The Strength of Staying: How Emotionally Intelligent People Build, Not Break, Conversations

Prateek Khanna
Jun 22
3 min read

I guess in this hyper-connected world (or over-hyper at times , ha ha ha ha), it's easy to join a group chat or a discussion—and just as easy to leave it.

Some people, at the slightest disagreement or difference of opinion, storm out of conversations, exit WhatsApp groups, or cut off ties, often thinking they are above the chaos or too “pure” for the crowd. They may wear their anger like armour and their silence like a crown.

But here's a thought worth sitting with: leaving is easy; staying with grace is where true strength lies.

1. Anger Is a Messenger, Not a Master

Anger in itself is not wrong. It’s a powerful emotion that signals when something feels unjust or out of place. But when anger controls our responses—when it becomes the default exit door from every uncomfortable moment—it stops serving us and starts hurting others.

The emotionally mature person asks: What is this anger trying to teach me? Not: Who do I need to punish with my silence or exit?

2. Your Ego Is Not Your Identity

Many who leave groups or conversations abruptly are unconsciously letting their ego speak for them.

The ego wants to feel important, correct, and superior. But the more we feed that ego, the more isolated we become.

Humility doesn't mean thinking less of yourself. It means thinking of others too. Everyone has something to teach us—even those we may disagree with. And often, staying in a conversation teaches us more about ourselves than it does about the topic.

3. Leaving Without Closure Isn’t Strength, It’s Avoidance

If someone in your circle offended you, or if you feel misunderstood, take the time to express yourself calmly. Exiting without a word might make you feel temporarily powerful, but it leaves behind confusion, hurt, and unresolved energy.

Wouldn't it be more courageous to communicate, rather than cut off?

4. Superiority Is a Wall, Not a Bridge

Believing you’re better than others—more intelligent, more spiritual, more righteous—is a trap. It isolates you and blinds you to the beauty of diverse perspectives. True leaders, mentors, and wise individuals stay, listen, guide, and learn.

You don't inspire change by leaving the room. You inspire change by showing up with calm, compassion, and clarity—especially when things get uncomfortable.

5. The Mirror Test: Would You Respect You?

Before leaving that group or snapping at someone, ask yourself:

Am I reacting or responding?
Am I leaving because it helps, or because it feels easier?
Would I admire my own behaviour if someone else did the same?

Sometimes, the person we need to have the hardest conversation with is ourselves.

Final Thought:

If you are someone who gets angry quickly, walks out of conversations, or feels too superior to engage—you are not a bad person. You're a human being with emotions, needs, and probably some past wounds. But emotional growth begins when you choose to pause, reflect, and stay—when you choose connection over control, and curiosity over conflict.

The next time your finger hovers over the Exit Group button, consider this: staying isn’t weakness—it’s wisdom.

Disclaimer:

This blog reflects my personal thoughts and reflections on emotional maturity and is not necessarily inspired by any specific event, including any recent occurrences in the NCR WhatsApp group. Please take it in the right spirit and with a pinch of salt. I have deep respect for all my seniors, juniors, and fellow DMETians, and everything I write comes from a place of love for the DMET community that has shaped me.