When you start a new job, yes it might be hard to take a new leap, but it’s surrounded by excitement and the prospects of what could be. You’re energized and ready to take on the world! Same goes for a new workout plan – Monday morning comes and you’re pumped to try your new routine and see how your life changes.
But when you’ve been doing something for a few years, and the excitement and satisfaction you felt every day is no longer there, how do you know it’s time to “exit stage left.”
I recently (well, pre-pandemic) went to a conference as a 4th time returning member and I was unexpectedly hit in the face with the realization that this may no longer be my place and it’s time to move on. I remember that first conference like it was yesterday. I was intimidated, but elated that I found a group of people that were just like me, looking for the same things in life and coming together for a weekend to change the world (hasn’t happened yet, but we’re working on it!). It wasn’t hard to sign up.
Every year came with a different theme and new connections, but I wasn’t growing and still connecting with all the OG’s. It was fun, I learned a lot and grew professionally and personally, but not in the same way as I did in the first few years.
The reality hit me – the conversations and people in this group no longer align with where I am in the world. It was time to move on. But how do you let go of something that has molded you into who you are today? How do you pivot to something else when there is nothing wrong with what you are doing, but it’s no longer serving you?
Think about YOUR relationships, commitments, fitness routines, and friendships and ask yourself:
- Are you getting the same fulfillment that you did when you first started?
- Are you doing this/staying in this relationship out of obligation, or because you still feel connected and energized?
- Is your involvement serving the other people in the relationship?
- Do you still have a clear WHY you are doing this?
Life is full of pivots and that’s ok. Trying new things and letting go of the what is no longer serving us helps us grow and become a version of ourselves.
Caution: don’t throw your commitments or people (not really throw them – you know what I mean) out the window in favor of that new shiny penny.
Just make sure your time and energy is being given to the things that truly enhance your life.
Inspired Best Self 