Ask Lauren: How Do You Deal With a Copycat Friend?
Ask Me Anything August has always been one of my favorite months of the year. I get to know my readers a little bit better, and I hope that you’re learning new things about me too. Last week I started off the month with 10 fun facts about me, and today I’m returning with a reader-submitted question that I’ve never received before. Here’s what she had to say…
Hi Lauren! I’ve been dealing with a copycat friend for quite some time now. I’m talking taking tattoo ideas and baby names, not just what I like to order at Starbucks. They say imitation is the highest form of flattery, but it’s going to ruin our friendship. Help!
Friendships, and all relationships for that matter, can be difficult to navigate at times. While some imitation can be flattering, there is a definite limit to that. I think that there are a couple of different ways to help you deal with this problem and nip it in the bud for the future. My first piece of advice? Talk it out. Clear communication about your feelings is important, whether it’s with your BFF or significant other. Let them know how you feel, while giving them the benefit of the doubt and not just placing blame. Maybe there is an explanation you didn’t see coming, or maybe your friend didn’t even realize she was doing it. Yes, there is a chance she might just get defensive. But I still believe in open communication with people you care about.
My second bit of advice would be to keep things to yourself. I’m a fairly private person and I’ve found that this is the safest way to avoid a copycat situation. If you’re afraid of someone copying you, don’t share your idea with anyone but yourself. Keep your baby name or tattoo idea private until you actually have the baby or get the tattoo. (If your friend is still copying your actual tattoo or actual baby’s name and not just the ideas, that’s a whole different story…) It may seem simple, but it can save you a lot of heartbreak in the end.
Do you have any helpful advice on how to deal with a copycat friend?
Let everyone know in the comments below…
XO Lauren
Photos: Jessi Burrone for LC Lauren Conrad
Affiliate links may have been used in this post.
