Ever felt yourself losing the crowd? During a sales pitch, during a date, during a public speech.

You know that feeling. The audience isn’t laughing at your jokes. It feels like you’re pouring your energy into a black hole of emptiness.

The instinct is to double-down. Tell funnier jokes. Show more enthusiasm. Try harder.

Don’t do it.

You’ll just dig a deeper hole and make an even worse impression.

If you can, try end the session politely and save face.

If you can’t, just walk away. Literally. Standing on a stage? Stop talking, say thanks, and exit left.

In a sales meeting? Stop talking, say thanks, and exit left.

On a date? Stop talking, say thanks, and exit left.

Don’t make excuses. Stop digging.

Move on.