By Ifra Bilal – Co-founder of 28COE, Founder of Go Daughters and currently a Clinical Intern
Why Letting Go Matters
We all carry memories, experiences, and emotions from the past—some joyful, others painful. While happy moments can fuel us, unresolved pain often weighs us down. Holding onto anger, regrets, or heartbreak may feel like self-protection, but in reality, it prevents growth, healing, and new opportunities. The art of letting go is not about forgetting or pretending things never happened—it is about reclaiming your power, finding peace, and creating space for the life you deserve.
The Psychological Burden of Holding On
When you cling to the past, your mind and body stay in survival mode. Stress hormones spike, sleep suffers, and emotional balance is disrupted. Research shows that unresolved grief or trauma can manifest as anxiety, depression, or even physical health issues like high blood pressure. In Malaysia and worldwide, mental health specialists emphasize that emotional baggage can become as heavy as physical illness if left unchecked.
Why People Struggle to Let Go
Letting go is easier said than done. People often resist because:
- Fear of the unknown – The past feels familiar, while the future feels uncertain.
- Identity attachment – Painful experiences sometimes become part of how we define ourselves.
- Unfinished stories – When closure is missing, people replay scenarios endlessly.
Understanding these barriers is the first step toward freedom.
Practical Ways to Let Go of the Past
- Accept What Cannot Be Changed
Acceptance is not weakness—it is strength. Acknowledging reality allows you to redirect energy toward healing instead of resistance.
- Reframe Your Story
Shift from “Why did this happen to me?” to “What did this teach me?” Pain often carries hidden lessons that fuel growth.
- Practice Forgiveness—For Yourself and Others
Forgiveness is not about condoning bad behavior; it is about releasing yourself from the prison of resentment.
- Create New Rituals
Journaling, meditation, or cultural practices such as doa (prayer) in Malaysia can bring closure and a sense of renewal.
- Seek Professional Help if Needed
Therapists, support groups, or even online mental health platforms can provide tools and safe spaces for processing emotions.
The Benefits of Letting Go
When you let go, you make room for:
- Emotional clarity – less overthinking, more peace.
- Stronger relationships – free from old comparisons and baggage.
- Better health – reduced stress, better immunity, improved sleep.
- New opportunities – space for personal growth, love, and career success.
Letting Go Is an Ongoing Practice
The art of letting go is not a one-time act; it’s a lifelong practice. Some days will feel lighter, others heavier. But every step you take toward release brings you closer to freedom, peace, and happiness. The past may shape you, but it doesn’t have to define your future.