You’re Allowed to Outgrow the People Who Taught You the Game
How to move forward with gratitude—without staying stuck in outdated dynamics
Kamy Charles
5/28/20251 min read
The Growth No One Talks About
Most of us start our careers with mentors, bosses, or colleagues who shape how we think, lead, and work.
They taught us:
How to speak up
How to navigate the system
How to “play the game”
And for a while—it worked. Until it didn’t.
Because as you grow, evolve, and redefine your own success, those same people might start to feel misaligned with where you’re going.
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Here’s What That Looks Like:
Feeling small in rooms you’ve outgrown
Being encouraged to “stay in your lane”
Getting resistance when you question old processes
Shrinking yourself to maintain loyalty or keep the peace
You start wondering:
Is it disloyal to want more?
Do I owe it to them to stay?
Will they see this as a betrayal?
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The Answer: No, You Don’t Owe Lifelong Loyalty to a Former Version of You
You can honor what they gave you without sacrificing where you’re going.
Gratitude and growth can coexist.
But when someone’s influence begins to limit your expansion—it’s okay to move on.
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How to Know It’s Time to Evolve Past Old Mentorships
Their advice feels outdated or limiting
You’re avoiding success to maintain the relationship
You’re constantly editing yourself in their presence
You feel guilty every time you succeed without them
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What Growth Sounds Like:
“I appreciate everything you’ve taught me—now I’m taking it in a new direction.”
“That worked for me before, but I need to try something different now.”
“Thank you for the foundation. I’m building my own framework now.”
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Final Thought: Outgrowing Isn’t Betrayal—It’s Evolution
The people who truly want the best for you will celebrate your growth—even when they don’t understand it.
And those who don’t? They were part of your story, but not the next chapter.
You’re allowed to rewrite the rules.
You’re allowed to lead differently.
You’re allowed to outgrow the people who taught you the game.
Ready to move forward with clarity and courage? Let’s build your next chapter—on your terms.