When it comes to career changes and personal growth, age is just a number, as the saying goes. And for Phil Yates, the decision to leave his marketing job and pursue a new path as a barber at 60 years old is a testament to that.
Yates' story is an inspiring one, especially considering the initial apprehension he felt about sharing his plans with his father. His dad, a former fishmonger and factory worker, had a pragmatic approach to life, emphasizing the importance of security and stability. So, when Yates revealed his desire to leave marketing and become a barber, he expected resistance. But, to his surprise, his father's response was one of encouragement and support, a blessing that almost brought Yates to tears.
"It was a huge moment for him to let go of his concerns about safety and security and instead tell me to go after my true passion." Yates reflects on his father's words, a significant shift in perspective for a man who had lived through tough times as a child on the streets.
Despite never having cut hair professionally or even for friends, Yates' journey into barbering began with a bold step. He enrolled in a full-time barbering school, surrounded by students half his age. The age gap was noticeable, but Yates' enthusiasm and determination quickly won over his peers and instructors. His journey led him to Hava & Co, a high-end barbershop in Auckland, where he was offered a unique opportunity to work during the Christmas period, an offer that turned into a long-term position.
Yates' background in fashion and graphic design adds a unique dimension to his barbering style. His trademark pompadour, inspired by rockabilly music and its raw energy, sets him apart. He curates cutting playlists, bringing his love for music into his work, and even hosts his own internet radio show, "Grits and Grease."
"Barbering has brought me an inner happiness and a vibrancy that was missing before. It's an incredible satisfaction to create something magnificent with my hands every day." Yates explains, highlighting the therapeutic nature of his work and the instant gratification it provides.
In a world where many people feel stuck in their careers, Yates' story serves as a reminder that it's never too late to pursue your passions. His journey is a beautiful example of how a simple career change can bring about a new lease of life, offering a deeper sense of fulfillment and happiness.
"With scissors, you can create something magnificent." Yates' words resonate, inspiring others to take that leap of faith and embrace the unknown, just as he did.
