Looking back on my personal growth journey, one song resonates with me more than anything else—Kelly Clarkson’s "Breakaway". Its lyrics mirror the struggles, emotions, and ultimate freedom that I’ve come to experience through my path of healing and self-discovery.
There were so many moments in my life where I found myself "trying hard to reach out, but when I tried to speak out, felt like no one could hear me." Whether it was in relationships with family, partners, or even in my career, I craved belonging and being heard. But no matter how hard I tried, something always felt off—"something felt so wrong here." That feeling of being stuck, of not being understood, weighed heavy on me, making me pray for the strength to break free—"so I prayed I could break away."
In previous posts, I’ve shared how I remained in a long-term relationship that grew more toxic each year. I stayed, thinking things would improve, convinced that suffering was just a part of life. But I was wrong. That relationship drained the life out of me. I stayed quiet when I should have spoken up, I tolerated mistreatment, and I pretended everything was okay. It took me a long time to understand that "it’s okay to leave, it’s okay to want better." I had to take a risk, step out of the darkness, and finally step "into the sun."
When I left that toxic relationship, the same clarity hit me about my career. For so long, I worked somewhere that didn’t value me. Despite my hard work, I was consistently overlooked. But I stayed, thinking maybe, just maybe, things would change. They didn’t. So, once again, I found myself at a crossroads—do I stay, or do I break away? The truth was, "maybe I don't know where they'll take me," but I knew I couldn’t stay in that environment anymore. It was time to "keep moving on, moving on."
One of the hardest lessons I’ve learned is that growth requires goodbyes—to relationships, to comfort zones, and sometimes to parts of ourselves that we thought we needed. I had to let go of people and situations that no longer served me, even if it was terrifying at the time. "I'll spread my wings and I'll learn to fly, though it is not easy to say goodbye." Walking away from certain family members and prioritizing my peace was tough, but my self-respect and well-being were more important than clinging to relationships that only brought pain.
Through all of this, I’ve come to realize that it's not my job to fix others or carry the weight of their behaviors. It’s okay to want more for myself, to dream bigger, and to demand better. Walking away from what no longer aligns with my soul doesn't make me selfish—it means I'm choosing to fly. "I gotta take a risk, take a chance, make a change, and breakaway."
The road ahead is often unclear, and yes, the unknown can be scary. But here’s what I’ve learned: "I won't forget the place I come from," but I won’t let it define me either. Every step forward is a move toward a future filled with possibilities. "Out of the darkness and into the sun," I’m building a life I truly deserve.
So, if you’re feeling stuck—whether in a relationship, job, or situation where you aren’t valued—remember that you have the power to change your situation. Sometimes we must leave our comfort zones and step out of those revolving doors to find our true path. "Growth isn’t always easy, but it’s worth it."
5 Key Takeaways from My Journey
Recognize When It’s Time to Move On – Pay attention to how people and situations make you feel. If it doesn’t align with your peace or values, step away.
You Have the Power to Make a Change – Don’t let fear hold you back from building the life you deserve.
Set Boundaries – Protect your peace by not allowing others to take advantage of your kindness.
Prioritize Your Mental Health – Walking away from toxic relationships or environments is an act of self-love.
Keep Moving Forward – The unknown may be intimidating, but growth comes when we take risks. Don’t stop moving toward your future.
Remember, "gotta keep moving on, moving on, fly away, breakaway."
So, what are you ready to break away from?
See you on the next post!
Yours Truly,
Serina
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