It’s funny how life brings you back to yourself when you least expect it. As I sit here listening to The Let Them Theory by Mel Robbins, I can’t help but realize how much I’ve unconsciously embraced parts of this mindset over the years. The idea of “letting them” was something I’ve often clung to, but not in the way I fully understand now.

Looking back, my version of “let them” was more reactive. If someone doubted me, I’d let them—but with a quiet determination to prove them wrong. If someone chose to misunderstand me or leave me out, I’d let them—but it came with an undercurrent of spite, as if I needed their absence or disbelief to fuel my growth. It worked to an extent, but it wasn’t sustainable.

Now, hearing Mel Robbins put this theory into words, I’ve come to see it differently. It’s not about letting them in order to prove something to them—or worse, to yourself. It’s about letting go of the need to hold onto their actions, opinions, or behavior at all. It’s about freeing yourself from their energy so you can turn inward, focus on your growth, and stay true to your path.

When I reflect on where I am now, I can see how I’ve shifted over time. “Let them” has evolved into a quieter, softer mantra:

• They want to misunderstand me? Let them. I don’t need to exhaust myself explaining my heart to someone who’s already made up their mind.
• They want to leave? Let them. The right people, the ones meant to walk alongside me, won’t need convincing to stay.
• They want to doubt me? Let them. My worth isn’t tied to their validation; it’s rooted in my own belief in myself.

But the real shift has been learning to let go of the weight of “letting them.” Instead of carrying bitterness or anger as I let people, situations, or doubts fall away, I’m learning to release it all with grace. It’s not about “showing them” what I can do; it’s about showing myself that I can continue, thrive, and grow, regardless of what others choose.

This realization has been a full-circle moment for me. It’s allowed me to let go not just of others but of the burdens I placed on myself to prove, explain, or justify. I’ve reclaimed that energy to pour into my own journey, and it’s been freeing in a way I couldn’t have anticipated.

So, this Throwback Thursday, I’m celebrating this shift. I’m celebrating the progress I’ve made in not just “letting them,” but also letting go of them. It’s a reminder that true growth happens when we stop looking outward for answers or validation and turn inward to our own strength and purpose.

And if you’re feeling stuck or burdened by the opinions or actions of others, maybe it’s time to try it too. Let them—and let yourself find peace in the process.