Letting go is never easy...

Yet it can have a therapeutic effect.

There's a poignant sentiment expressed in an old adage: "If you love something, let it go." This idea underscores a universal truth about the importance of detachment – in relationships, personal belongings, memories, or even professional matters. Letting go, in its many forms, is not only therapeutic but also crucial for personal and professional growth.

Letting Go in Personal Life

A friend of mine, seeing we were giving or selling away items asked me if we were entering the phase of life called “Swedish Death Cleaning” (read more here). While the circumstances are different, it was actually something that triggered a rethinking of what was important, especially from a material viewpoint.

Imagine a trinket you've cherished since childhood. It might have immense sentimental value, reminding you of an event, person, or era gone by. But over the years, as you collect more mementos and memories, you might find your space, both physical and mental, cluttered. This clutter can prevent new experiences and memories from finding a place in your life. Letting go of these possessions, no matter how precious, can create room for new treasures and experiences.

And yesterday, the hardest thing I had to do was to let go my masterpiece. While it is just material, it was part of my identity. A classic Citroen 2CV car I worked on for a couple of years and maintained with love for ten more. But it had to be done. My dream to pass it on to my kids was not to be.

The same applies to relationships. Whether it's a friendship that's drifted apart or a romantic relationship that's run its course, there comes a time when it's healthy to part ways. Holding onto people, especially out of habit or fear of loneliness, often does more harm than good. And with the recent conflict in the Middle East, it has been quite unsettling to see “friends” taking on extreme positions. Sometimes there is no benefit of the doubts. It’s in your face. It can prevent personal growth and hinder the discovery of more compatible and enriching connections. The other challenge we have to face is reaching an age which we call “the sandwich age” with my wife. Why? Because we have to take care of our parents and our kids at once. It really helps with priorities but also requires a strong mental preparation for the inevatable upcoming separation, permanent or temporary.

Letting Go in the Professional World

This principle of detachment is not confined to personal realms alone. The professional world too demands its own share of letting go.

1. Letting Go of Control: Many leaders and managers struggle with delegating. They believe that if they want something done right, they have to do it themselves. But clinging to this belief stymies the growth of their team and, ultimately, the organization. By letting go and trusting others, they not only empower their teams but also free up their time to focus on more strategic initiatives. Letting go of control fosters trust, collaboration, and innovation.
2. Letting Go of Toxicity: Just as it's essential to leave behind toxic relationships in personal life, it's crucial to do the same in the professional sphere. Whether it's a toxic work environment, a negative colleague, or a project that's draining your energy, holding onto these can hinder productivity and well-being. Letting go might mean finding a new job, ending a business partnership, or even taking a bold step to change the organizational culture. I talked about toxicity in my book “The Delivery Man” and it was one of the chapters readers thanked me the most about.
3. Letting Go of Past Failures: Success in business, much like in life, is not a straight path. There will be setbacks, failed projects, and missed opportunities. But clinging to past mistakes can prevent forward momentum. The best professionals understand that to move forward, one has to learn from failures but not be shackled by them. And it is easier said than done. The imposter syndrome feeds itself on these self-imposed doubts.

Why Letting Go is Important

So, why is it so important to master the art of letting go? (and you are welcome for me putting the song “Let it go” in your head with just one image). Here are a few reasons:

• Personal and Professional Growth: By releasing the old, you make room for the new – new experiences, ideas, relationships, and challenges that promote growth.
• Improved Mental Well-being: Letting go reduces the burden of past resentments, regrets, and unmet expectations. This can lead to reduced stress and improved mental health.
• Enhanced Productivity: In a professional context, by letting go of tasks that can be delegated, or ridding oneself of negative influences, one can focus on more essential tasks, leading to increased productivity.
• Better Relationships: By letting go of past grudges and understanding that everyone is on their unique journey, we can build stronger, more genuine relationships in both personal and professional spheres.

The art of letting go (if it is an art, or a skill, or a talent) is, paradoxically, an art of gaining. By releasing what no longer serves us, we open ourselves up to a world of new possibilities, experiences, and growth. Whether it's letting go of a cherished possession, a person, control, or past failures, this act of detachment is a step towards a brighter, more fulfilling future. As you navigate the intricate dance of life and work, remember that sometimes the most potent move is to simply let go.

As for my Citroen, I hope she will have a great life in Southern California. I must move on.