Why do some people try to outshine you/ are in a one sided competition with you?

[Anonymous]

Like some people picking up your hobby, dress style, mannerisms etc. after getting to know you. In my case it’s always women who would keep taking glances at me and for instance start wearing dresses, skirts or push up bras with tight tops at work for even though they tend to dress tomboyish or just not very feminine at all. Oftentimes those women already have boyfriends and don’t have to compete with me for work opportunities or male attention since they are more socially adept, objectively prettier and more advanced in their careers. So why would they feel the need to imitate me if they are already years ahead of me just as they are?

[ProbablyClueless]

Insecurity. Also, sometimes there are people who just get obsessed with other people. I've had that happen, and it can get really weird. They'll get obsessed where there's like this strange combination of envy and wanting to be that person/be better than that person, while also desperately wanting that person's approval.

That obsession creates a really creepy push/pull where they try to copy you and sabotage you. I don't know how else to describe it except to say that the person wants to be you, except... like... a better version of you... while also getting your stamp of approval.

[Asker]

Yeah but why would someone way more handsome and popular and intelligent feel insecure in comparison? Like everyone fawns over them and treats them like royalty while I am nothing

[ProbablyClueless]

emotions aren't objective

[Asker]

People always try to strike up conversations with her and call her beautiful. I however am avoided most of them time

[ProbablyClueless]

Emotions aren't objective 🤷🏽‍♂️

[Olivier-628]

Studies have shown that females are more competitive in a workplace if some sort of reward like a promotion is given.

So, my guess is that there's something they want to have that can be "won". Other than that, no clue.

[Asker]

It’s definitely not a promotion given our financial situation and we are not even working together so it’s weird. She has been working there for 13 years and I am just a temp

[Olivier-628]

some people are just like that.