In our life, we encounter many problems - some big and some small. We usually don’t hesitate to face those problems, whether it is your toughest college entrance exam, a job interview, or a financial crisis.
But when it comes to handling your friends, especially fake friends, many of us struggle the most. I don’t know how to put this, but fake friends are the most dangerous things around you.
They disguise themselves as your well-wishers, but deep down, their intentions are not as pure as you think. Their intentions are often harmful, selfish, and envious.
You have to be cautious and intelligent when dealing with them. Not every friend is fake, but some people who enter your life under the label of “friend” surely are.
I know we can’t distinguish between fake friends and real friends at the start because they behave like they are supportive, caring, and kind. But day by day, you start to see their real self.
They will ghost you and not talk to you for months, but when they need something from you or want to benefit from you, they will suddenly appear as your closest ally. Their friendship is not connected with loyalty and care but with convenience and selfish gains.
The emotional damage they can cause is deeper than we often think. Being continuously surrounded by someone who is pretending to be your friend, but who has other, more dear friends - and for whom you mean nothing-
more than a medium for benefit and selfishness - can severely affect your peace and mental health. At that time, you seriously need a genuine friend, or even better, to be alone for a while.
You will start noticing the fading of your self-respect and self-worth. They can often make you feel inferior or less confident, and with time, you will begin to question your own decisions, achievements, and even your identity.
This is the silent toxicity they bring to your life, and you start feeling mentally exhausted.
So how should you deal with fake friends? First, start observing and trust your instincts. If something feels off, don’t ignore it. Start paying attention to actions more than words.
A real friend shows up when you need them in tough times; fake friends disappear and make excuses. The second thing you can do is set boundaries for yourself. Don’t let anyone treat you like a backup option. You are worthy of utmost trust and value.
If someone is making you their backup plan while hiding the truth, then block them. They are more dangerous than your loneliness. It’s better to remain alone instead of having these types of fake friends.
In the end, your mental peace, emotional health, and personal growth matter the most. You deserve to be surrounded by people who genuinely care for you. NJN