The Delicate Art of Quitting: Knowing When to Hold On and When to Let Go
We have all heard the pep talks on never quitting, and millions of hours of motivational footage preaching the don’t quit gospel. Subconsciously, we have deemed perseverance as virtuous and change of course in the name of quitting, as a fundamental flaw. This week, a bosom friend, who is no stranger to this blog, interrogates the labyrinth that comes with it all. Be edified.
By Peter Okwalinga Jr
In the multifaceted needlecraft of life, the concept of quitting is one that elicits mixed emotions, often prompting us to question our convictions and endurance. Whether it’s a dissatisfying job, a challenging relationship, or personal aspirations that seem elusive, the decision to quit or persevere is not a one-size-fits-all dilemma. Let’s explore the delicate balance between holding on and letting go, acknowledging that sometimes quitting is not a sign of weakness but a courageous act of self-discovery.
A recent conversation with an associate, disheartened by the management practices within our organization, sparked my contemplation on the subject. His lamentation about waning work morale begged the question: “If you can’t fix the problem, why not quit?” His response, “It’s bearable, so I won’t quit,” encapsulates the intricate dance between dissatisfaction and endurance that many of us navigate in our professional and personal lives.
The problem with quitting often lies in our perception of it. We may advise others to consider quitting when faced with challenges, yet when the same principle is applied to our own situations, the taste of quitting becomes less palatable. This paradox underscores the complexity of the decision-making process, where the right choice is not always clear-cut.
In the pursuit of goals and aspirations, resilience and determination are paramount. To achieve success, one must often toil through challenging circumstances, finding the courage to press on even when faced with adversity. This principle is mirrored in the world of athletics, where athletes in disciplines such as martial arts, bodybuilding, or running are taught that real gains occur at the point of pain and exhaustion. In essence, when the desire to quit surfaces, that’s precisely when one should dig deeper and find newfound strength to continue.
However, life is not a uniform playing field, and certain scenarios demand a more nuanced approach to quitting. Life-threatening events, such as abusive relationships, drug addiction, and societal debaucheries, present situations where quitting is not merely an option but a necessity. In these instances, it becomes crucial to recognize that quitting is an act of self-preservation, a choice made for one’s well-being and safety.
These situations are often referred to as sins by some, particularly within religious contexts. The thrills, sensations, and insatiable pleasures associated with such behaviors can indeed make quitting seem daunting, sometimes to the point where individuals risk their own lives. It is important to approach these complex issues with empathy and understanding, acknowledging that the decision to quit is not always straightforward when faced with deep-rooted personal struggles.
The art of quitting is a delicate dance between endurance and self-discovery. It requires introspection, a thorough understanding of the circumstances, and the courage to make choices that align with our well-being. Quitting is not inherently negative; rather, it is a tool that, when used judiciously, can pave the way for personal growth, resilience, and a more fulfilling life. It’s time we dispel the stigma surrounding quitting and recognize that, in certain situations, it is an act of strength rather than weakness. The key lies in discernment, knowing when to hold on and when to gracefully let go.
Inspired by life events, when I chose to quit imbibing the bitter is when freebies showed up in reckless abandon, with the organization I subscribe to organizing a fete filled with utmost binging. But I chose otherwise. Sometimes in attempting to give up negative habits, the evil whispers show up about the unprecedented thrills, but well, I quit. It has nothing to do with my religion, Christianity is not a religion of tea, Mohamedism is.
The writer is a communications professional and a turkey farmer
