There’s a hard truth I’ve come to accept since my separation: words don’t matter. Long paragraphs don’t matter. Giving someone your all doesn’t matter. Changing yourself to meet someone else’s needs doesn’t matter.

When a relationship or situationship is over, it’s over.

Yet, so many of us hold on, gripping tightly to something or someone; who has already let go. It’s like climbing onto a raging bull, knowing full well that the ride won’t last. You hold on for dear life, ignoring the danger, convincing yourself that if you just hold tighter, you can tame it. But the reality? The longer you stay on, the more you risk getting hurt.

I’ve decided that I will never again be on a bull ride with a man. Never again will I fight to hold on when I know I’m meant to let go.

It may sound like a strange metaphor, but picture it: a person clinging to a bull, tossed around, gripping harder despite the pain, despite knowing the inevitable fall is coming. The truth is, it’s not strength that keeps them holding on—it’s delusion. A belief that if they just endure a little longer, things will change. But the only real way to save yourself is to let go before the damage becomes permanent.

The same goes for relationships. If you find yourself in a situation where you are constantly giving, pouring, sacrificing—yet the other person continues to take advantage of your kindness—stop. Don’t explain. Don’t ask why. Don’t keep hoping for change.

Just leave. Quietly.

Silence Is Power

One of the 48 Laws of Power states that saying less is often the most strategic move. Sometimes, the most powerful statement you can make is through silence. It allows space for reflection and gives both parties the opportunity to truly understand the weight of actions and words without the distraction of an ongoing debate.

Looking back, I realize that I should have just walked away—without a flurry of explanations or justifications. Walking away isn’t about proving a point; it’s about protecting your peace. It’s about reclaiming your energy and choosing not to be entangled in a cycle that doesn’t serve you. Silence, in this context, isn’t about submitting or conceding—it’s about choosing yourself over the chaos that often comes with unresolved conflicts.

Your energy is precious, and choosing to protect it by leaving quietly can often lead to the most profound personal growth and healing. Silence is a catalyst for change, both within ourselves and in the dynamics we choose to leave behind.

The Real Reason We Hold On Too Long

Through deep self-reflection, I’ve come to realize that the biggest reason I didn’t leave sooner was simple: I had invested more in him than he ever invested in me. This reality resonates with many of us who find ourselves in relationships where love is not mutual. We don’t let go because we don’t want to feel like we’ve wasted years pouring into someone who never truly reciprocated.

But here’s what I want you to understand: letting him/her go is a return on your investment.

By walking away, you reclaim all the time, energy, and love you poured into someone who may not have fully appreciated it. You clear space in your life for new opportunities, healthier relationships, and personal growth. You free yourself to receive the love, effort, and respect that you deserve.

Your worth is not defined by how much you give to others—it’s defined by how much you cherish and honor yourself.

As you move forward, embrace the lessons learned and the strength gained from these experiences. Trust that the future holds something better, something more aligned with who you are and what you truly need. Because when you finally stop gripping that bull and let go, you don’t just fall—you fly.