Buzz
Everyone has moments where they say or do things they later regret. But what about those who consistently display negative attitudes and only think about themselves? These so-called 'fake' individuals can drain your mental and emotional energy. Don’t worry. We’ve gathered tips and advice here to help you identify fake people in your life so you can spend more time with genuine friends.
Steps
They Open Their Mouth Only to Criticize Others
These individuals don’t hesitate to criticize others and rarely offer genuine praise. Fake people tend to manipulate and use any means to elevate themselves by putting others down. They belittle those around them to boost their self-esteem and reduce their fear of being threatened by others.
- For example, a fake person might compliment a colleague with a sarcastic undertone rather than offering sincere kindness.
- They might make passive-aggressive comments about a coworker’s performance or criticize a friend’s fashion choices.
They are rude and often hurt others
Fake people often make harsh comments without thinking. Friends occasionally tease each other, but it’s usually harmless and just for fun. Reflect on your interactions with this person – do they make you feel supported and encouraged, or do they treat you as if you’re worthless? If you consistently feel negative around them, they might be fake.
- A fake friend might say things like, “You’re not good enough to make the school team” or “Don’t even dream of getting into that school.” Their cruel words often stem from jealousy.
- Fake people rarely give compliments. They only look for ways to bring others down.
They don’t truly listen
It feels like your stories go in one ear and out the other. When someone is genuinely preoccupied, they might not fully engage in a conversation. This is normal – What’s not normal is when they never pay attention to what you say. If you have a friend, colleague, or acquaintance who is always distracted during conversations, they might be fake.
- For example, a fake person might seem bored or distracted when you share your future plans.
- If you tell a fake person you’re attending a wedding this weekend, they won’t even bother asking about it.
They constantly try to please others
Fake individuals crave attention and approval. Because of this trait, they will go to great lengths to earn applause or nods of agreement from others. In everyday conversations, fake people might readily shift their opinions and viewpoints instead of staying true to their beliefs.
- For instance, during a political discussion in a group, a fake person might alter their stance to align with the majority.
They always stick to cliques
Fake people enjoy the sense of control that comes from being surrounded by others. Even as part of a “group,” they might stir up arguments to elevate their social standing. Seen as the “leader,” they often pressure others to follow their lead and dismiss opposing opinions.
- For example, a fake person constantly seeks to be the center of attention during conversations.
They spread rumors
Fake individuals believe they’ll gain more popularity by putting others down. Pay attention to their daily behavior. Do they offer support and encouragement, or do they constantly gossip about others? If they excel at spreading false rumors, they’re likely fake.
- A fake person might spread lies about the least popular person in school or fabricate stories to manipulate their friends.
They are fickle and indifferent
A fake friend won’t stand by you through thick and thin. When you face tough times, these individuals will abandon you instead of offering support like a true friend would. A genuine friend stays by your side during both happy and sad moments, not just when it’s convenient for them.
- For example, if you’re upset after a fight with your partner, a fake friend won’t comfort or advise you.
- A fake friend might act kind to your face but speak poorly of you as soon as you turn your back.
They lack consistency
People who aren’t genuine struggle to focus on one thing. Instead of committing to a project, fake individuals often jump from one idea to another without putting in real effort. As their schedule becomes increasingly scattered, they frequently fail to keep important commitments. When questioned about their inconsistency, they make excuses or shift blame to others.
- Fake people might join multiple clubs or extracurricular activities but never focus on any of them.
- They might take on too many projects at work and often miss deadlines.
- A fake friend might agree to hang out with you but cancel plans at the last minute.
They aren’t sincere when apologizing
An insincere apology won’t calm you down; it often makes you even more frustrated. Fake people might downplay their actions or blame others instead of taking responsibility. They might even imply they’ve already apologized or try to avoid the consequences of their behavior.
- For example, they might say, “I was just trying to help” or “I’m sorry, but I think you’re overreacting.”
- They might offer sarcastic or mocking remarks instead of a genuine apology.
They can’t handle criticism
Fake people often get upset over constructive feedback. Think about times when your friend, colleague, or acquaintance received feedback. Did they listen calmly, or did they explode? In many cases, fake individuals can’t stand being told they’ve done something wrong.
- For example, if a colleague makes a mistake on a project, they might deny any wrongdoing.
- If you critique a friend’s work, they might say things like, “You don’t know what you’re talking about.”
They fear failure
Genuine people can accept the risk of failure. They use their failures as stepping stones for future success; a fake person often gives up when things don’t go well. Unfortunately, fake individuals refuse to acknowledge mistakes and are so afraid of failure that they never try anything new.
- A fake person might sign up for low-level classes instead of challenging courses.
- While genuine individuals seek career advancement opportunities, fake people might settle for their current position.
