You get along great with someone. They’re always smiling, always friendly, and always seem to be on your side.
But then you get a weird feeling—it feels weird.
You see, people aren’t always who they seem. Some can be very nice to your face, but turn sour the moment you turn your back.
It’s a tough pill to swallow, but it’s a situation we’ve all been in at one time or another.
So how do you know if someone is cheating on you? How can you spot the signs?
Well, I’m here to help. I’ve put together a list of behaviors that might indicate that someone is nice to your face but mean behind your back.
Let’s get started and see if we can decipher the code.
1) They’re Overdoing the Compliments
We all enjoy a compliment now and then, right?
However, overdoing the compliments may not always be as innocent as they seem.
If someone is constantly showering you with compliments, it could be a tactic to keep you on your toes. It’s a classic gambit – make yourself feel good in the moment, so you’re less likely to suspect any ill intent.
Pay close attention to the nature of the compliments, too. Are they genuine and specific or vague and general?
Genuine compliments are usually about your skills or accomplishments, while insincere compliments tend to focus on superficial aspects.
So, take a step back and ask yourself – are these compliments genuine or just a smokescreen? Only you can answer that question.
2) They avoid eye contact
Now, this is a tricky one.
Eye contact can be a strong indicator of sincerity. When someone can’t look you in the eye, it’s often a sign that they’re hiding something.
I remember an old colleague of mine. Let’s call her Jane.
Jane was always fun and friendly, and always the first to crack a joke or laugh. But whenever we had a serious conversation, she would avoid eye contact with me. I found it strange, but I ignored it at first.
It wasn’t until much later that I learned that Jane had been spreading rumors about me behind my back. Looking back, her inability to maintain eye contact during our conversations was a clear sign that something was wrong.
So, beware of those who struggle to meet your gaze. It could be a red flag.
3) They’re always in a rush
Sounds a little weird, doesn’t it?
But bear with me.
If someone always seems to be in a rush when they’re with you, it could be more than just a busy schedule. It could be that they’re not interested in spending time with you or building a real relationship.
They’ll smile, nod, and even engage in light conversation. But the moment you get too deep or need their support, they suddenly have to sprint away.
It’s their subtle way of keeping you at arm’s length. By doing this, they maintain the appearance of friendship without having to invest any real emotional energy.
Don’t let their rush fool you.
Real friendships take time and investment — if they’re always in a rush, it might be time to question their intentions.
4) They rarely initiate contact
Have you ever noticed a friend who always responds when you reach out to them but never seems to initiate contact themselves?
This could be a sign that they’re keeping you around for convenience rather than true friendship. They’re happy to chat when you make the effort, but they never think about you when you’re not right in front of them.
Real friendships are a two-way street. Both parties should be equally invested in maintaining contact and nurturing the relationship.
So pay attention to those who seem to leave all the work to you. It might be time for some honest reflection about where you stand with them.
5) Inaccurate Body Language
Body language speaks volumes.
If someone is smiling at you but their arms are crossed, or they’re leaning away from you instead of leaning toward you, it could be a sign that they’re not as friendly as they seem.
These subconscious signals often reveal more than their words. So, watch their body language – it might be telling you everything you need to know.
6) They ignore your feelings
We all have bad days.
Days when we feel down and need someone to lean on. A true friend will be there for you, offering a listening ear and a comforting word.
But if someone constantly dismisses your feelings or belittles your problems, it’s a clear sign that they’re not as supportive as they may seem.
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They may be all smiles and laughs when you’re happy, but the moment you’re feeling down, they’re nowhere to be found.
Remember that everyone deserves to have their feelings acknowledged. Don’t let anyone make you feel otherwise. Your feelings are genuine, and a true friend will never belittle them.
7) They gossip around you
If someone is constantly gossiping around you, they’re almost certainly doing the same thing to you when you’re not around.
These individuals thrive on drama and often don’t care much about other people’s feelings.
So, the next time someone starts gossiping.
Final Thoughts
Discovering the harsh realities of fake friendships can be a tough pill to swallow.
However, it’s important to remember that people’s behaviors are a reflection of them, not you. Their actions speak volumes about who they are, not you.
Recognizing these signs is the first step toward healthier relationships. It helps us set boundaries and prioritize our emotional well-being. It guides us toward authentic relationships, where mutual respect and loyalty prevail.
Remember to always be kind to yourself. Healing and growth are not linear processes. It’s okay to take your time.
Finally, let’s not forget—there are plenty of genuine, caring people out there. People who will celebrate your triumphs, support you during your lows and cherish your friendship just as much as you cherish theirs.
So here’s to nurturing those connections and stepping into a space of authentic connection and mutual respect. You deserve nothing less.
Take care of yourself.
