What should be said to people who you want nothing to do with?

Question

I'm in my mid-twenties and I'm finally realizing who my real friends are and who my true enemies are. Obviously, I want nothing to do with my enemies. The problem is that alot of my enemies don't realize that I consider them my enemies and that I'm through with them.

So, what should be said to such people when, for example, they see me in a store, at a church, in an airport, at a family function, etc, etc. and they say something, like ~ "Hey, Kimberly, how are you .... blah, blah, blah. We haven't seen each other in so long... Give me your number (or what's your new address?)."

Obviously, I don't want these people to have my phone number, address, and I really would hope they don't remember my name or face; but what do I say to such people?

Also, what should be said when such people say things like ~ "Where are you working now?", or "What are you doing now" or any other question about ME, even if it's as simple as "Do you have a dog?" I feel like it's none of my enemies' business when it comes to anything about me, no matter how small.

So, what should be the response to such people's inquiries?

Answer 1

I am 29 and have had the same experience. These people are called "frenemies." People who pretend to be friends wo are really your enemies.

I tried ignoring some frenemies and most got the clue. Some had to be told repeatedly and one I had to tell her off. I had people from high school request to be my friends on Myspace and then leave me nasty rude comments. I am sure they just wanted to see what I was doing. Things like going to college and not popping out 3 kids by different men like they did. Guess it made them angry.

Some you could jut give a wrong number and make up things to tell them. The website www.rejectionhotline.com actually has fake numbers for people to give out with funny recordings for these types of situations.

When someone pretends to be your friend and just wants information from you, tell them in a nice tone of voice, "it's really none of your business." Tell them you don't appreciate them pretending to be your friend and getting details about your life and then gossiping about it later or using it against you. It will be very unexpected and they will know they are busted and that you are onto their sick little game.

I have done the above and it worked. Also, you could ask them what they have been doing and criticize it and act snotty. That has worked too.

I generally find ignoring this type of behavior makes the frenemy think you don't know what they are up to or they somehow think you will just put up with it.

Keep in mind these people are most likely motivated out of jealousy and insecurity. If they actually had a life of their own they wouldn't be worrying about yours.

Answer 2

Just ignore them and if they say hi, say hi but as if you don't really care. Don't completely shut them out of your life. You might need them someday.

Answer 3

Im sorry, you must have the wrong person...................

Answer 4

lie!...give 'em a fake number ect....they'll get the point when they call.

or just say sorry but youve been really busy and you don't have time and walk away

Answer 5

Are they enemies or just people you don't like.  If you don't have caller ID, you need it.  Give them a wrong address.  Regarding work, tell them your in the process of looking now, that you have a few leads but nothing firm.  Regarding what are you doing now, tell them you're busy trying to find work.  Never return a call to any of them or accept an invitation out.

Answer 6

Lie.

Make yourself and your personality seem revolting. The only reason they talk to you is because you are a nice person, so don't be. Make them never want to talk to you again.

If that doesn't work, just tell them straight to their face that you don't like them. It may be harsh, but they won't bother you anymore.

Answer 7

to bad you have enemies . I have acquaintances , my enemies are people that have done me wrong [steal,lie cheat,etc.] It's not good to hate..bad for the health

Answer 8

Just turn the conversation back to them. If they ask where you live say "I moved across town, where are you living?" Take control of the conversation so they have to answer your questions instead of you answering theirs. If you know where and what your enemies are doing it will be much easier to avoid them.

Answer 9

Good for your for sorting things out so early in your life.

If you run into someone and you don't want to talk to them or give them personal information, you could be in a huge hurry and promise to look them up, but you just have to go right now.  If you're asked personal contact information, tell them you are just getting ready to move and will contact them once you have your new address and/or phone number.  

Answer 10

Simply say, "Well HEY there!  I would LOVE to chat, but I'm really in a hurry right now!  Take care!  BYE!"  And leave it at that, and move on.

No need for excuses, explanations, lies, etc.... pleasantries have been exchanged, but not information... and all is well with the world.

Have a polite day.

Answer 11

Tell them that you are very busy, and that you have not had any time for them lately.  I'm sure they will understand your meaning.

Answer 12

why are they talking to you if they are your enemies?? just act really busy and say I'm in a rush sorry i have to go..or be straight forward and tell them the problem you have with them...