractions from that annoying theology paper you have due next week. Daring yourself to be bold not only affects how others see you, but how you see yourself.

Even making the smallest change to your hair means you had the confidence to take a chance and push your boundaries. If you've ever asked yourself, "I wonder what I would look like as a (blank)," you know what I'm talking about. By being able to make the decision to dye your hair, you're proving to yourself that you have the ability to try something new without knowing every little reprecussion.

Confidence is a superpower. It can make you happier and let you live your life by your own set of rules. But, like all good things in life, it's hard to come by sometimes. Dyeing your hair has made me feel like a new person to such an extent that it's given me the confidence to laugh a little louder and speak up a little louder. And that's all you can ask for sometimes.