Some Bridges Need Burning

We are often told, especially in professional spaces, to never burn bridges. Guilty of it myself, without knowing all the details. It’s framed as wisdom. As strategy. As maturity. We always hear healthcare is a small space and you never know when you'll run into people again. But what does burning bridges really mean?

That advice assumes leaders are ethical and institutions are healthy. That assumption is often wrong.

Some define it as going out in a blaze of glory, telling the person/ leader/ or institution everything you've wanted to but held back in fear of being fired or being seen as unprofessional. I don't agree with this method, because it allows the institution to justify their toxic behavior by highlighting your colorful exit! But, I see burning a bridge a bit different. I see it as the institution or person having a clear understanding the value you provided and more importantly they no longer have access to you!

In toxic systems, bridges are not neutral. They are control points. They exist to preserve access to your labor, creativity, expertise, credibility, and your compliance. They assume you don't have choices. You’re warned not to burn them because doing so threatens their power, not because it harms your future.

Some individuals and some institutions lose that privilege through their behavior. Through misuse of power. Through disrespect. Through repeated failure to lead with integrity. When that happens, maintaining proximity is not professionalism. It is self-abandonment and self-harm.

Naming harm is not bridge burning. Refusing to tolerate it is not disloyalty. Walking away is not weakness.

Careers can be rebuilt. Networks can be recreated. Titles can be replaced. Integrity cannot.

Some bridges aren’t meant to be repaired. They aren’t meant to be crossed again.

They are meant to be burned as a reminder of your worth and never to never allow others to confuse access to me with my obligation obligation to you.

So, the next time you find yourself being harmed by a professional relationship with an institution tone-deaf to your needs, burn that bridge, stand their with pride, and roast up your marshmallow, so they know what they had was privileged access to you!

Sample resignation:

Dear [Name],

Please accept this letter as formal notice of my resignation from my position at [institution Name], effective [date].

This decision follows careful consideration and reflects my assessment that the current leadership environment and working conditions are not aligned with my professional standards, values, or expectations for a healthy workplace. As such, this decision is final.

During my remaining time, I will fulfill my responsibilities as outlined and ensure an appropriate transition of assigned duties. Please do not contact me regarding an exit interview, and I will not be available for continued involvement, consultation, or follow-up related to this role or its functions beyond my final date.

Please direct any transition-related needs to [designated contact].

[Your Name], [Credentials]