The season of letting go

I recently took a peaceful hiking trip through the hills of Southern Ohio. All the leaves were changing colors, the air had that crisp feeling. Fall has a way of reminding us that change can be beautiful. The leaves begin to turn gold and red before they fall to the ground. There’s something symbolic about that - nature showing us that letting go isn’t losing, it’s part of growing.

Many of us hang on to things longer than we should — old habits, the pressure to be perfect, or fears of what could happen. We do it because it feels familiar. But, like a tree that refuse to drop its leaves, holding on too long can keep us from growing.

Maybe you’re stuck in a routine that doesn’t fit your life anymore. Perhaps it’s an old way of thinking that keeps you from moving forward. It could be the constant push to go faster, do more, and never take a breath. (This one is mine.) Fall reminds us it’s okay to pause — to think about what we have, reset, and let go of what’s holding us back.

Letting go isn’t giving up. It’s making room for what’s next. When a tree releases its leaves, it’s not losing life — it’s preparing for a stronger season ahead. New growth is already starting.

And, letting go looks different for everyone. For one it’s the habit of hitting snooze instead of getting up early to move your body. For another it’s the negative self-talk that plays on repeat every time you look in the mirror. It could be it’s the extra commitments that keep you too busy to focus on your health, your family, or your purpose.

Ask yourself — what am I holding onto that isn’t pointing toward one of my goals? Sometimes it’s not the big things holding us back, but the small daily choices that no longer line up with where we want to go. Letting those go opens the door for real progress.

So, as the air becomes cooler and the days get shorter, take a moment to ask yourself: What am I ready to let go of? Maybe it’s a thought, a fear, or a habit. Maybe it’s just the need to have everything figured out.

This fall, follow nature’s lead - trust the process, and make room for something better to grow.

Chad Cannon is a health and fitness coach, success coach and the owner of the CannonFit Transformation Center. Chad can be reached at www.cannonfit.com