Dear Agile: It's Not You, It's Me

Dear Agile,

As the clock ticks closer to my birthday, reflection has become my unexpected guest. I can't help but think about all the adventures we've had over the last ten years. It's been an incredible journey. You've taken me to amazing places and introduced me to some of the best people I've ever met. Honestly, I wouldn't be who I am today without you, and I'm thankful for that.

When we first met, I was dodging some curveballs life had thrown my way. You were all about being creative, celebrating everyone's differences, and showing me that sometimes messing up is OK. That meant the world to me. You taught me that being my imperfect self was not only OK but actually kind of awesome. Thanks to you, I found my people — the kind of friends who get me and support me no matter what.

Being with you made me love what I do. But as we moved through time, trying to explain who we are to those around us has taken a toll on me. It feels as if we began our relationship in a world that understood and celebrated us, only to find ourselves in places where what we value is questioned or misunderstood. We went from being the cool kids to suddenly defending why we were still at the party. Constantly fighting to prove our worth has been more exhausting than all the two-week PI Planning I endured. It finally dawned on me that maybe, just maybe, what I want now is something you can no longer give me.

I have wondered what could have been in the past few months, but more importantly, I'm curious about what will be. The thought of not having you by my side is daunting. However, I think I have to walk this next part of the journey without you. Our relationship has profoundly changed how I see the world. Agile, I'll always be grateful for our time together. Like you always told me, to keep growing, we must embrace change, even when it's scary.

As I turn the page on this chapter of our lives, I want you to know that I'm still working on the thing that's deeply rooted in our shared values — it's always been about people, and that will never change. What's different now is the newfound freedom to chart my own course. I've teamed up with some fantastic folks to launch the Orion Group, focusing on leadership development for everyone. I'm really excited about this, and I hope you can be happy for me. Maybe we will meet again someday, at a different time, with new stories to share.

Thanks for everything, Agile. You'll always be part of my story. Here's to new beginnings for both of us.

Take care,
Xiao