Why You Should Close the Door Behind You When You Leave
Take a first step into a new life.
I recently left a publication where I’ve been writing regularly for a number of years. I loved this publication for so many reasons—most of all, because it was the first place that ever accepted my work for publication.
While I’ve come and gone from this publication over the years, I feel like it’s time to leave for good. I don’t want even the temptation to return. It’s been an easy and comfortable relationship, but that’s not reason enough to stay; in fact, it’s more likely the reason to leave. Instead of continuing with what I know, it’s time to branch out into places I don’t know. Instead of staying comfortable, I need to get uncomfortable. Instead of easy, I need a challenge. To use phraseology that fits my brand—my snakeskin is getting a little tight around the middle and it’s time to shed.
I considered telling my editor that I was merely “taking a break.” There’s something that feels safe about leaving a door open just a crack. There’s a part of our psyche that likes that “just in case” option. But it takes a lot more boldness to actually close the door. To say, “I will not be back.” To create closure and a sense of permanence. Because if I didn’t close the door and hear it click behind me, I could easily fly back there like a homing…
