Business By Hormozi #153: Gratitude Doesn’t Mean Servitude

Letting Go Without Guilt

Emma sat at a coffee shop, stirring her latte absentmindedly. Across from her, her childhood friend Lisa was mid-rant, complaining about the same things she had for years—her job, her family, and how "nothing ever works out."

Emma listened, but inside, she felt different this time. Years ago, she would have jumped in, offering advice, support, or even money. But now? She just felt... distant.

She still cared about Lisa. She was grateful for their childhood memories. But something had changed.

Gratitude and Distance Can Coexist

Many people believe that if someone was a part of their past, they should be in their future. That if someone helped them once, they owe them forever.

But here’s the truth: Gratitude doesn’t mean servitude.

You can appreciate where you came from and still choose a different path. You can be thankful for old friendships without carrying their weight forever.

Growth Requires Separation

Successful people understand that growth often requires letting go:

• Entrepreneurs outgrow their old circles.

• High achievers leave behind limiting beliefs (and sometimes the people who reinforce them).

• The person you were five years ago isn’t the person you are today—and that’s a good thing.

Emma realized that Lisa wasn’t interested in change. And that was okay. But she couldn’t let old loyalty stop her from moving forward.

Final Thought

You don’t have to take everyone with you.

Being grateful for your past doesn’t mean being chained to it. Keep the lessons, keep the memories, but don’t let them hold you back.

Because gratitude doesn’t mean servitude.