In a world that constantly tells us to push through, to never give up, it’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking that quitting is synonymous with failure. But what if the narrative we’ve been taught about “giving up” is wrong? What if walking away from something that no longer serves us isn’t a sign of weakness but an act of courage and wisdom? What if giving up, at the right time, is not just an option — but the best choice?

Steve Jobs’ story is another powerful example of how letting go can lead to greater success. In 1985, after a series of disagreements with Apple’s board of directors, Jobs was ousted from the company he co-founded. At the time, being removed from the company seemed like a devastating blow to his career. However, rather than letting this setback define him, Jobs took a different route.

Instead of clinging to Apple, he founded a new company called NeXT, focused on creating advanced computer workstations for higher education and business markets. Jobs also acquired a small animation company that would eventually become Pixar, which revolutionized the animation industry and was later sold to Disney for billions of dollars.

During this period, Jobs had time to reflect on his earlier work at Apple and to redefine his vision. When he was invited back to Apple in 1997, the company was struggling. However, armed with fresh ideas and a new perspective, Jobs transformed Apple into the global powerhouse it is today, introducing iconic products like the iPod, iPhone, and iPad.

Had Jobs stubbornly fought to stay at Apple or tried to recreate the past, his return might not have had the same impact. It was in the act of letting go — of stepping away from a company that was no longer aligned with his vision — that Jobs found the opportunity to reinvent himself and the tech industry. His story is a testament to how walking away from something can sometimes set the stage for an even greater return.

The idea that walking away is a form of courage rather than defeat is a shift in thinking we all might need. When you choose to give up on something that no longer aligns with who you are or who you want to become, you’re creating space for new opportunities, personal growth, and a more fulfilling life. It’s not about quitting, it’s about knowing when to turn the page and start a new chapter.