Letting Go to Move Forward
Last week, we talked about the courage it takes to show up vulnerably and build authentic connection. That it’s in the messy, uncertain space where real growth happens. Today, I want to explore a truth that’s just as important but often harder to face: sometimes, moving forward means letting go of relationships that no longer serve us.
I heard something recently on Jon Acuff’s podcast that really stuck with me. He described how our social circle can greatly impact our lives. Some friends throw fuel on our dreams: encouraging us, cheering us on, telling us the truth when we need it most. Others throw water: watering down our excitement, dampening our momentum, or making us question our own worth.
Who are the people in your life who make you feel seen when you share your biggest dreams? Who cheers the loudest for your wins? Who challenges you kindly but honestly? These are the ones who throw fuel.
Who waters down your accomplishments? Who makes you feel like you need to shrink your success to make them comfortable? Who leaves you questioning whether your dreams are realistic or worthy?
Recognizing these dynamics can be painful, especially when the relationships involved are close and long-standing. In my work, I’ve witnessed clients facing the heartbreak of stepping away from a marriage that no longer supports their growth or having to distance themselves from a longtime friend whose energy no longer aligns with who they are becoming.
In the business world, I’ve also seen people choose to step back from partnerships or professional relationships that stifle innovation or make them question their own value. Maybe it’s the colleague who dismisses new ideas, or a mentor who inadvertently keeps you stuck in old patterns rather than pushing you to grow. These relationships can quietly drain your confidence and keep you from stepping fully into your potential.
These decisions are never easy. They come with grief and sometimes guilt but they also make room. Moving forward requires space for new energy, new ideas, and new encouragement. It means surrounding yourself with people who fuel you, not drain you.
Letting go is an act of courage and care, just like choosing connection was last week. It’s not about cutting people out harshly or burning bridges. It’s about protecting your growth by choosing where you invest your time, heart, and trust. The best part of this work is that you can be the kind of person who throws fuel for others.
If last week was about stepping into connection with courage, this week is about stepping into boundaries with love and wisdom. Both are essential.
Where might you need to let go or step back in order to make room for people who throw fuel on your dreams? And where can you be that person for someone else? Who in your life needs encouragement, honest feedback, or celebration right now? How can you show up for them in a way that helps them move forward, just like you want for yourself?
Building this kind of community takes intention and practice, but it’s the kind of connection that sustains momentum through all of life’s ups and downs.
If this resonates with you, I’m here to help you navigate that process—whether through coaching, community, or conversation. Because progress is people-powered, and the right people can change everything.
Let’s Keep Building Together
If this post spoke to you, imagine what could happen when you start growing your world with intentional connection. Whether you want to deepen your relationships, create new opportunities, or simply feel more supported, I’m here to help.
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