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Molly Simpson's avatar

Here’s to lifelong learning and making fools of ourselves while doing it! You’re right, there’s vulnerability and risk in taking on new projects/goals/hobbies that perhaps makes most of us feel more comfortable “playing not to lose” i.e. not starting in the first place. “Playing to win”, on the other hand, inevitably comes with some losses (and quitting) along the way, but will pay out big in the end. I’m excited to read whatever it is that quitting the podcast now creates space for you in the future!

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Michael Caprio's avatar

This is a relevant article timing wise for me, I have struggled over the past year with picking up projects/ideas and "quitting" them, or putting them down for sometime with the idea of coming back later only to not do it or do it after an uncomfortable amount of time has passed. Like you, there are so many interests I have that burn out quickly and I usually try to explore all of them so I can see if it works or sticks. Sometimes I feel like this need to try all things interferes with doing one thing consistently and well. I'm trying to get to a place where I'm more consistent on one or two things I really desire and enjoy while also being forgiving of myself for the missteps along the way.

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Melissa Mowry's avatar

I could not love this post more. I am a lifelong quitter of many things: jobs, relationships, hobbies..the list goes on. I used to feel embarrassed by that, but I've come to realize that knowing when to quit something that's no longer working is a superpower that not everyone possesses. I refuse to let myself stay stuck and sometimes quitting is simply the healthiest and most rational option.

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Tiffany's avatar

Thank you for writing this. I have also labeled myself a quitter in the past. I have quit more jobs than I have kept. I have quit playing musical instruments. I've quit hobbies. But you're right. In each one, I got closer and closer to the truth of who I am and what I want. I have learned from each experience, and that is worth it.

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Erin Nystrom's avatar

Thanks, Tiffany! Glad it resonated

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Celesté Polley's avatar

Quitting… it’s been a journey for me too. I love reading about other people’s relationship with quitting. Thank you for sharing yours. I think imposter syndrome and fear of being known are the main reasons I quit things but toxic people/environments have been good reasons too. Walking away from something means I’m no longer aligned with that part of my life and I’d rather move forward than stay stuck in a rut.

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Tori Allenspach's avatar

Your honesty and authenticity is refreshing 🤍 Thank you for this beautiful piece

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LC Frias's avatar

For years, I told everyone I was proud of finishing whatever I started and of never quitting. After all, that's how I was told I should be... and after many years at work and some kids in the house, I realised sometimes we HAVE to quit, or, as you say, WE LEARN BETTER. I am proud to be a role model for my kids: they will not achieve whatever they want if they don't work, but they should not chain themselves to things/ people/ situations that potentially will make them unhappy either...

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