We often think of letting go as something we do when faced with significant life changes, but in reality, releasing what no longer serves us is a practice we can (and should) engage in regularly. Whether it’s outdated beliefs, toxic habits, or commitments that drain more than they give, learning to let go creates space for greater clarity, fulfillment, and success.

If you’re feeling stuck or weighed down, here are seven things to let go of right now to realign with your purpose and move forward with confidence.

1. The Need for Constant Approval

Seeking validation from others can keep you from making decisions that truly align with your values. When you constantly seek approval, you hand over control of your happiness and success to external forces.

Let it go by: Practicing self-trust. The next time you make a decision, ask yourself, “Does this align with my values?” instead of “Will others approve?”

2. Comparing Yourself to Others

Comparison is a fast track to self-doubt. Whether it’s career progress, financial success, or personal milestones, measuring yourself against others often leads to unnecessary stress and frustration.

Let it go by: Focusing on your growth. Track your progress over time instead of measuring yourself against someone else’s journey.

3. Perfectionism

Perfectionism keeps you stuck in a cycle of overthinking and inaction. When you strive for an impossible standard, you rob yourself of the joy of progress and learning.

Let it go by: Redefining success. Aim for excellence, not perfection. Progress matters more than perfection.

4. Fear of Change

Sticking to what’s familiar—even when it’s not working—can keep you from reaching new opportunities. Growth requires change, even when it feels uncomfortable.

Let it go by: Embracing discomfort as a sign of growth. Instead of resisting change, ask yourself, “What new possibilities could this bring?”

5. Saying Yes When You Mean No

Overcommitting to things that don’t align with your goals leads to burnout and resentment. Whenever you say yes to something misaligned, you say no to something that truly matters.

Let it go by: Practicing boundaries. Give yourself permission to say no without guilt or over-explanation.

6. The Stories You Tell Yourself About Who You Are

The narratives we hold about ourselves shape our reality. If you’ve convinced yourself that you’re not good at something or that leadership isn’t for you, those beliefs will hold you back.

Let it go by: Rewriting the script. Replace limiting beliefs with empowering statements, like, “I am capable of leading in my own way.”

7. Holding onto Roles That No Longer Fit

Sometimes, we stay in roles—whether personal or professional—out of habit or obligation rather than genuine passion or purpose. Letting go of outdated roles doesn’t mean failure; it means making room for something better.

Let it go by: Asking yourself, “Does this role still align with my strengths, goals, and values?” If the answer is no, it might be time to shift.

Make Room for What’s Next

Letting go isn’t about loss—it’s about creating space for what’s next. The more you release what no longer serves you, the more aligned, confident, and free you’ll feel.