Journal Entry #1 — The First Red Flags I Missed

When you’re in the middle of it, the warning signs feel like background noise. You see the odd patterns, the strange energy shifts… but you explain them away because you want to believe the best in someone.

For me, it started with what I now call data collection. Every conversation somehow circled back to my life, my struggles, my experiences. At the time, it felt like someone genuinely taking interest. In hindsight, it was gathering ammunition.

What did I get in return? Nothing real. Nothing balanced. If they shared anything, it was wrapped in a victim story — a way to keep the spotlight just dim enough that I didn’t notice the control being built around me.

The Shift to Competition

Then came the competition. When I worked on projects, there was fake interest… not to support me, but to take notes. To see where I got frustrated, what obstacles I faced. And instead of cheering me on, they would suddenly start their own project — not the same as mine, but close enough that it felt like a silent challenge.

“Anything you can do, I can do better.”

Only it wasn’t playful — it was draining. It wasn’t about creating; it was about one-upping. And when their project hit a wall? Somehow, it was my fault. Or I became the target for not swooping in to fix it — even though it was something they chose to do.

Looking back, I can see the truth more clearly: red flags aren’t always loud. Sometimes they’re competitive shadows, mirrored moves, and quiet patterns designed to chip away at your peace.

If This Is You

You are not crazy. You are not broken. And you are not alone. This movement exists because we’ve been there — and together, we’re breaking the chains.

Have you lived through competition disguised as care? Share your story in the comments or reach out through our Contact Page. Your voice matters here.

Stay powerful.