The problem with doing nothing is you never know when you are finished. —Groucho Marx
Deliberately choosing to do nothing is about reassessing. When you stop reaching out or responding to negative interactions, you are keeping your self-respect and your power. You can take a break from family. You learn to stop hoping for connection, predictability, respect. You go on with your life. You stop trying to get water from an empty well. At some point, the family may realize you have distanced and begin reaching out to you – especially if your role in the family is essential for them to maintain the status quo. If it is genuine and a sincere effort, take advantage of the opportunity to make repairs. Be cautious, it might be only a token effort. Like a slot machine, intermittent reinforcement can keep you hooked.