Hi Family,

Change is one of life’s constants, yet letting go of what’s familiar can feel like a huge challenge. As we transition through seasons—literally and figuratively—we’re often called to release old habits, mindsets, or attachments to make space for growth. Just as trees shed their leaves in the fall, letting go is a natural and necessary part of life’s cycle.

Whether it’s a relationship, a belief, or even a dream, learning to let go is a skill that propels us toward who we’re meant to become.

Why does letting go matter and how can we navigate this process gracefully and purposefully?

What Do We Need to Let Go?

John Maxwell said, “We have to give up to go up.” This wisdom reminds us that to reach new heights (such as our next dream), we must leave behind what no longer serves us, remember, “the us” includes our family or community when applicable.

Dreams, whether big or small, often begin with a call to release something. It might be an unhealthy habit, a limiting belief, or a relationship that no longer aligns with our purpose or core values. Letting go can feel counterintuitive—like losing instead of gaining—but it’s essential for transformation.

What is holding us back from moving to the next level in our journey?

How Do We Learn to Let Go?

Letting go often starts with forgiveness. In our book, I shared a personal journey of forgiving someone who betrayed me. I did not know how to forgive him until I read Matt 6:14-15. These verses say that if we do not forgive others then God will not forgive us. Say what? Holding on to that pain only hindered my growth. When I realized that I had to forgive him to free myself, I was able to let go and move forward. I felt light, I had learned to let it go. That year I went on to pursue a PhD  in biochemistry, a childhood dream.

Letting go isn’t just about forgiving others; it’s also about forgiving yourself. I blamed myself for getting into that situation in the first place. These old habits, deeply rooted beliefs, and past mistakes can weigh us down. Recognizing what we need to release—it’s not always the person we need to let go- try not to be so quick to make judgments. Pay attention, sometimes what seems to be the problem is not always the problem.

Why Does Growth Feel Like Loss?

Growth often masquerades as loss. When I moved from Canada—a place I thought would be my forever home—it felt like I was tearing down everything I had built. I left behind routines, relationships, and even a cherished sense of normalcy. I felt deeply distraught. It was evident in my behavior.

Yet, what felt like loss was preparation for a greater purpose. The move stretched me spiritually, mentally, emotionally, and relationally. I did not know back then that five years later I would have a blog and a book, also dreams I had from when I was a child. It was a reminder that God’s plans often lead to growth we can’t yet see.

How Do We Grieve the Losses?

Every change involves some form of loss. Whether it’s a person, a place, or a sense of identity, grieving is an essential part of letting go. Grief isn’t limited to the death of a loved one—it can accompany any event that disrupts our sense of normal.

According to the Cleveland Clinic, grief is the process of coping with loss. Skipping this step can lead to unresolved emotions that hinder growth. Acknowledging our feelings and giving ourselves permission to grieve is an act of self-care.

I cry. Sometimes I clean. It is how I grieve. We often believe that a person is weak for crying, but even Jesus the Son of God, God incarnate wept. Nothing is wrong with crying. I cry asking God to help me get through it, and He sure does, every time. After I cry, I release the need to control the outcome and allow God to do what only He can do.

Are we too strong to cry? Have we locked ourselves from feeling?

How Do We Maintain Clarity Through Change?

Navigating change requires a clear head. This means prioritizing mental health, establishing routines, and taking intentional steps to manage stress.

During times of transition, fear and insecurity often creep in. We might find ourselves questioning our decisions or feeling impulsive to act immediately to gain that control. It’s important to recognize these emotions and address them with grace. A strong foundation in our core values can guide us through the uncertainty.

If we are unaware of our core values, knowing our “why” is essential to keeping our focus. During the difficult periods of my PhD when the experiments were not working or when the answers we sought were unclear, and it appeared as if graduating was just an imagination, I would try to gain some control by seeking a job. 

“Why should I complete this PhD?” I would ask myself repeatedly.

“I could always get a job.”

But was my dream a job or the PhD? Not being able to see the end cause doubt to enter my mind. And although I had a community that encouraged me, my mind kept searching for a reason why I should continue.

Despite what the dream looks like now, try not to give up. Take a break, seek counsel from those who share our values, or speak to people who love us. 

But don’t give up! 

My PhD lasted 4.5 years, not that long now when I look back. The fear, doubt, and uncertainty I experienced were just in my mind.

How Do You Let Go in Peace?

Letting go doesn’t mean forgetting or dismissing your experiences—it means releasing them with gratitude and peace. This act of release allows us to embrace the new opportunities God has for us.

Sometimes, letting go is an act of faith. It’s trusting that what’s ahead is better (in terms of growth not just feeling better) than what we’re leaving behind. When we align with our core values and focus on the bigger picture, letting go becomes less about loss and more about gain.

Final Thoughts

Letting go is rarely easy, but it’s a vital part of personal growth. Whether we’re shedding old beliefs, habits, or attachments, remember that every ending creates space for a new beginning.

The process may bring grief, but it also brings clarity, peace, and the strength to embrace what’s next. As you navigate your season of letting go, ask yourself: What am I holding onto that’s holding me back?

Release it, and step boldly into the future waiting for you.

Stay tuned as we continue to DREAM, CHANGE, and GROW!

Love,

Sanchia and team.