When Admiration Crosses the Line: The Strange Reality of Being Stalked, Imitated, and Followed

In life, we encounter all kinds of people—some who uplift us, some who challenge us, and some who leave us questioning reality. For me, I’ve had my fair share of strange encounters with individuals who have taken an unusual level of interest over the years in my life. I don’t mean to sound egotistical with this post, but I’ve experienced situations where people have formed imaginary friendships or relationships with me, convinced we share a bond that simply doesn’t exist. They copy my physical style, my image, the places I visit, rare interests I have and even the work I do.

And let’s be clear—this isn’t about claiming ownership over what I do. I fully understand that inspiration is part of life, especially in my field. My role is to influence, inspire, and guide, and I take that responsibility seriously. But there’s a distinct difference between being inspired by someone and attempting to embody their existence.

When Inspiration Becomes Obsession

We live in a world where admiration can quickly turn into obsession. Social media has blurred the boundaries between personal and public life, making it easier for people to feel connected—even when that connection isn’t real. It’s one thing to respect someone’s work or lifestyle; it’s another to imitate them so closely that it feels invasive.

What’s particularly intriguing—and unsettling—is that the issue isn’t coming from men. It’s women. Women who, instead of forging their own paths, are choosing to follow mine step by step, almost as if my life is a blueprint for their own.

Protecting Myself & My Business

While I don’t control the actions of others, I do have a responsibility to protect myself, my energy, and my business. I can’t allow someone else’s fixation to affect my well-being or the integrity of the work I do. Here’s how I navigate this strange reality:

• Setting Strong Boundaries – I don’t engage with individuals who cross that line. Blocking, limiting access, or even cutting off communication when necessary is essential.

• Practising Discernment – Not everyone who follows or supports is doing so with good intentions. I remain mindful of who I allow into my space.

• Energy Protection – Spiritually and emotionally, I take steps to shield myself—whether through prayer, grounding practices, or simply keeping my private life as private as possible.

• Owning My Power – At the end of the day, no one can truly replicate me. They can try to copy my look, my words, my work—but they can’t be me.

A Final Thought

There’s something deeply fascinating about the psychology behind this behaviour. What drives a person to fixate on another’s life rather than build their own identity? Is it admiration? Envy? A sense of lacking within themselves?

Whatever the reason, I remind myself that while I don’t own what I do, I do own my peace, my energy, and my path. No one can take that from me.

And if you’ve ever found yourself in a similar situation, remember this: Your power isn’t in stopping them. Your power is in continuing to be so authentically yourself that no imitation could ever match the real thing.

so much love, Laila xox