Ah, the classic pep-talk quote we’ve all seen slapped across inspirational posters, usually featuring a dolphin leaping majestically out of the ocean or a sunset so warm it practically hugs you. It’s easy to roll your eyes at these sorts of sentiments when life feels like it’s repeatedly smacking you upside the head. But hold your horses (or your dolphins, if that’s your vibe) because there’s a nugget of gold in this cliché—and we’re about to mine it.
Let’s get real: giving up often feels like the more appealing option, doesn’t it?
- Quitting your job because your boss seems to think micromanaging is an Olympic sport.
- Dropping out of that fitness class because, let’s face it, burpees are a crime against humanity.
- Or ghosting your goals altogether because staying in bed with a cuppa and some biscuits (cookies my Canadian & US counterparts) feels infinitely better.
We’ve all been there. But, before you send your ambitions packing, let’s take a moment to dissect this whole “why you held on” business.
Rewind to Your Why
First things first, why did you even start? Whether it’s a relationship, a career path, or that ill-advised attempt to train for a half-marathon, something made you say, “Yes, I’ll do it.” Maybe it was the promise of love, a sense of purpose, or sheer curiosity. Whatever it was, that initial spark mattered. And trust me, it’s still there. It’s just buried under a mountain of doubts, setbacks, and perhaps a dash of laziness — no judgment (trust me, I have those days too).
Take a trip down memory lane. Remember when you first fell in love with the idea? If it was a relationship, maybe it was the way they made you laugh until your cheeks hurt. If it was a job, it could have been the thrill of finally doing work that aligned with your passion. And if it was that half-marathon (bless you), perhaps it was the dream of crossing the finish line and earning the right to eat an entire pizza guilt-free. Your “why” isn’t just some whimsical notion; it’s the foundation you built everything on.
Don’t knock it now.
The Honeymoon Phase Is Over—Now What?
Here’s the kicker: that initial high isn’t going to last forever. Relationships settle into routine. Jobs become… well, jobs. And training for a half-marathon starts to feel like torture rather than triumph. This is where most of us hit the wall and think, “Why am I even bothering?”
Well, here’s a spicy truth for you: just because something gets hard doesn’t mean it’s not worth it. You don’t throw out your favourite jumper because it’s got a snag, do you? No, you fix it (or, if you’re like me, you attempt to fix it, fail miserably, and then take it to someone more skilled -usually wait till Mum visited in Canada but now I live with her in London – YAY). Point is, challenges don’t automatically negate worthiness. They’re just life’s way of making sure you really, really want what you’re after.
But What About the Red Flags? 
Now, I’m not saying you should stick with something just for the sake of it. Let’s not confuse perseverance with masochism. If your “why” has morphed into a big, glaring “why the hell am I doing this?”—it’s time for a gut check.
Red flags are those niggling feelings you can’t ignore: the partner who consistently disrespects you, the job that drains your soul, the marathon training that’s left you with a knee that sounds like bubble wrap every time you move. Sometimes, letting go isn’t quitting; it’s self-preservation. But if it’s just a bad day (or week, or month), that’s no reason to throw in the towel.
The Power of Perspective
Let’s play a game of “zoom out.” Imagine yourself ten years from now, looking back at this moment. Will you be glad you gave up, or will you wish you’d pushed through? Spoiler alert: future-you probably wants to give current-you a motivational slap on the back of the head.
Perspective is everything. What feels overwhelming now might be the very thing that shapes you into a stronger, wiser version of yourself. Growth rarely happens in the comfort zone. It happens when you’re knee-deep in the muck, questioning all your life choices, and still deciding to move forward anyway.
Celebrate the Small Wins
If the big picture feels too daunting, focus on the small victories. You know, the ones that make you feel like a rockstar, even if only for a moment. Maybe you nailed that presentation at work, survived a tough conversation, or managed to jog or run for five whole minutes without collapsing. These little triumphs add up, and they’re proof that you’re capable of more than you think.
So, pop some metaphorical champagne and celebrate the fact that you’re still in the game. Because let’s be real: sometimes just getting out of bed and facing the day is a win in itself.
Call in Reinforcements
Newsflash: you don’t have to do it all alone. Whether it’s a trusted friend, a mentor, or that annoyingly positive mate who’s always up for a pep talk (my bestie says, no positive stuff, please, I don’t need it today - lol), lean on your support system. They’ll remind you of your strengths when you can’t see them yourself.
And if your support system happens to include a dog named Samosa who thinks you’re the bee’s knees no matter what? Even better. Pets are basically furry life coaches, and I will die on this hill.
The Alternative? Meh.
Here’s the thing about giving up: it often feels great in the moment but absolutely crappy in the long run. Sure, quitting that gym membership might feel like sweet relief now, but future-you might not be so thrilled when you’re gasping for air after one flight of stairs.
Quitting might take the immediate pressure off, but it also robs you of the satisfaction of seeing what you’re truly capable of. And you, my friend, are capable of a lot more than you give yourself credit for.
Conclusion
So, the next time you feel like throwing in the towel, take a deep breath, grab a biscuit (or three), and ask yourself: why did I hold on for so long in the first place? Odds are, your reason is still valid. It’s just waiting for you to rediscover it.
Life’s a rollercoaster, never ever is it a straight path. There will be highs, lows, and moments where you’re pretty sure you’re going to throw up. But when you finally coast into that metaphorical station, you’ll look back and realise it was all worth it.
YOU’VE GOT THIS!
