By Tylia Flores

Last week, I had to let go of a person that I loved very much.

Even though it hurt to lose them, I realized that it was better for both of us to go our separate ways, especially because our lives are different.

In my opinion, it’s completely OK to let go of people and things that don’t fit into our lives anymore.

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Whether it’s because you just went through a difficult obstacle in life or you need to take time to focus on yourself, sometimes, you need a brand-new start.

I had to realize that letting go of certain negative people in my life would do me good, especially considering that I had been struggling with my health.

I needed to let these people leave me so that I could practice self-care during this challenging time.

At first, my new realization devastated me, but I realized that the time had come to end my five-year relationship and accept that it is OK to slowly forget the memories we shared together.

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I went into my bedroom and did a clean sweep of my ex-boyfriend’s things, as well as all the pictures of the fun times we had shared.

I wanted to throw out any memory of him.

Although my ex had gotten me through some difficult years, and it hurt to toss away our memories, I told myself that forgetting him could help me grow in the future.

I knew that in time, I would overcome my sadness and move on from my ex-boyfriend.

Now that I’ve let go of my ex’s presence in my life, I’m much happier.

I’ve pressed the restart button and begun to focus more on myself, especially the person I could be without caring too much about other people’s problems.

I finally believe that it’s OK to let go of people who only bring you stress and negativity.

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Sometimes, even people who love each other deeply grow apart from one another over time.

In the beginning, it’s hard to adjust this separation because you are used to having that person there to talk to every day.

Soon, though, you’ll realize that wanting to move on doesn’t make you a bad person.

Leaving people behind is really just you taking control of your life by letting go of anyone who doesn’t help you succeed.

It’s a natural, necessary part of life.

So, don’t be afraid to let go of the past and move forward without the people who have hurt you.

It’ll make you a much happier, healthier person in the long run.

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Tylia Flores is a writer who focuses on relationships, entertainment news, and love topics. Visit her author profile on Unwritten for more.

This article was originally published at Unwritten. Reprinted with permission from the author.