I failed No-Shave November in multiple ways. Not only did I shave on November 22nd; I raised exactly zero dollars.

For those that don’t know, No-Shave November is a month-long journey during which participants forgo shaving and grooming to raise awareness and funds for men’s cancers.

Normally clean shaven, in November of 2016 and 2017, I have treated the month off as a welcomed break from the daily task of shaving and a great way to raise some funds for a good cause.  

In 2016, I raised nearly $500 to support the cause and in 2017 I set my sights on doubling that. 

Back to me failing… 

I failed the shaving challenge because of a personal decision to shave before the family festivities started for thanksgiving. 

I failed to raise any money because I only sent out one link to my fundraising page. Now this lack of awareness creation as not mistake. I knew full well that without sending out the link I could not raise money.

I started growing my beard starting in late October because I didn’t want to look like a bum with a 6 day shadow going at Dreamforce, the Salesforce Marketing and IT conference. 

Throughout the month some people would comment on my facial hair, after hearing my “men’s cancer awareness” pitch a few people requested a link to be able to contribute. 

Again I couldn’t bring myself to send the link. 

A potential reason for the lack of drive... 

Starting in mid October our beloved dog, Lady, lost the use of her legs. Nearly every waking minute of the few weeks she lived with this affliction were dedicated to her care or driving to/from appointments. 

Now I am not trying to compare my dogs incident to a human suffering from cancer but the experience got me thinking about the things I spend my time on and the causes I support.

Men’s cancer is a great cause and I have several personal connections who have been treated for, survived and/or died with one of these diseases but it’s not MY cause.

In 2018, if my professional schedule allows, I will still take a break from shaving to support my fellow growers in their quest to raise awareness of men’s cancers but I will not be collecting donations.

In 2018, I vow to find MY cause and raise funds for its benefit.