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Industry
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How "letting go" gave me a new lease on life

anne.graham's avatar
anne.graham
Icon for Advisely Board rankAdvisely Board
2 months ago

At a mature age (60), I made what seemed to be a courageous move that left many people in my circle scratching their heads.

I exited my successful financial advice business and moved to another successful financial services business. It’s a decision that sparked countless questions, including:

  • "Do you think you did the right thing?”
  • “But I thought you owned the business!”
  • “What prompted the move?”
  • And the big one: “Are you happy?”

The short (and long) answer is yes, I’m happy. 

At one point, however, I did consider retiring. I thought it might be the right time to step away completely because I just wasn’t happy. Something inside me, though, knew I wasn’t ready for that yet and the journey to this decision was anything but simple.

I’ve learned that life transitions, at whatever age, never come too late. And they often come with surprising lessons, too.

Why change?

For a long time, I was in a situation that, looking back, was unsustainable. Working in a challenging environment takes a toll on both physical and mental health. The tricky part? Sometimes you’re too close to the situation to recognise just how bad it is and that you have options.

I thought I could simply work my way out of the problem—power through, fix the issues, keep going. But as many of us learn the hard way, that approach rarely works.

It took a series of realisations to prompt my decision. First, I had to acknowledge that the situation was affecting my health and well-being. That was a tough pill to swallow because, like many business owners, I identified so closely with my role. My business wasn’t just a job; it was part of who I was.

Then came the understanding that I needed to be selfish and I mean that in the healthiest way possible. I needed to prioritise my own well-being. Clients and team members would carry on, even without me at the helm. It was a humbling but liberating realisation.

Lastly, it dawned on me that I had control and had options, and it was up to me to be brave enough to consider all options available and then make a decision.

The process of letting go

Once the decision to leave was made, it felt like the weight of the world lifted off my shoulders. The hard part was over, and I could finally breathe again.

Letting go of my business wasn’t a snap decision. It was a long and difficult process filled with moments of both doubt and clarity. I had to remind myself repeatedly that I had choices and control over my future. We all have choices, but making the right choice requires action.

And annoyingly, that action isn’t always linear. There were days when I felt empowered and ready to move on and other days when I questioned everything. What I’ve learned is that transitions are messy but that’s okay. The messiness is where the magic happens.

So what’s next?

Now I’m at a new business, which was the only one I even considered partnering with due to trust and a long-standing relationship, and I’ve found a renewed sense of purpose. The shift has allowed me to focus on what I love helping clients without the weight of running an entire business.

And yes, I’m happy. More than that, I’m healthier and more at peace.

So, are you ever too old to make a change? Absolutely not. Life doesn’t come with an expiration date for growth and reinvention. If you find yourself in a situation that’s no longer serving you, remember: you have choices and the power to make a change. 

To anyone contemplating a major transition, whether you’re 30, 60 or beyond, I offer this advice: trust the process, embrace the messiness and don’t be afraid to put yourself first. Change is never easy, but it’s often where we find our true strength and joy. 

Updated 2 months ago
Version 2.0
  • Gtys's avatar
    Gtys
    Social Sightseer

    Anne, your journey really resonates. Opportunity and fear often go hand in hand, but trusting yourself and taking that step can lead to something even better.  👍

  • A great read, AG! Glad to hear you're happy and healthy, continuing to do what clients love you for :)

  • Terry-Bell's avatar
    Terry-Bell
    Icon for Advisely Partner rankAdvisely Partner

    Congratulations Anne on so many fronts. I'll pick three - your courage to make this decision, your commitment to sharing the experience and your positivity and enthusiasm for the next steps in your journey. Lessons for all of us! 

  • ben.marshan's avatar
    ben.marshan
    Icon for Advisely Partner rankAdvisely Partner

    anne.graham this is a brilliant article Anne - thanks for writing and sharing! (And I will admit to being one of those people surprised by your decision at the time - but yeah - I totally get it). It's taken me a while to process the last 10 years from the other side of similar (although for different reasons) burnout - and I didn't have the foresight at the time to realise or do what I needed to. I'm glad it has been the right outcome for you and that you are in a better place! And well done for sharing the story - I think many people will hopefully read, reflect and that it will help them! 

    • anne.graham's avatar
      anne.graham
      Icon for Advisely Board rankAdvisely Board

      Thank you ben.marshan and I think we're proof there is a future when a different path is taken. It's not easy but nothing worthwhile ever is. I'm enjoying your work too!

  • Love this anne.graham your openess about your jouney is very inspirational to anyone thinking of changing their life or career, I am so glad you are in a happy place, I am also glad you didnt retire as you still have so much to contribute.  Looking forward to seeing you around soon