What does “Don’t burn your bridges” mean?
“Don’t burn your bridges” is an idiom advising against permanently damaging relationships or cutting off all communication with others, especially in a manner that destroys future opportunities. It suggests that maintaining good relations, even when moving on from a situation, is beneficial because you never know when you might need to rely on those connections again. The phrase underscores the importance of not leaving a situation in anger or bitterness that could lead to regret or loss of valuable support or opportunities in the future.
Where did “Don’t burn your bridges” originate?
The idiom “Don’t burn your bridges” likely has military origins, where the literal act of burning bridges after crossing them would prevent an army from retreating or using that path again in the future. It serves as a strategic metaphor in civilian life, emphasizing the folly of cutting off retreat or return paths in personal and professional relationships. Over time, it has evolved to represent the broader concept of not severing ties or closing off opportunities in a way that might be regretted later.
How to use this phrase
- Career Advice: “Even if you’re unhappy in your current job and planning to quit, don’t burn your bridges with your employer. You might need a reference from them later.”
- Personal Relationships: “I know you’re upset with your friend, but try to resolve the issue calmly. Don’t burn your bridges over a single argument.”
- Professional Networking: “He decided not to leave his company on bad terms, understanding the value of not burning bridges in the industry.”
- Life Decisions: “Before you send that angry email, consider the future. You don’t want to burn your bridges with people you might need support from later.”
Other interesting references to the phrase
- Business and Management: In discussions about career transitions, the advice not to “burn your bridges” is common, emphasizing the small nature of many industries where reputations matter.
- Conflict Resolution: This idiom is frequently mentioned in the context of resolving conflicts, advising against actions that would irreparably harm relationships.
- Psychology: Psychologists might use the phrase when discussing the importance of maintaining healthy interpersonal connections and the psychological impact of social isolation.
- Cultural Studies: The concept of not burning bridges reflects broader cultural values around community, relationship building, and the interconnectedness of social and professional networks.
