The Art of Holding on and Letting go on Relationships

The Art of Holding on and Letting go on Relationships

The Art of Holding on and Letting go on Relationships

  • Nikki J Owen

  • 3 minute read

The Art of Holding On and Letting Go in Relationships

Our most profound connections often arise from the time we invest in people and experiences. Whether in relationships, careers, friendships, or the places we call home, these elements weave intricate emotional threads that bind us. The immersive and emotional ties formed, particularly in intimate relationships, make the prospect of moving on or letting go seem increasingly formidable. Deciding between holding on and moving forward becomes a complex challenge.

Embarking on a new relationship is a journey filled with hope and dreams of a shared future. As you delve deeper, you courageously dismantle your emotional walls, embracing vulnerability. This genuine openness lays the foundation for a deep connection. Relationships, much like life itself, ebb, and flow—marked by intense joy, moments of reflection, and periods of steadfast companionship.

Intimacy flourishes as you surrender, bringing past issues to the surface. Yet, familiarity can erode this intimacy. In times of smooth sailing, life feels vibrant and full of promise. However, challenges can shatter this illusion, prompting us to question and adjust our expectations.

If the relationship holds value, we learn to adapt, compromise, adjust, and change to reconnect with that initial intensity. If the connection no longer resonates, the struggle, disappointment, and minor conflicts become less tolerable. Theoretically, with a connection to our emotions and trust in our intuition, the decision should be straightforward. "Do I persevere, or is it time to step away?” The internal tug-of-war between hoping for change and fearing the unknown often keeps us anchored. This internal debate can be both distracting and overwhelming.

Three Influential Factors in Relationship Decisions:

  • Ego – The Voice of Individuality and Control

Our ego reflects our individual self, seeking affirmation and a sense of uniqueness. In relationships, the ego interprets our partner's actions through its own lens, desiring acknowledgment, value, and understanding. The ego's need for control can lead to skewed perspectives, fostering a 'me versus you' dynamic instead of building mutual understanding.

  • Emotions – The Inner Compass of Alignment

Emotions serve as internal barometers, signalling alignment or divergence from our true path and values. Positive and negative feelings indicate harmony or discord with our inner selves. However, emotions are intertwined with mental interpretations, leading to varying responses to the same actions based on individual perceptions.

  • Perceptions – The Mirror of Self-Reflection

Our thoughts carry energy, influencing our inner and outer worlds. Perceptions of our partner often mirror our own beliefs and values. Recognising and addressing these reflections can lead to personal growth and improved relationships.

Making decisions, especially in relationships, requires introspection. Consider questions to gain clarity on feelings, challenge beliefs, and understand the dynamics influencing choices. Every relationship, whether in friendships, careers, or romance, challenges and compels us to introspect and evolve. The energy and heart invested in navigating these challenges catalyse personal growth, transforming you into an enhanced version of yourself. Whether continuing the journey or parting ways, remember that every relationship is a lesson about your inner world—a mirror reflecting unseen aspects of yourself.