Observation Helps
It was my first day at college as a DSY (Direct Second Year) student, so I was two months behind the rest of the class. I tried talking to some classmates, but being a DSY student, the regulars weren’t that friendly. Then, I met another DSY student named Neil Sanders.
When we first talked, Neil wouldn’t stop bragging about himself—his father’s business, how rich he is, what we should be doing, and more. Honestly, it was overwhelming. He kept talking about himself so much that it was almost frustrating. He even dragged me to the library to get a reference book for a subject. At first, I thought, Maybe he’s smart, maybe he’s focused on studying.
But instead of judging him immediately, I decided to observe. As we searched for the book, he kept bringing up topics I had zero interest in. He even admitted that his friends often ditch him because of his annoying personality. That was a red flag, but I kept listening and observing. I knew that sometimes, people who seem difficult can still be useful—especially if they have connections, like Neil’s rich dad.
After a few days of observation, it became clear: Neil wasn’t the big deal he made himself out to be. Sure, his dad had a business, but all that talk about how great he was? Pure exaggeration. And then it clicked—he was doing all this to get attention from girls. Neil was a classic simp, someone who will step on anyone for validation, but won’t have your back when you need help. I’ve seen this type before—they cause you trouble, ask for help, and then disappear when it’s your turn to need something.
So, in the end, I keep my distance. I’m around him, but I’m not with him.
Observation really helps you figure out who your real friends are—and who’s just looking out for themselves.