If you insist on blow-drying your hair, put in a leave-in conditioner prior to drying. This will prevent your hair from drying out and consequently, falling out, when it is blow-dried. Unless it is necessary, avoid blow drying hair to help protect your hair from the damaging heat associated with blow drying.
If you are curly headed you should only wash the hair once or twice per week. Shampooing can deplete the natural oils required of curly hair to keep it healthy and shiny. Ensure you completely wash out the shampoo.
Though your current hairstyle may be "comfortable" for you because you have worn it for years, do not fear change. Hair styles are constantly in flux. Styles you may have overlooked because of apprehension about change, can give you a new feel and confidence, as you step out of your comfort zone.
Don't use straighteners on your hair every single day. Subjecting your hair to any type of heat will cause the structure of your hair to weaken over time. Once your hair's structure is weak, your hair will be more susceptible to breakage. If you have to use a straightener every day, make sure that you invest in a good heat protectant spray.