I recently started writing content for a local publication. While almost everyone has been hugely supportive, a best friend’s “supportive” comments have come across as critical. Just the other day he posted something snarky on my Facebook page about my writing. Should I unfriend him?

Wishing He’d Go Sell Crazy Somewhere Else

Dear WHGSCSE,

No. Set a boundary instead. “You put gum in my hair so I’m not going to talk to you again until the earth crashes into the sun,” only worked when we were 5.

Getting into your best friend’s head, he may be trying to subconsciously talk you out of your new endeavor in case it doesn’t work out. That way, he’s done his part in sparing you from eventual heartache. Or maybe he’s just a jerk. No way to tell which one he is at this point.

So getting back to the boundary. Tell him in a direct way of your choosing (e-mail, phone, in person) that while you appreciate his support, his comments don’t “feel” supportive. Also, say that if he’d like to support you in the future, to silently say a prayer for you, instead.

After this point, if the “support” continues, then you, my friend, have grounds for unfriending.