Letting go is an act of deep wisdom. It’s easy to overcomplicate or even romanticize the idea of letting go, but it’s quite simple, as most wise things are. In essence, letting go is recognizing that a specific part of your life has served its purpose, that you have learned its lessons, and that it is time to move forward. Sometimes, we let go of painful experiences, limited ways of thinking about ourselves, or behaviors that no longer contribute to our highest sense of self.
Often, we hold on to what is familiar, even when it no longer nourishes us, out of fear or because it’s what we are used to. But true freedom comes when we choose to let go, not because we are forced to, but because we understand that we are in control of our growth path–and who our future selves will become.
Recognizing When It Is Time
To let go, we must first listen deeply. We must look within and ask ourselves if the path we’re on still brings us peace, joy, and understanding. Often, we know when something is no longer right for us–a relationship, a job, a belief–yet we hesitate. We worry about the uncertainty of change. But clinging to what no longer serves us is like trying to hold on to water. It slips through our fingers, leaves us empty and anxious, and, ultimately, unable to take in what will nourish us.
Recognizing we’re done with a certain part of our lives isn’t a cause for fear. It’s a precious opportunity. When we choose to release what no longer aligns with our true selves, we can step forward into our own love. Letting go is an act of care, self-love, and compassion. It’s not a tragic severance of self. It’s a way we honor ourselves through loving transformation.
Choosing Growth with Mindfulness
Growth doesn’t come through forcing or rushing. It comes from being present and embracing each moment with awareness and understanding. When we choose to let go mindfully, we do so with a sense of peace. We don’t need to wait until we are pushed by suffering or things beyond our control. Because that’s not true letting go–that’s being forced to change from the outside. By paying attention to what no longer serves us, we can embrace our own power and self-trust, and lovingly say to ourselves, “I am ready to grow.”
This mindful choice to grow is a gift we give to ourselves. It allows us to widen our life path with an open heart while strengthening our self-understanding and proving to ourselves that we believe in our worth. That we believe we can do better. That we know we deserve better. That a better life is possible–not just for others–but for us.
The Practice of Letting Go
When you notice something you want to leave behind in your life, take a moment to pause and breathe deeply. Feel the rise and fall of your breath, the simple miracle of being alive.
As you breathe in, say to yourself, “I am here.” As you breathe out, say, “I am letting go.”
Allow yourself to release whatever is holding you back, and trust that in letting go, you are choosing a path of growth, peace, and a more beautiful life that is waiting for you.
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Thanks Cory. This really landed for me today 🙏🏼
Letting go, allowing in. Yes.