When Does Holding On Become Letting Go?

Letting go is, in fact, a powerful act.

Many years ago, I had a young and somewhat melodramatic love affair. At that time, we felt destined for each other. We talked on the phone until the early hours, encouraged each other, and envisioned a bright future.

But reality has a knack for delivering harsh lessons. We began a long-distance relationship, and as time passed, his replies to my messages became slower, and phone calls turned into a routine. Worse, a "third party" suddenly appeared, transforming our story from an idol drama into a prime-time soap opera.

I was unwilling to give up then, thinking: "I've invested so much; wouldn't things change if I tried harder?" The result? No one won, and we all left the situation wounded. It was then that I realized letting go is actually harder than holding on, especially when you're still fixated on those "what ifs."

Why is it so hard to let go?

The real reason it's difficult to let go isn't solely about the depth of your love for the other person; it's about the sunk cost.

When you invest significant time, energy, and even self-esteem in a relationship, you unconsciously think: "I've come this far; wouldn't it be a waste to give up now?" This mindset pulls you deeper, and even knowing there's no positive outcome, you're reluctant to break free.

But the truth is, past efforts are irretrievable, and continuing to persist will only exhaust you further. True courage isn't about clinging on; it's about knowing when to let go and preserving your dignity and space.

“Sometimes, letting go isn’t giving up, but allowing yourself a fresh start.”

Letting go is true strength.

Later, I understood that letting go isn't giving up, but the most rational choice. It means not dwelling on what can't be undone, but giving yourself a new beginning.

And it's not just in relationships; letting go is a significant challenge in work, friendships, and even family.

At work, sometimes you must admit that a certain position or project no longer suits you, and walking away is taking responsibility for your career.

In friendships, when a relationship no longer brings a positive impact, release those draining connections to make room for truly compatible friends.

In family relationships, learning to let go might mean respecting another’s choices and accepting the distance that comes with growth.

Each time you let go, you fulfill yourself. Only when you're willing to release what no longer fits can new opportunities and possibilities emerge. Letting go isn't about discarding the past, but giving yourself the courage to move towards greater freedom and growth.

Sometimes, letting go is the gentlest way to fulfill yourself.

It’s hard to let go because you’re “unwilling to give up” - emotional investment and sunk costs make you feel that “it can’t end like this.” Entanglement will only amplify the harm - persisting in an unsuitable relationship will only make both parties more miserable in the end.

True courage lies in letting go - facing reality is the greatest responsibility to yourself.

Only by letting go can you move forward - give yourself a chance to start over, so that you may encounter a better future.

Letting go doesn’t just apply to relationships — you also need to learn to let go in work, friendship, and family in order to truly grow.

Thank you for reading!