5. They Compete With You in Everything
If you mention your new gardening project, they tell you about the award they won for landscaping. If you’re proud of your grandchild’s college admission, they interrupt with their own family brag.
It’s not about sharing — it’s about outshining.
This kind of constant comparison reveals insecurity. They see you not as a companion, but as a rival. In the long run, it becomes exhausting.
6. They Seem Unbothered When You Struggle
You have a tough day. A health scare. A disappointment.
And they’re… fine.
Worse, they seem comfortable — almost pleased — with your misfortune.
They might say, “I figured that would happen,” or offer an oddly calm silence when you expected compassion. Watch for that slight smile or shrug when you’re hurting. It’s a red flag that they’re not rooting for you at all.
7. They Subtly Undermine Your Choices
You decide to travel solo. Take an art class. Volunteer. Make a big change.
They say things like:
“That seems risky.”
“I don’t think that’s really for you.”
“Are you sure you can handle that?”
It’s always phrased like concern — but deep down, it’s discouragement.
They want you to doubt yourself. Not because they care, but because your courage threatens their comfort zone.
8. Their Body Language Betrays Them
Even when they don’t speak ill, their body does.
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