Letting Go of a Relationship

Letting go of a relationship is no easy task, given human nature which yearns for the familiar and sticks to comfort.

While many insist a relationship should be saved, sometimes the best course could be to let go of a relationship, but you should know when.

Any relationship, be it friendship, between parents and children or between lovers, is meant to bring out the best in people. However, if it brings out the worst instead, it's a sign that you got to let go of the relationship. If you're caught in this mesh, do seek help, counseling, talk it out with your partner etc. But instead of sorting out, if you're more enmeshed, the best way to disentangle is to let go.

Every relationship has a shelf-life. That doesn't mean you got to discard it. If only dust has settled in, clean the surface, renew it by exposing it to more sunlight (cheer), mirth (joy) and give it a new shade (meaning). It's only the jaded who're bored of themselves who let go of a relationship for a trivial reason like monotony.

Most often, relationships perish for want of warmth, understanding and love. Communication helps.

Do you feel used or did you allow yourself to be used? If your relationship is a one way traffic, with absolutely no inputs from your partner and if your innate being is revolting, time to let go of this relationship. 'Love and be loved' is what makes relationships dynamic. However, before you say good-byes, do communicate how you feel about being the giver. Perhaps, your partner has grown used to you as a provider and could change!

Although straying is a serious offence, some overlook this too. However, if your partner is a serial offender, it's time to let go of the relationship. Yes, seeking couple- therapy is fine, but let your esteem not be defined by your partner. If you've reached the end of the tether, wise to move on.

If you dread life because of a violent relationship, just forget your silly dreams of 'everything will be fine soon'. None has the right to violate you physically or mentally. Violence occurs because you've allowed yourself to be walked over. Don't relent even if the perpetrator apologizes or repents.

People stick together often because they've children to think about; for security; to put up an image before the world or because they dread loneliness. But, many are lonely even in steady relationships. If despite leaving no stone unturned, your relationship is dead, wise to let go of the relationship to discover a new 'you' and find a new meaning to your life.