Maybe try to commit yourself to styling it just once a week? I see how you are saying it's an asset you want to show off so I guess you shouldn't give up on it. So something like this idea has got to work!

I plan to have mine specially braided for a formal event. Maybe once a month or so go in to have the hair dresser do it before you go out to dinner or if you have a formal event. Take pictures!!
__________________
"I'm not crazy, I'm just a little impaired
I know, right now you don't care
But soon enough you're gonna think of me
And how I used to be, me"

Matchbox20 Unwell
Bipolar
Lithium 300 mg. 3 caps
Abilify 2 mg
Lamictal 200 mg
Naltrexone 50 mg (Alcohol cravings)
Topimax 25 mg