For centuries, the world has equated long hair with beauty and femininity. Lately, however, women have been trading in their long flowing locks for a shorter style. Have you ever thought about cutting your hair? Have you been debating the pros and cons but still feel too nervous to take the plunge? If you need a reason to get a new style, look no further. Here is my list of five reasons why you should cut your hair.

1. Hair grows back.

It's true. Hair really does grow back. Short hair will eventually become long hair again. Even though it won't grow back right away, the time will give you a chance to try new styles, find a new look that works for you, and, who knows, you may fall in love with it in the end.

2. Change.

Cutting off your hair can be a great way to get a fresh start. After I cut my hair, I felt rejuvenated and enlivened. I had been so nervous about how it would turn out that when I finally saw myself in the mirror, I was shocked at how good my hair looked and couldn't remember the last time I had felt so refreshed. It was a wonderful stress reliever as well. Both you and your hair will feel better.

3. A quick routine.

My hair is thick and wavy, and never cooperated with what I wanted when it was long. My morning routine mostly involved taming my hair. Now, however, the time it takes me to get ready is cut in half and I have time to sit and relax before a hectic day of classes begins. Your days of detangling hair products and losing hairbands will be gone! Your shower time (and water and shampoo usage) will go down due to the easiness of washing your hair. And you won't have to wake up early just to style your hair.

4. Confidence is key.

Often, long hair can be used as a source of security to hide behind. Without that curtain of hair to hide in, short hair will bring out your lovely face. After you change your hair, there will be about a week where people will gasp and exclaim, "Your hair! I barely recognized you!" and that is not always a bad thing. It's a sure-fire way to get compliments and bolster your confidence.

5. Be a risk taker.

Cutting off your hair is a huge decision and a huge risk. Taking this kind of risk can add a lot to your confidence and make that fresh start even better, though.

Go ahead, Google some new hairstyles and looks. You'll never really know if you like short hair until you try it.