Through the 8 years since I've started my business, many clients have become friends but many friends later also become strangers. We had helped each other through the hard and difficult times. We were locked together elbow to elbow, standing proudly and facing the pounding waves that tried to wash us away. Many a times, after the ordeal, we held our head high and laugh heartily at the golden rays that peeked through the parting clouds after the heavy storm. When we survived the hard times together, I always thought the friendship formed during the tumultuous times will forge a bond that binds us together forever.The reality sucks.I've a client which during the bad times, I've spent countless hours chatting with them, encouraging them on, being their cheerleader and they have always seek my advice when they needed help. When payment was late, I never chased them. Finally, they managed to establish and carved a niche for themselves. I was really glad and happy for them.Once they had an event and asked for my opinion after the product launch. I gave them my honest opinion and constructive criticisms. Later, I heard from other friends that they were very unhappy with my comments. I was shocked and surprised. I thought they had asked for my frank opinion which I've shared. Apparently, they only wanted to hear praises. They no longer can take criticisms now that they are 'somebody' in the industry. Since then, I've become wary of what I can say to them.Just yesterday, I was disappointed by another friend.We had started our business almost at the same time. We've made a pact that we'll not be tainted by the industry and we'll always remain as fast friends. If we were ever successful, we'll never let it consume us and we'll not be overtly proud.Fast forward to today.Due to the current economic sentiments, her business has not been good. But instead of looking at herself, she blames my product for not being able to bring her business. I just grit my teeth. I hated her condescending tones when she spoke to me. Just because someone in the industry praised her talent, she threw all caution to the wind. People in the industry has warned her about them, told her to be careful. After her meeting with them, she chose to value their opinions and put me down with her comments. I'm frustrated. I'm hurt. It cuts like a knife when you are betrayed.What happened to the friendship which we've formed when we've went through thick-and-thin together? Is our friendship so weak that it can't even withstand the saccharine praises by someone who wants to make use of you? Was it necessary for you to put me down?Disappointment.To protect myself from being hurt, I've to run faster. I must not ever be caught in a vulnerable position where I've failed. Some 'friends' are like vultures circling over you, waiting to pounce on you when you fall.I must run faster and be more successful. Because the alternative is failure where 'friends' are waiting to stab you from behind and add insult to injury.I guess success is a path you've to walk alone.