Being genuinely kind and friendly is one thing, but there’s a subtle difference between those who are truly kind and those who only seem that way on the surface. The latter group often wears a mask of friendliness with darker intentions lurking beneath.
Here are 9 subtle behaviors to watch out for when someone seems friendly but might be evil:
1) Overly flattering: Excessive flattery can be a warning sign that someone is trying to win you over or lower your guard.
2) They’re only around when they need something: Be wary of people who only reach out when they need something from you, not because they genuinely care about your well-being.
3) Lack of empathy: Genuine friends show genuine interest in others’ feelings and concerns. If someone can’t seem to empathize with you, it might be a sign that they’re self-centered.
4) Breaking promises: People who are evil underneath often have no qualms about breaking their commitments or promises.
5) Constant criticism: Constructive criticism is one thing, but constant criticism can be a way to tear others down and undermine their confidence.
6) Taking more than they give: A healthy friendship involves mutual support and reciprocity. If someone only takes from you without giving back, it’s a red flag.
7) Vagueness about personal life: People who are hiding something might be vague about their personal life or avoid answering direct questions.
8) Dismissing your feelings: Genuine friends listen to and validate others’ emotions. If someone dismisses your feelings as unimportant, it’s a sign that they’re self-centered.
9) Breaking boundaries: Healthy relationships involve setting clear boundaries. If someone consistently disregards your boundaries, it’s a sign of a toxic dynamic.
The key takeaway is that recognizing these behaviors doesn’t just help you spot fake friends – it also helps you protect yourself by setting clear boundaries. As Dr. Henry Cloud says, “Setting boundaries is a way of caring for myself.” Don’t settle for relationships built on manipulation or toxicity; instead, prioritize mutual respect, honesty, and genuine kindness.
Source: https://personalbrandingblog.com/people-who-are-friendly-on-the-surface-but-evil-underneath-often-display-these-9-subtle-behaviours