Letting Go and Looking Ahead: A Personal Transformation

Life often presents us with opportunities for change—some we choose, others are thrust upon us. Over the past few years, I’ve navigated a period of profound transformation, both personally and professionally. These experiences have taught me the importance of letting go, embracing growth, and redefining what truly matters.

Letting go hasn’t been easy, nor has it happened all at once. It's been a process of release and renewal. I let go of a 20-year marriage—along with the dreams and identity I had built around it. I moved house twice, shedding not just physical belongings but emotional ties as well. My child became an independent adult who flew the nest and is building her life with her partner, a bittersweet milestone that brought pride and reflection in equal measure.

A couple of years ago, I also said goodbye to my beloved Labrador of 14 years. Losing such a loyal companion brought a quiet sense of loss, but their memory continues to fill my heart with warmth and gratitude.

Starting over meant decluttering, not just my physical space but also my sense of self. I left my previous life with very few possessions and continued to pare down even more when recently combining two households into one. For years, I held onto objects because they reminded me of cherished past times. But I’ve come to understand that the memory isn’t within the item—it’s within me. Saying goodbye to those things has felt liberating, a chance to carry forward what truly matters: the experiences and emotions I hold in my heart.

I said goodbye to my cherished personal number plate of 12 years—an emblem of the person I once thought I was. I discarded old nail varnishes, makeup, and clothes that felt like remnants of someone I no longer wanted to be. Even undergoing a hysterectomy brought about a profound acceptance of change.

Through each step of this transformation, I’ve come to terms with the impermanence of life. Letting go is more than an act; it's a mindset, an opportunity to rebuild, reconnect, and redefine. I’ve formed deeper, more meaningful friendships, and learned to value presence over possessions.

This chapter has also brought new beginnings, including finding love—a partner who shares similar beliefs and hopes, and with whom I’m building a future together. Our relationship is rooted in respect, compassion, and shared dreams, grounding me while inspiring forward motion.

Today, I take another step forward by choosing a new surname. For the first time, my name is a choice—a symbolic letting go of the previous surnames I carried, none of which I chose for myself. This name represents hope, newness, and excited anticipation for the future.

These reflections aren’t just personal; they shape my professional philosophy as well. As an executive coach, I help leaders navigate change in their own lives and organisations—unlocking potential while maintaining wellbeing. If my story resonates with you and you’re seeking support to achieve high performance without sacrificing balance, let’s connect. I’d love to explore how we can work together to create meaningful change.