There are three little words that can truly change your life.
Let. It. Go.
Now, before your mind jumps to a certain animated movie soundtrack, let me assure you—this isn’t about ice castles or fairy tales. It’s about leadership. It’s about growth. It’s about becoming the best version of yourself.
The Power of Letting Go
When we think about growth—personally or professionally—we often focus on what we need to add: new habits, skills, or routines. But sometimes, real progress comes not from what we take on, but from what we’re willing to release.
Letting go isn’t passive. It’s an intentional choice. It requires awareness and courage. And often, it begins with recognizing what’s no longer serving us.
Here are some of the things I believe we all might need to let go of.
Memories
We all have memories that bring us joy—and we should hold onto those. But there are also memories that carry pain, regret, or shame. Some of those memories may be quietly shaping our self-image or influencing our decisions in ways we don’t even realize. If certain memories are holding you back rather than helping you grow, maybe it’s time to let them go.
Guilt and Shame
Yes, guilt can be useful when it prompts reflection and change. But holding onto guilt or shame long after a lesson has been learned serves no purpose. Carrying them indefinitely only weighs you down. If you’re still burdened by guilt or shame that no longer serves you, let it go.
Habits
Habits are powerful. They allow us to function efficiently throughout our day. But not all habits are helpful. Some—like procrastination, defensiveness, or negative self-talk—slow our progress or undermine our relationships. You probably know which habits I’m talking about in your own life. The ones you’re better off letting go.
Ideas
Some ideas might have been useful once but have outlived their usefulness. Maybe they were formed from outdated assumptions or someone else’s influence. If your current reality contradicts an old idea you've clung to, ask yourself whether it still deserves space in your mind.
Beliefs
Beliefs are deeply rooted. They shape how we see the world and ourselves. But not all beliefs are based in truth. Not all beliefs are helpful. And some are simply no longer accurate. If you hold beliefs about yourself, others, or the world that limit your potential, maybe it’s time to reconsider them.
Identities
We define ourselves in many ways: “I’m not good at math,” “I’m not athletic,” “I’m not a leader.” But are those statements still true? Were they ever true? Sometimes we accept labels or identities that were handed to us years ago. If a part of your identity is holding you back instead of lifting you up, it may be time to release it.
Stuff
Yes, even the physical clutter in your garage or attic may need to go. It might not seem connected to your leadership journey—but clutter of any kind can create mental weight. Letting go of physical things can be a symbolic and literal fresh start.
So here’s your challenge:
What are the things, ideas, beliefs, or memories you’re holding onto that aren’t serving you?
If you can name them, it might be time to let them go.
Leadership isn’t just about acquiring more—it’s also about releasing what no longer fits the person you’re becoming.
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