Sometimes, the bravest and wisest thing we can do for our wellbeing is to take what might appear to be a step backwards. We live in a world that constantly praises progress, momentum, and visible success. But real growth doesn’t always look like a straight line. In fact, some of the most important changes in life begin when we make the conscious decision to slow down, step aside, or let go of something that no longer serves us. It can feel strange or even wrong at first but moving backwards whether it’s stepping away from responsibilities, relationships, or a certain career path can be the first real move forward.

In our personal lives, there’s immense pressure to be everything to everyone. Many of us take on more than we should, believing that being constantly busy is a marker of success or fulfilment. But there comes a point when all that juggling starts to chip away at our peace. Saying no to certain social commitments, stepping back from toxic dynamics, or even taking more time for ourselves might feel selfish or lazy at first. We fear judgment, or we worry we’re falling behind somehow. But personal wellbeing is not a race. It’s a balance and sometimes finding that balance means redistributing your energy and attention.

Letting go is not giving up, it’s choosing you. Imagine the difference between holding onto something heavy just to prove you’re strong, versus setting it down so you can finally breathe. Sometimes we need to retreat to recover. Stepping back from the chaos of daily life, from roles we’ve outgrown, or from expectations that no longer fit us allows space for clarity, healing, and a fresh sense of direction. These aren’t signs of failure; they’re signs of inner strength.

The same idea applies in our careers. The idea of taking a step back at work can be daunting. Maybe it’s leaving a high-pressure role, switching industries entirely, or accepting a job that pays less or comes with a less impressive title. From the outside, it may look like a downgrade. But what if that step back is actually a pivot towards something more meaningful? What if that “lesser” role reignites your creativity, rebuilds your confidence, or opens doors you hadn’t even considered?

Changing careers or downshifting in your professional life can feel like a risk, especially when we’ve been taught to value upward movement above all else. But success is deeply personal. It’s not always about climbing higher, it can also be about aligning closer to your values, doing work that energises rather than drains you, and having space for life outside your job. Sometimes, to move forward in a way that really fits you, you need to stop and ask yourself what you actually want.

There’s also great power in intentionality. When you take a step back deliberately, you’re taking control of your story. You’re saying, “This is not where I want to be, and I trust myself to find a better path.” That’s not regression, that’s courage. That’s real growth, even if it doesn’t look like it at first. And often, after a period of stepping back, we emerge with more focus, deeper purpose, and a stronger foundation.

So if you’re in a season of life where you’re stepping away, downshifting, or changing direction entirely, know that you’re not failing, you’re evolving. The step backwards you’re taking might just be the space you need to leap forward in a way that’s more authentic, sustainable, and true to who you are. Life isn’t a ladder; it’s more like a winding path with dips and turns and pauses. And every part of that path, even the parts that feel like detours, contributes to your journey forward.

Give yourself permission to pause. To pivot. To choose peace over pressure. Because sometimes, the only way to really move forward, is to step back first.