It starts small. Maybe your friend compliments your outfit, then shows up in a very similar one next week. Then they start picking up your hobbies, your favorite catchphrase, even your Starbucks order.

At first, it feels flattering. Who doesn't want to be a trendsetter? You might even feel a little proud. But after a while, it starts to feel like… wait, do I even have anything that’s just mine anymore?

If you’ve got a copycat friend, know this: you’re not being dramatic. It's a real thing, and it is more common than people think. Especially in middle school and high school, when everyone's still figuring out who they are, it's not unusual for some people to latch onto others for a sense of identity. It can be frustrating when someone keeps mirroring your identity.

But here's the complicated part: it's usually not evil. Most of the time, people copy others because they're unsure of themselves, not because they're trying to mess with you. They might admire you, or want to feel closer to you.

This doesn't excuse it, but it does explain a little. Here are 5 ways to handle it - without causing a meltdown in your friend group.

1. Check Your Feelings

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Before jumping into, “I can’t work this person”, pause and ask yourself: What is it that’s bothering me?

Is it that they copied your outfit or that they are always replicating things that feel personal to you? There’s a difference between being inspired and feeling like your identity is being taken.

Getting clear on why this is bothering you will help you talk about it without causing unbearable drama.

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2. Have the Conversation

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This doesn’t have to be confrontational. Think about it like setting your boundaries. Try something like:

“Hey! I noticed you started doing a lot of the things I’m interested into - and while I know it might mean you like those things too, sometimes it feels like I don’t have space to be myself.”

It’s not accusing them of anything, just explaining how you feel. And if they’re a good friend, they’ll want to know.

3. See How They React

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A real friend will take what you you said seriously and respect your space. They might not change immediately, but they’ll at least respect your feelings.

If instead they get super defensive, make you feel guilty or pretend it’s not happening, that’s a red flag. Friendships are supposed to feel safe - not like you’re trying to compete.

4. Keep a Little for Yourself

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Not everything needs to be shared. You're allowed to have personal interests, ideas, or even style choices that stay yours - without broadcasting them to the world (or your overinspired friend).

That doesn't mean shutting people out. It means giving yourself breathing room to grow without someone constantly shadowing your moves.

5. Accept That It Might Keep Happening

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Here's the truth: if you're creative, unique or ahead of the curve, people will copy you. And while it's annoying, it also says something cool about you - you're setting trends without even trying.

So protect your space, speak up when you need to, and know that your originality goes way deeper than what any friend could ever copy

Bottom Line

It's okay to feel weird about being copied. It's okay to say something. And it's definitely okay to want to be your own person without someone borrowing your entire personality. Just remember: your style, your ideas, and your voice are yours - and no one can copy that. forever.