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How to spot a frenemy among friends

People aren’t always what they seem, and the friend you trust might stab you in the back. So how do you identify a frenemy among friends? This article will tell you

1. They talk behind your back

This is one of the surest ways to know that he or she is your frenemy. They may be nice to you, laugh, smile and sympathize with your problems. But as soon as they leave your presence, they are already announcing your matter to whoever cares to listen.

2. They don’t seem happy about your achievement

They may seem happy for you, even celebrate you for your wins, but sooner than later, they will show you that your achievement is like a thorn in their flesh. They won’t be able to hide the jealousy in them. Watch out for weird and negative comments and attitudes from them.

3. They are very competitive

Competition can be healthy in friendships. It is natural but when your friend is always trying to compete with you to make you feel bad, then that’s a frenemy right there.

4. They ooze negative energy around you

Nothing you do is ever good enough for them. They don’t have anything positive to say to you or about you. Always pointing out your bad sides, rather than the good sides. They mock you for your shortcomings, forgetting you’re human and not perfect. Such friends are bitter and want you to feel bad about yourself because that is what they feel about themselves too.

5. They adopt a passive-aggressive attitude toward you

Your frenemy may not come outright to bully you but they sure will do whatever it takes to bring you down. They will talk down on you in public, make fun of you where it hurts deeply, and crack jokes at your expense.

6. They try to take advantage of you

Do you have a friend who feels entitled to your stuff but give nothing in return? That’s your frenemy. They are ready to clean you out and they will be the first to dump you when you’re empty. Be careful around such so-called friends.

7. They lie a lot

Oh, they can lie for the world. No truth ever comes from their mouths unless it is important to them. Even at that, you can’t tell if they’re being sincere or they’re their usual lying selves. You can’t trust them because they are constantly lying. That’s not a good sign for your friendship. They are your frenemies.

8, They care about only themselves

They don’t care about you. Rather they are selfish about their time with you. For instance, if you made plans to go to a movie by 5 pm, they can show up at 9 pm and not care about wasting your time. It could also be that you guys are supposed to play games that you both enjoy but they will rather play what only they enjoy. Such people are not your friends. They are your frenemies.