We’ve all been in the challenging situation of having to decide whether or not to keep a relationship in our life. Whether it be with a significant other, a best friend, or even a family member. The truth is, some relationships aren’t meant to last forever. Some are toxic for our minds and our hearts, and as much as it hurts to let them go, it’s something you shouldn’t be afraid to do. Because in the end, taking care of yourself is what is truly important. Growing up I’ve realized that I am unable to maintain every relationship I ever make throughout life. At first this was hard for me to accept, because I am the type of person who strives to keep everyone around me happy. I feel for others’ feelings, I cry when others cry, and I find happiness in others' joy. But I had to learn that not being able to keep every single relationship in my life wasn’t something I should put entirely on my own shoulders. After reading this article, I’m hoping you can learn this lesson too.

I first experienced this lesson in high school. While it’s a time filled with fun memories and crazy adventures, it’s no doubt that people change during the four short years you will spend together. It’s a time where people grow up and discover who they truly want to be in life. The people you used to eat lunch with every day in the cafeteria will inevitable make new friends by the time senior year comes around. Even your best friend will no doubt have other friends by then. And it’s hard to accept the fact that you’re not the only one in their life anymore. You bonded on the first day of freshman year, when you both were introduced to a new place, not knowing anyone, and you spent those seemingly long years leading up to graduation being each other’s “person.” So it’s of course hard not to be angry with yourself when that relationship is no longer there. And it took me a really long time accept the fact that people change, something I couldn't control, which is why it’s truly impossible to keep every relationship in your life.

You will then go away to college and the same thing will happen. I’ve lost some friends I thought I’d have forever. But it’s no secret that staying in touch when you’re separated by several states is a difficult task. People find new interests, they become busier with each passing month, and they foster new relationships with other people. But so do you. And while it’s hard not to feel guilty that maybe you didn’t send enough, “How have you been?” texts to your high school friends, communication is a two way street and you shouldn’t put so much pressure on yourself. You’ll learn that those relationships that were meant to last will. There will be some people who will stay in your life, through both the good and the bad times. Maybe your relationship with them will slowly weaken over the years, or maybe it will remain as strong as ever. I’ve experienced both. I’ve kept in touch with the people who truly matter, the ones who have had my back from the beginning, and will continue to support me during tough times.

If you take away anything from this article, it should be that it’s okay if you have to say goodbye to some people throughout your life. And trust me, you will have to. Whether you are prepared to do so or not, the truth is that people change and you will too. Some relationships can't last forever, and that's okay. You will have endless of opportunities to create new relationships, so don’t be afraid to do what you know in your heart is right for you.