2.  Trim with a beard trimmer

3.  Don't shave

4.  Think about using hair conditioner on the beard (it makes it softer)

5.  Get used to being able to see something on your face.

6.  Use the beard to hide things

7.  Avoid getting food in it - runny egg is a particular problem

I kept my beard for about 2 years on and off - it has been gone for about 4 months now - I think it will come back again someday