This year has been one of immense transformation. As I reflect, I’m reminded that stepping forward often means leaving certain things—or people—behind. Even though I’ve experienced loss before, it never gets easier. It’s still painful every single time. This year has brought its share of that pain, and I’ve felt it deeply.
There’s something about change that feels like losing a part of yourself. It’s scary, disorienting, and often leaves a sense of emptiness. This year, I had to leave behind people close to my heart, including one person with whom I shared three decades of history. They were a special part of my life, filled with memories and moments that shaped who I am.
Three decades. That’s a lifetime of memories and deep connection. Saying goodbye felt like losing a piece of myself. As hard as it is to accept, people come and go from our lives for different reasons. Each person has a purpose in our journey, and when that purpose is fulfilled, they leave. But knowing that doesn’t make the pain any easier to bear.
Yet, amid the loss, this year has also blessed me with incredible friendships. I’ve experienced the kind of friendship that acts like a mirror, reflecting back exactly what I need to see during the hardest times. This is the friend who challenges you to dig deep, to question yourself, and to grow. It’s the friend who stands by you when you need them most, offering advice, support, and a safe space to be yourself.
Even though loss is painful, friendships like these remind me that life is also about connection, growth, and support. It’s these relationships that give us strength, especially when we feel vulnerable or uncertain.
So, how do we deal with both letting go and embracing new growth?
Here are a few things I’ve learned that may help you navigate these difficult yet transformative moments:
1. Acknowledge the Pain—Every Time
No matter how many times you’ve experienced loss, it’s still hard. Don’t suppress the sadness, grief, or discomfort. Allow yourself to feel them fully. Only by processing the pain can we begin to heal and move forward.
2. Reflect on Both Loss and Friendship
While it’s natural to grieve the loss of relationships, don’t overlook the friendships that enrich your life. Remember those friends who challenge you, who help you look inward and grow. These connections are just as important as the ones you’ve lost.
3. Understand That Change Is Part of the Journey
Sometimes, stepping into your future means leaving parts of the past behind. This doesn’t lessen the value of what you’ve had—it simply means new opportunities for growth and connection are ahead.
4. Lean on Your Friendships
During times of change, true friends become your greatest allies. Surround yourself with those who reflect your potential, who push you to grow, and who are there when you need them most. These friendships are your anchors.
5. Give Yourself Time and Grace
Healing doesn’t happen overnight. Give yourself permission to take time to grieve, heal, and grow. Loss and growth are both gradual processes, and it’s okay to take them one step at a time.
6. Accept the Challenge to Grow
The friends who challenge you are the ones who help you evolve. Embrace their advice and reflections, even when it’s hard. This is how we transform into our best selves.
7. Remember, You’re Not Alone
It’s easy to feel isolated during times of change, but you’re not alone. Rely on your friends, family, and community to support you through the tough moments. While some people may leave, others will enter your life with the exact wisdom and love you need.
This year has been full of both painful goodbyes and incredible new connections. Even though I’ve dealt with loss before, it never gets easier, but it does bring new opportunities for growth. The most vibrant and fulfilling versions of ourselves often emerge after we’ve experienced both loss and the support of true friendship.
So, what’s holding you back? Maybe it’s time to face it, feel it, release it, and grow from it. The future is waiting—and it’s filled with people ready to help you on your journey.