Letting Go to Move Forward: Reflections from VEST Members on Growth and Change

Halfway through the year, most of us pause to ask: What have I accomplished? But just as important, and maybe even more so, is the question we don’t always make space for: What am I ready to let go of?

Letting go isn’t about giving up. It’s about checking in. It’s about noticing the mindsets, habits, or expectations that no longer serve who we are or who we’re becoming. And for many women, “letting go” isn’t about minimalism or productivity hacks. It’s about unlearning the roles we’ve been conditioned to play: the peacekeeper, the background presence, the one who over-performs and under-celebrates.

We asked VEST Members to reflect on what they’re letting go of this year—and their responses are honest, bold, and deeply resonant. These aren’t just personal shifts. They’re professional ones too. Because shedding what doesn’t serve you is often the first step toward what does.

What VEST Members are letting go of:

"I’m letting go of explaining myself. No is a complete sentence. I’m also letting go of saying 'sorry' as a placeholder to protect others, or to soften a no." – Kendra Loper, Director of Client Services, Veritus Group

"I’m letting go of being humble about my wins! They deserve to be celebrated and I’m only hurting myself by not sharing what my team is capable of!" – Yobana Ruiz, Founder and CEO, July Studios

"I'm letting go of not wanting to take up space. I'm showing up confidently in ALL the spaces. I've often been of the mindset to remain in the background. No more."

– Chantelle Lott, Founder and CEO, Bounceless

"I’m letting go of questioning my intuition! Over and over again it’s proven to be important to trust it."

– Srijita Ghosh, Venture Advisor and Business Development Director, i2e

"I’m letting go of seconding guessing my initial feelings and thoughts. But my intuition has always spoken clearly. This year, I’m learning to listen without editing, and to stand gently but firmly in what I know to be true."

– Jae Johnson, Community Engangement, VEST

"I’m letting go of seeking external validation. I’m focusing within and getting super clear on my values, how I want to show up, who I want to surround myself with and staying accountable to myself ."

– Erika Lucas, Founder and CEO, VEST

Letting go doesn’t always look dramatic. Sometimes it’s quiet. Sometimes it’s invisible to others. But it’s always powerful. So as you move through the second half of the year, ask yourself: What are you still carrying that you no longer need? And what might become possible if you finally set it down?

About the Author

Gaby Eichenlaub is the Program Director at StitchCrew and Co-Founder & COO of VEST, where she leads initiatives that advance equity in entrepreneurship and workplaces. She has successfully designed and executed programs for historically underserved small business owners and women professionals that have been nationally recognized by MIT Solve and the White House, and featured in Fortune and Fast Company for their innovative and inclusive approach. Gaby is an active member of the National Association of Latino Asset Builders (NALCAB), where she advocates for Latino-owned businesses and shares best practices across the sector. Prior to StitchCrew and VEST, Gaby held leadership roles in the fitness and wellness industry and began her career as a bilingual educator.