.png)
Valentine’s Day is over—the chocolates have been eaten, the roses are wilting, and now it’s time for a different kind of relationship check-in. Enter National Dump Day—originally created for those calling it quits before February 14th, but it’s not just about romance. This unofficial holiday is the perfect excuse to break up with habits, commitments, and professional baggage that no longer serve you.
As a hospitality advisor and senior leadership coach, I often work with executives who are stretched too thin—stuck in time-sucking projects, overloaded with meetings, or clinging to commitments that no longer align with their personal or company growth. The best leaders don’t just know how to take on more—they know when to let go. Sometimes, that means delivering the perfect breakup speech to the things weighing them down.
So, if you need a little inspiration on how to say goodbye, here’s how to break up—professionally.
Let’s Make the Break Official
"I think we’ve outgrown each other." (To that never-ending project that keeps dragging on.)
If a project lacks ROI, clarity, or momentum, you need to reassess. Ask yourself: Does this still align with my goals? If not, cut the cord or redefine its purpose. Staying attached to projects that no longer serve your needs or your company’s need drains your time and focus. Energy and resources should be spent on high-impact work.
"It’s not you, it’s me… wanting work-life balance." (To those 6 AM meetings that could have been an email.)
Boundary-setting isn’t a luxury - it’s a leadership skill. Before committing to another early morning or late-night meeting, ask: Does this require real-time collaboration, or can this be handled in another format like email? Protecting your personal time lets you be more effective, engaged, and present when it truly matters.
"I just need some space." (To that overwhelming, back-to-back calendar.)
Your schedule should work for you, not against you. Build in white space for deep work, strategic thinking, and – yes – breathing and thinking. Nonstop running from meeting to meeting without time to reflect or strategize reduces productivity and creativity. Make space for what moves the needle. Or simply block time for YOU!
"We should see other people." (To that networking circle that no longer inspires you.)
Your network is your net worth and should elevate you. If your conversations feel fake or stale, it’s time to expand your posse and inner circle and find fresh perspectives. Surrounding yourself with people who challenge and inspire you ensures you keep growing and staying ahead in your industry.
"You’re holding me back." (To outdated processes that slow you down.)
If you're still clinging to labor-intensive or manual tasks that could be automated, it's time to upgrade. Efficiency is everything. Whether it’s tech, workflows, or those severely outdated policies, clinging to inefficiencies prevents growth. Modernizing how you work frees up time for more meaningful contributions.
"We’re not aligned anymore." (To business relationships that no longer fit.)
Not all partnerships are meant to last forever. If a vendor, consultant, or client relationship isn’t aligned, it’s okay to pivot. Reassess partnerships regularly to ensure they’re mutually beneficial and helping you move forward … not stuck.
"You drain me." (To toxic work environments, bad habits, or self-doubt.)
If something is costing you mental energy and not adding value, it’s time to let it go. A negative work environment or unproductive habits can be the biggest roadblocks to success. Choose to invest in environments and mindsets that support your growth.
Time to Move On
Breaking up is a skill. Whether with a project, a habit, or an outdated way of working, breaking up is a critical leadership skill. The most effective leaders aren’t just strategic about what they take on – they are intentional on what they dispose of. Knowing when to let go is what sets great leaders apart, letting them to focus on what truly drives impact and results.
The most effective leaders aren’t just strategic about what they take on – they are intentional on what they dispose of.
In honor of World Dump Day, take a moment to audit your professional life. Think about what it is that is weighing you down. What’s stopping you from being your most productive, strategic, and influential self? The only way to make space for new opportunities is to clear out what no longer serves you.
Melissa Maher is the CEO and Founder of Pinnacle Enterprises Group, where she partners with executives to enhance their influence, accelerate growth, and achieve measurable results. With over 20 years of leadership experience—including as CMO and SVP at Expedia Group—Melissa specializes in executive coaching, leadership development, and strategic advisory. Through her signature programs, she helps leaders refine their executive presence, command the room with confidence, and navigate pivotal career transitions.