How Letting Go of a Team Member Taught Me More About Leadership

Have you ever had to make a decision so tough it kept you awake at night? Today, I want to share the gut-wrenching reality behind leadership—the hard choices, the emotional goodbyes, and a lesson in human resilience that I’ll never forget.

The Decision No Leader Wants to Make

Let’s face it: in business, there will be moments where you have to make impossible decisions—not for you, but for the greater good of your team, your company, and your mission. Recently, I found myself in just this position. We had to let go of three talented team members, and as much as I wish I could tell you it gets easier with experience, it simply doesn’t.

These weren’t fleeting relationships—they were dedicated individuals who have poured years of energy and growth into the business. The reasons didn’t stem from failures or shortcomings; it was simply about the future direction, resources, and the changing landscape of our operations.

The Message That Changed Everything

Here’s where it gets real. One of those team members, despite the circumstances, sent me a message that nearly brought me to tears. Gratitude. Positivity. No anger—just honest thanks for the opportunity, the growth, and the memories. Even though their journey with us had ended, their message was full of grace and maturity, qualities that left a mark far deeper than any job description could.

I’d worked less closely with this individual (they were in one of our overseas teams), but the cultural warmth and professionalism in their message reminded me that human connection transcends borders and job titles.

Lessons in Leadership (and Humanity)

This experience hit me hard. It forced me to ask myself: Had I truly done enough to support, develop, and nurture this person? The reality is, leadership isn’t always about the next strategic objective. Sometimes, it’s about how you say goodbye—and how you leave the door open.

The key lessons I learnt:

• Never burn bridges. You genuinely never know when paths might cross again.

• Leading with empathy changes everything. The way this individual conducted themselves will forever shape my approach to tough conversations.

• Decisions aren’t always personal, but responses always are. As leaders, our legacy isn’t just built on victories, but on how we handle the darkest times.

Beyond the Finish Line—Why I Run Every Day

You might wonder, Why am I putting myself through an ultra-marathon challenge, running barefoot across half the world for over 4,292 consecutive days? The answer is simple: for the children’s futures we’re changing, for the lives we’re saving, and for the hope we’re sparking (all while chasing that £1,000,000 fundraising milestone).

Like running, leadership is about showing up every day, even when it hurts—especially when it hurts.

Join Me—Let’s Raise £1,000,000 for Children Who Need Us Most

Letting go is never easy. But if today’s storey inspired you, moved you, or made you think twice about your own leadership journey, please share this post.

Every view, every share, every donation brings us a step closer to our fundraising targets and—most importantly—makes a difference in a child’s life. Stay positive, stay happy, and let’s keep running this ultra-marathon together!

Questions or thoughts? Drop me a comment below—I reply to every relevant question. Let’s chat and grow together!

Remember, every day is another step towards our goal of £1,000,000 for children’s causes. Support the mission, follow the journey, and be part of something bigger than all of us.

See you tomorrow, Runpreneurs!