Knotty Boy Vision and Core Values
Empowering the world, one head at a time
When this whole Knotty Boy thing first began way back in September 1998, to be honest we had no idea we were even starting a company. All we knew was that there was a desperate need for a good, all-natural product specifically for starting and maintaining dreadlocks out there, and since it was apparent that no such thing existed at that time, we developed something ourselves that worked - and worked really, really well. So well, in fact, that before we even knew what was happening we were up to our ears in what was quickly becoming much more than just the rapid success of a line of hair products for dreadlocks. It seemed a whole phenomenon was emerging; a culture made up of every kind of person you can imagine with a common love for dreadlocks connecting them all around the world, and becoming what we affectionately began referring to as the Knotty Boy family.
And we were just kids in our very early 20's, still trying to figure out who the heck we were, what the heck we were going to do with our lives and where the heck we fit into the big picture, just like so many of you out there.
All this to say: we get it.
From the kid constantly picked on at school for having bad hair, to the 30-something still resisting the whole growing-up, being-boring thing, to the metal-head wanting to set herself apart from the norm, to the peace-lover using his outward appearance to express the values of his innermost heart - regardless of the reason you chose to get or have dreadlocks, we understand. You are a part of a global family that knows exactly how you feel, and you are never alone.
Through the thousands of emails and letters we've received over the years, we have become intimately acquainted with your struggles, your uncertainties, your challenges and your victories. Most of the time it's not so much about getting or having dreadlocks as it is about finding yourself, figuring out what matters in life, letting go of fears and jumping in.
This is why our mission is to help empower the world, one head at a time. It sounds idealistic, but we like to aim high around here! From our customers in every corner of the planet, to our Knotty Boy staff and associates, to people that are just hearing about Knotty Boy for the first time through a magazine article or from a friend - we want to convey to you our commitment to uplifting, respecting, supporting and encouraging anyone who comes in contact with us here at Knotty Boy, dreadlocks or no dreadlocks.
Be yourself. Be conscious of your influence on others. Take chances. Don't worry what 'they' might say. Keep your eye on the big picture and don't sweat the small stuff (because hey, it's all small stuff). Think before you buy. Be a positive force for change in your own little piece of the world, even if it's simply just showing others that they don't have to be afraid to express themselves, either. Stand up for what you believe in.
You never know who you might be encouraging or influencing out there, just by being you!
Knotty Boy's Core Values are:
Relationships - putting our whole hearts into relationships of quality with our Knotty Kids, and with each other in the Knotty Boy team.
Education - destroying myths that surround the dreadlock culture and re-educating through what we communicate via media, website and contact with our customers and others.
Empowerment - inspiring others to be themselves, abandon fears, take positive risks in life and do good in the world in the world around them.
Integrity - commitment to making the highest quality products we possible can, to conduct our business honestly, and to be ethical in all things.
Socially Aware - being conscious of our sphere of influence, the people that look to us for direction and being aware of our social responsibilities on a global scale. Also constantly moving toward being a more environmentally-conscious and sustainable business, and partnering with and supporting other sustainable businesses.
Energy - Lets not forget about having fun!! Using our energy to embrace youthfulness that doesn't care how old you are and to drive us to be better in all things, as a business and as individuals.
We have so much planned for the next months and years to come with Knotty Boy we can barely stand it. Our biggest struggle is to be patient and not want to attempt to do everything now, now, NOW - even while we already have more on our plates than we can handle. Thanks for being patient along with us, and for all the little notes of encouragement and support you've poured upon us over the years. They mean the world to us, Knotty family!
And hey, we know we're not perfect - we're still learning so much as we go. But you can help us know what we're doing right and where we can improve through our Knotty Boy 5 Second Survey, or send us an email with your thoughts any time. We love feedback - thanks so much!