Stop sprinting after someone who’s walking at their own pace away from you.

Chasing tends to confirm the thing you are trying to disprove. When someone is moving away at their own pace, more effort from you does not slow them down, it simply shifts the whole relationship onto your shoulders. It also spends dignity you will want back later. Effort works where it is met, and only there.

Stop for two weeks and let the silence be honest. Notice whether anything closes the distance without your help. Whatever you learn, the time will have gone into your own life instead of into pursuit.