Imagine you're an octopus trying to juggle too many things at once, only to end up tangled in your own tentacles. That’s how overwhelming life feels sometimes, especially for Gen Z, who are navigating the chaos of modern adulthood, responsibility, and existential dread in a world that’s always in fast-forward. 'Leave It' is a skill—the power to recognize when something or someone no longer serves your well-being and to let go gracefully, whether it's a toxic relationship, a soul-sucking job, or the need to appease a certain public persona.
We often hear 'leave it' whispered in the self-help corners of the internet and self-care twitter threads. The saying isn’t new, but the nuance of its application varies across experiences. To some, 'leave it' feels like abandonment or failure. To others, it signifies bravery and progress. It's a balancing act that's hard but essential in a culture that glorifies hustle and the 'never quit' mentality. Understanding 'leave it' isn’t about giving up; it's about streamlining life and focusing on what genuinely matters.
In the workplace, for example, professionals have grappled with this concept for years. Quitting a job isn't always viewed as a positive move. Yet, workplace studies repeatedly show that job satisfaction directly influences mental health and personal growth. The decision to 'leave it' can mean stepping away from a toxic work environment to explore more fulfilling opportunities that align with your values.
On a social level, societal expectations impose the 'stick to it' mindset deeply ingrained in many cultures. The pressure to maintain friendships because of history or commitment can lead to toxic dynamics. 'Leave it' can be preventative care for your mental health, severing ties with people who drain your energy instead of enriching it.
Politically, 'leave it' becomes relevant when we discuss ideologies and beliefs. Politics is intensely personal, and holding onto certain ideologies just because we've always believed them is not necessarily productive or progressive. As society evolves, so should our perspectives. 'Leaving it' can mean letting go of outdated beliefs and embracing a more inclusive worldview. It’s about realigning with the progressive values that often resonate with the Gen Z experience.
However, letting go is tough. Fear of the unknown and the comfort of familiarity often hold us back. What if leaving results in regret or worse circumstances? These fears are valid, and acknowledging them is the first step to overcoming them. By weighing pros and cons and considering future goals, we can better evaluate which battles are worth fighting.
Opponents of 'leave it' argue that resilience is built by sticking it out through adversity. They fear the implications of a culture that promotes quitting too easily. They worry that it might foster impulsivity or erode commitments, which are valid concerns. However, it’s less about the act of leaving and more about the context and intention behind it. Persistence has its virtues, but wisdom lies in knowing when to persist and when to pivot.
For Gen Z, who have grown up amid social, economic, and political turbulence, the skill of knowing what to hold onto and what to release is crucial. Whether it's student debt, climatic anxiety, or social justice, 'leave it' in these contexts can be about abandoning old methods and mindsets that no longer serve a future-focused approach.
That being said, 'leave it' is personal. It's an expression of autonomy and self-respect. It's the understanding that life is too short for what-if scenarios or energy-draining commitments. For some, it might look like unfollowing certain social media accounts that evoke insecurity and self-doubt. For others, it might be departing from a major that just doesn't fit, exploring passions that drive purpose rather than a paycheck.
In essence, 'leave it' is liberating—the ultimate form of self-care. It grants permission to embrace new opportunities with renewed energy and clarity. Sometimes, the real victory is in mindfully choosing not to carry something forward. So find your rhythm, trust your instincts, and remember: it's okay to let go when you know you've held on long enough.