Listen… if you’ve ever removed somebody on social media because you knew they didn’t like you, maybe the vibes were off, maybe they were low-key competing with you, or maybe they were just weird, yet somehow they still find their way to your page?
Baby, they’re committed. They will hover, lurk, refresh, and track you harder than the FBI, IRS, and Beyoncé’s fanbase combined.
And you know what? Instead of getting irritated, embarrassed, or confused…
Give. Them. Something. To. Watch.
Because nine times out of ten, their behavior has nothing to do with you being “that girl they hate” and everything to do with you being that girl they can’t stop watching.
Why do people watch from the shadows?
1. They’re jealous… but in denial
Let’s call it out gently but honestly sometimes people watch because your life is a mirror that reflects what they feel like they lack.
Your glow exposes their dimness. Your confidence exposes their insecurities. Your growth exposes their stagnation.
They’d never like your post because that would be too humbling, but they’ll zoom in on your story like it’s a CSI crime scene.
They want the blueprint… without admitting the inspiration came from you.
2. They’re curious and can’t let go
You cut ties. You closed the door.
But mentally? Spiritually? Emotionally?
They’re still standing in your hallway peeking through the keyhole.
Whether it’s an old friend, old fling, or someone who just doesn’t like seeing you do better than them curiosity will have them checking your stories like attendance.
They’re invested in the storyline.
You’re their favorite show, and that’s between them and their Wi-Fi.
3. You motivate them (even if they won’t admit it)
Some people don’t hate you.
They hate that you’re doing what they said y’all were going to do… but actually did it.
They’re studying your consistency.
Your discipline.
Your growth arc.
They’re watching because a part of them genuinely wants to be better but pride won’t let them learn openly.
So they study you anonymously.
So what do you do when the “I don’t like you but I watch everything you post” crew won’t log off?
Instead of shrinking, dimming, hiding, or adjusting your life to make someone comfortable…
Let that uncomfortable person continue watching from the balcony.
Here’s how to navigate it gracefully (and a little petty, but classy petty).
1. Keep shining like the rent is due
Posting your accomplishments isn’t bragging it’s documenting your journey.
Keep leveling up. Keep elevating. Keep evolving.
You’re not doing this for them.
You’re doing it in spite of them.
Every time they hate-watch your story, you remind them:
“This could be us, but ego got you blocked.”
Your success is not meant to be swallowed, it’s meant to be seen.
2. Protect your peace don’t feed the ego monster
Don’t confront them.
Don’t subtweet them.
Don’t ask mutual friends why they’re lurking.
Remember:
Silence is louder than explanation.
Nobody wins an argument with a person who is committed to misunderstanding you.
Stay unbothered.
Drink your water.
Apply your moisturizer.
Live your life.
Let them stare, scroll, and speculate.
3. Turn their attention into fuel
If someone is watching you this hard, that means you’re doing something right.
Let their obsession become motivation.
Create more.
Plan bigger.
Show up bolder.
If they insist on watching… give them:
✨ a better version of you every time they check
✨ a life they couldn’t imagine for themselves
✨ a glow they can’t deny
Because whether they admit it or not:
You’re their personal inspiration board.
This Mindful Monday is a reminder that being watched doesn’t mean you should dim your light.
People are going to lurk.
People are going to doubt.
People are going to critique from the shadows.
But you?
You were called to shine.
You were called to evolve.
You were called to be seen.
So the next time you notice that random profile viewing your stories, again, smile.
Because while they’re busy watching…
You’re busy becoming.
And that’s the real show.
Happy Mindful Monday, now go give them something to watch.
