We’re often told, “Never give up.” It sounds noble, even inspiring. But here’s the hard truth I learnt: sometimes, the bravest thing you can do is to let go. Not because you didn’t try hard enough, but because holding on can cost you more than walking away.

The Business That Taught Me Everything
I started a food business with a strong vision. The location was perfect, the rent was reasonable, and I had done all my calculations—except for one crucial detail: I hadn’t planned for how I’d support my family during the initial phase when the business wasn’t making enough to sustain us. I poured my heart, energy, and savings into it, believing that sheer passion and hard work would carry me through.

But reality doesn’t always follow passion’s script. I could see the cracks forming. The numbers didn’t lie—the business wasn’t sustainable. Yet, the idea was so dear to me that I held onto it, hoping things would magically turn around. Looking back, I realise that if I had let it go sooner, I could have saved a significant portion of my savings. But pride, emotional attachment, and fear of failure kept me tethered to a sinking ship.

The Job Search Loop
After closing the business, I faced another challenge: finding a job. I applied to countless positions using the same approach—same CV, same cover letter, same strategy. And guess what? I got the same result every time: rejection.

It was easy to blame the system, biases, and external factors. Maybe some of those reasons were valid. But deep down, I knew there was another truth: I wasn’t trying differently. I was stuck in a loop, expecting different outcomes from the same effort.

The Shift That Changed Everything
Frustrated and tired, I decided to approach things differently. I started reading job descriptions carefully, understanding what each role genuinely required. Instead of sending the same generic application, I tailored my CV and cover letter to reflect how my skills matched each specific role.

The result? Interview calls started coming in.

It wasn’t magic. It wasn’t luck. It was simply the willingness to change my approach.

Personal Life: The Same Principle Applies
This lesson isn’t just for careers or business; it applies to personal relationships too. Sometimes, you meet someone who seems interesting, and you try to build a relationship. But as time goes on, you realise it isn’t a viable option. Holding onto it despite the signs leads to unnecessary suffering and emotional pain. However, if you choose to let go and move on, you open yourself up to new connections that could be healthier, happier, and more fulfilling.

The Lessons I Carry Forward

1. Go All In, But Know When to Let Go: Trying with all your heart is noble. But clinging to something that isn’t working out of fear or pride can cost more than you realise.
2. Don’t Expect New Results from Old Efforts: If you keep doing the same thing, you’ll keep getting the same outcome. Change your approach, not just your expectations.
3. Failure Isn’t the Opposite of Success; It’s Part of It: Every misstep taught me something invaluable. Without those failures, I wouldn’t have the clarity I have today.

Closing Thoughts
Trying and failing isn’t the problem. Holding on to something that no longer serves you is. The best things in my life didn’t come from stubbornly clinging to old dreams. They came when I had the courage to move on.

So if you’re standing at a crossroads, wondering whether to hold on or let go, ask yourself: Is this serving me, or am I just afraid to fail? The answer might surprise you—and set you free.