When Support Turns Shady: Navigating the Awkward Side of Success

Let’s talk about a universal truth: Not everyone in your circle is clapping for you. Some are just waiting to see if you trip so they can say, “I knew it wouldn’t last.” Others will pretend to be your biggest cheerleader—until you start getting a little too good. Suddenly, the applause dies down, and next thing you know, they’re either ghosting you or trying to do exactly what you do—but, you know, better.

Oh, and let’s not forget the classic move: the no-credit copycat. You pour your heart into your work, whether it’s your education, writing a book, or starting a business. You put in sleepless nights, moments of doubt, and that deep, soul-crushing “what if no one cares?” feeling—only for someone to roll up a month later acting like they invented the concept. And the best part? They’ll act like your work inspired them but won’t mention your name once.

I know, it sucks. But you know what? It’s okay.

Your Biggest Fans? Strangers.

I don’t know who needs to hear this, but your real audience is not your cousin who still borrows money from you, nor is it your school friends who only remember you exist when they need something. It’s strangers. Yes, random people on the internet, folks in other cities, and that one person in a country you’ve never been to who follows your work religiously.

Why? Because strangers don’t see you as competition. They see you as someone who brings value. They aren’t stuck comparing your success to theirs because they don’t feel entitled to it. They support you without hesitation because they don’t have the emotional baggage of “Oh no, if they succeed, what does that say about me?”

Your hometown might never give you flowers, but that’s fine. The world is bigger than your zip code.

The “Oh No, They’re Winning” Syndrome

You ever notice how some people are all for you until you start really doing well? Like, at first, they’re hyping you up—

“Yoooo, I see you doing big things!”

But the moment your work starts gaining traction, they go suspiciously quiet. No more shares, no more shout-outs, no more “I always knew you’d make it” texts. Instead, you get passive-aggressive energy.

Why? Because people love an underdog—until the underdog starts winning.

Some folks can only support you when they feel like you’re still beneath them. The second you start rising, their ego feels threatened. It’s like watching someone try to climb a ladder while others shake it just to see if they can make them fall.

But here’s the plot twist: You’re not climbing the same ladder as them.

Let them be weird. Let them watch in silence. Let them copy (because, honestly, imitation is just a fancy form of admiration mixed with insecurity).

Keep Going Anyway

At the end of the day, you have two choices:

1. Get distracted by who’s not clapping. Waste your energy wondering why people switched up, who’s copying you, and who’s pretending they don’t see you.

2. Keep moving. Focus on the audience that actually values you.

I promise you, there are people who will love your work, your vision, and your talent—just not the ones you expected. And that’s okay. Growth often means outgrowing places, people, and the need for validation from the wrong crowd.

So, if you ever feel tempted to dwell on the lack of support from familiar faces, just remember: Beyoncé doesn’t get a standing ovation in her living room. Keep going.