Written by: Aquib Nawab
Credits: Canva
Friendship
Every time you share an achievement or story, they swoop in with something bigger or better. It’s as if they’re always trying to prove they’re ahead, leaving you feeling overshadowed and unheard.
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When you achieve something great, they act unimpressed or say things like, “That’s not a big deal.” Instead of celebrating your success, they minimize your accomplishments, making you question your worth.
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They start adopting your style, hobbies, or career paths without acknowledging the influence you’ve had on them. You start to notice that they’re mimicking your actions, but never give you credit for it.
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Their compliments always come with a backhanded twist, like, “You look great for once!” These low-key jabs are meant to undermine you, but framed in a way that makes them seem innocent or kind.
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They post strategically right after you share something significant, often highlighting something better in their life. Their posts seem like subtle attempts to outshine your moments of success.
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Whenever the conversation drifts toward your accomplishments, they quickly change the subject. Their discomfort is obvious, and they seem unwilling to give you the spotlight, even for a moment.
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When it’s your big day or a milestone event, they’re either absent or act disinterested. Despite you always being there for them, they seem unwilling to offer the same level of support or enthusiasm.
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They nitpick your flaws, pointing out your mistakes or shortcomings more often than offering encouragement. It feels like they’re trying to make themselves look better by bringing you down in subtle ways.
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When things don’t go well for you, they’re suspiciously silent, or worse, seem quietly pleased. Their sympathy feels forced, and you notice they’re more comfortable when you’re struggling than succeeding.
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They constantly measure their progress against yours, turning every milestone into an unspoken competition. Instead of mutual support, it feels like they’re keeping score in a game you didn’t agree to play.
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