Letting go with compassion

When leadership means making the hardest call of all

There’s a moment that many leaders dread — not the boardroom debate, a business review, the tough market, or the strategic pivot. It’s the moment when you realise someone on your team isn’t working out.

Not because they’re a bad person. Not because they haven’t tried. But because they can’t meet what the role truly requires.

It’s a moment heavy with doubt:

• “Could I have done more?”

• “Am I being too patient?”

• “What if I’m wrong?”

I recently coached a senior leader navigating this exact challenge. Despite patience, support, and feedback, one of her team members simply couldn’t meet the expectations of the role. The emotional weight was real: “Have I failed them?” “Am I being fair?”

But through reflection, structure, and courage, she did something powerful: She held space for that person to decide for themselves — and they chose to leave, respectfully and positively.

Letting go doesn’t mean you’ve failed. It means you’ve led — with compassion and conviction.

💡 Try asking yourself:

• What does this role really require — today and in the future?

• Have I offered clarity and support?

• What might be lost if I avoid the truth?

When handled with care, endings can be just as honourable as new beginnings.