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I’m sure we’ve all done a lot for a person who didn’t appreciate us at one time or another. They were negative when you wanted to be positive. They blocked you out when you tried to let them in. You made yourself available, and yet, that wasn’t enough. They wanted more and more from you. Why would they mistreat you?

The trouble with trying to find a reason is that sometimes it’s just not about you. Maybe they’re hurt, insecure, and battling with issues that don’t have anything to do with you. If you’ve found yourself dealing with the following people, distance yourself and build yourself up instead of staying around people who try to bring you down.

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Image Source: Shutterstock

Consider It a Compliment

You’re not going to be everyone’s flavor. And if negativity is what they’re into right now, it’s a compliment that you’re on the list of people they don’t want to be affiliated with.

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Image Source: Shutterstock

They’re Struggling to Value Their True Self

Some people are afraid of letting others in because they’re afraid you will discover that they’re not what they’ve been pretending to be.

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Image Source: Shutterstock

Stay at an Arm’s Length Emotionally

Don’t invest time in someone who can’t invest it back into you. In cases like this, it might be best to give them the space to find themselves while you find someone better suited for you.

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Image Source: Shutterstock

They Want You to Dim Your Light

Some people aren’t happy unless they’re the center of attention or doing the best. When you come up in life, they just can’t take it and become distant.

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Image Source: Shutterstock

You’re Stepping on Their Toes

Aristotle said, “The only way to avoid criticism is to say nothing, do nothing and be nothing.” When you live large, take a stand and live life with a point of view, you’re going to ruffle some feathers.

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Image Source: Shutterstock

You Can’t Give Them What They Need

Maybe your boss works best with a yes man who is happy to be a follower, but you’re an independent thinker with your own ideas to contribute. Some friends need someone who will always listen but struggle to be there when you have your own drama going on.