How many of us have held onto things much longer than we should have? Whether it’s a relationship, friendship, job or our favorite jeans we’re trying to lose five pounds to get back into, we’ve all been guilty. The thing is, when we hold onto things too long we’re literally taking up the space that something better could be occupying. So how do you know when it’s time to let go? Here are a few signs:
It’s Stressing You Out
Just living life, there’s a certain amount of stress we’re all going to experience. It’s impossible to be 100% stress free. However, all stress isn’t created equal. There’s some stress that’s avoidable. Ask yourself, “Is this thing that’s stressing me out necessary? Is it something that will ultimately benefit me in the end?” If the answers to these questions are no, then you probably need to let that thing go. Prolonged stress isn’t healthy. A number of studies have shown the negative impacts prolonged stress can have on your health, from ulcers to heart disease to cancer.
No Reciprocity
Lack of reciprocity is truly draining on the spirit. Constantly giving of yourself, your time and your resources, without ever getting anything back in return, is unsustainable. These one-way situations usually lead to burn out, resentment and stress. Now, I’m not saying that every interaction you have should be a one for one exchange, but there should be balance, especially in your frequent and ongoing relationships. If you’re not experiencing reciprocity in these situations, it might be a sign that it’s time for you to let some things go.
Is It Fruitful Though?
I’m not big on exercises in futility and I don’t like wasting my time. While fruit doesn’t pop up overnight, when you’re putting in the work, it should show up eventually. If you’re putting a lot of time, energy and effort into something, but it’s not producing any results that might be a sign that you need to let it go. Prior to launching Nzuri Noire, I had a t-shirt line. Despite all the pop up events, ads, online stores, etc. that t-shirt line was going nowhere fast. So what did I do? I let it go. It was one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to do, but it wasn’t fruitful. Letting go of the t-shirt line made space for me to launch Nzuri Noire.
What are some of the signs you’ve experienced that have let you know it’s time to let go? Drop it in the comments.
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