This week, my life changed. It’s all for the good, but with all growth, we must also leave something behind.
Or someone.
We may even be that someone, if it’s time for another’s growth.
Over the years, I have embraced all the change life and work has thrown at me. This time is no different. I have a mostly new team and look forward to learning more about their work and how to best help them in the coming months.
However, I must say goodbye to the team I’ve built over the last 2+ years.
It’s time for them to move on to the next step in their journey. Like kids going off to college, it’s time for them to leave the nest.
I didn’t expect it to be this difficult to let go. I didn’t expect to grieve.
It hit me hard. I worked from home one day, leading up to the announcement. With my head on the counter, I let it all consume me.
Brushing the tears away, I realized what a gift they have given me. Not the hard work and accomplishments. But how they have transformed me. Made me a better leader. More self-aware and compassionate.
While I grieve, I am also very proud. So proud of what we built. Most of it, the world will never see. It is something to be felt and I wouldn’t trade it for anything.
Over the years – of different homes, schools, friends, companies, roles, and mentors – I’ve taught myself to look forward so that I’m not reeling from what I’ve left behind.
What I’ve finally learned is that it’s okay to look back. To remember with fondness the relationships, the challenges, the triumphs. To cherish what was great, even when we have to let go and move on to the next step in our journey.
The next time change comes, don’t be sad what you have is over. Be grateful that it happened.
