do you ALWAYS split 8s even when it feels like a bad idea

honestly this is one of those spots that gets way too dogmatic in basic strategy talk. yeah, you're supposed to split 8s no matter what, but i swear when the dealer is showing a face or an ace and your chip stack is not healthy, it feels like just lighting extra money on fire. couple weeks ago, doubled down after splitting and watched both hands brick, and it really stuck with me how little control it feels like you have in that moment.

i get the math is what it is over a million hands, but in the real world with a limited bankroll i see a lot of folks just eat it and try to fight back with a 16, especially if they're down. i don't see anybody talk about tailoring it to situation and table mood, it's always "split 8s, end of discussion." anyone else second guess the rule at crunch time, or is it always autopilot for you?