"Some people believe holding on and hanging in there are signs of great strength. However, there are times when it takes much more strength to know when to let go and then do it." -Ann Landers

In a world where the idea of a "perfect life" is pushed your way, it is hard to build up the courage to leave what you have come to consider normal. The idea of starting anew, tearing your entire life down to build it back up again, is scary because, as humans, we fear failure. We fear being rejected by those around us, and that fear keeps us in many situations we should be letting go of. The past has a funny way of making its mark in our minds. We all have those moments we wish we could relive, because we want what we find comfortable and what we have grown used to. But I believe that there is something important to be learned from the art of "letting go."

Accept what is and let go of what was.

"Some things are hard to let go of, I get that. But what is the point of holding onto something that has already let go of you?"

As we mature and grow wiser, we realize what we need to hold on to and what we need to leave behind. Walking away from certain situations and painful memories is a step forward. Sometimes there are things in our lives that were never meant to stay there. Sometimes the changes we don't want are the changes we need in order to grow as an individual. Personal growth and change can be uncomfortable sometimes, but nothing in life is as painful as staying stuck somewhere you do not belong.

Our future hopes and happiness should never be defined by our fears.

"You will never achieve what you are capable of if you're too attached to things you're supposed to let go of."

Change happens for a reason. It is never easy, but then again nothing worthwhile in life is easy. It is quite hard to let go and move on, but once we do, we feel free to create our own happiness without letting the fear of "What If" stop us from becoming the best versions of ourselves.

Don't be afraid to say no and take a stand for yourself.

"Grudges are a waste of perfect happiness. Laugh when you can, apologize when you should, and let go of what you can't change."

When it comes down to it, if it isn't making you a better person, than let it go. If it is hurting you, than let it go. If it is making you negative, let it go. Let it go, and wish everyone the best. Not everyone will look out for you, so don't be afraid to look out for yourself. Don't be afraid to let go of something simply because it may hurt someone else. Don't think you won't be able to find something else, there are infinite possibilities in this world, choose which one is best for you.