Sometimes the loudest applause is not always genuine. Some people celebrate you publicly but quietly work against you when progress begins to show. It is an uncomfortable truth in many workplaces, friendships, and professional networks.
🎭 How insincere support often appears
• You share a new project and receive enthusiastic comments, yet the same people never engage with your work again.
• You make a career shift, and instead of encouragement, you hear quiet predictions of failure.
• People express interest in your milestones but never follow through with any form of meaningful support.
🎯 Experiences many professionals relate to
💭 Someone shares their personal improvement journey, only to be met with subtle discouragement disguised as “concern.”
💭 A colleague praises your vision in meetings but privately presents your ideas as their own.
These situations happen more often than people admit.
🎯 A practical reality check
• The person who checks in on you when things are difficult? That is genuine support.
• The coworker who compliments your work but undermines you when decisions are made? Not genuine.
• The friend who celebrates your small progress? A keeper.
• The relative who only highlights your weaknesses under the guise of “advice”? Distance is healthy.
💡 Consider these principles as you advance in your journey
1. Notice when encouragement feels inconsistent.
2. Pay attention to who remains present when the momentum slows.
3. Be cautious with people who frame constant doubt as guidance.
4. Value those who celebrate your progress with sincerity, even when it is small.
🎬 Maintaining awareness is not negativity. It is maturity.
As you grow, your circle will naturally refine itself.
What is one form of fake support you’ve encountered in your journey?
Video credit: Original creators
Write-up: MARTIN KIPRONO®️™️
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