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SPOTTING THE SWAPPERS

SPOTTING A SWAPPER EARLY

The sooner you recognize someone’s intentions, the easier it is to keep them from disrupting your path. Not everyone enters your life to support you. Some arrive to study you, copy you, delay you, or even attempt to take your place.

Those who measure themselves against you over and over aren’t simply insecure; they’re keeping score. Their compliments often come with an edge, like “You’re lucky — things always work out for you.” You may notice them shifting conversations back to themselves whenever you share good news.

One of the clearest signs is excessive curiosity. They ask too many questions, probe into areas that aren’t theirs to know, and show a particular interest in your wins; whether that’s your finances, relationships, or creative projects. Rather than supportive, it feels like they’re pushing into your space.

Mirroring can be another warning. At first, it might seem flattering when someone picks up your style, habits, or phrases. Over time, though, you realize it’s an attempt to wear your identity.

Jealousy isn’t always loud. Some of the most successful people in your circle may still envy your peace, creativity, or the way people respond to you. You’ll feel it when they downplay your achievements, plant seeds of doubt, or suddenly try to replicate what you’ve shared.

True supporters celebrate your wins without reservation. Those pretending will show their discomfort the moment you shine. They may have more material advantages than you, but they can’t replicate your essence. That’s why they fixate: asking about your projects, hovering around your plans, and borrowing your ideas. Once is coincidence; twice is curiosity; beyond that, it’s a pattern.

Don’t mistake proximity for purpose. Vet friends and acquaintances the same way you’d vet a business partner. Are they grounded in their own life, or are they orbiting yours, waiting for an opening? Growth challenges people’s comfort zones, and the closer they are to you, the more your progress can trigger them.

If you’ve poured into people who never gave back, that season is over. Make space for relationships that build you instead of bleeding you. Some people aren’t praying for you, they’re preying on you.

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