Loyal Friend Giving Two Coworkers Endless Desserts for a Year to Make Them Gain Weight After They Made Fun of Their Oldest Friend's Lisp and Physique

A loyal friend sought vengeance against those who mocked their high school buddy's lisp using desserts. OP and Bob are in their 40s.

They happen to work for the same company but in different locations. Employees typically move from one location to another to receive the necessary training.

OP wasn't at work when Bob visited their location to attend a half-day training. Bob is a kind guy with a big heart.

He was mocked for his lisp during high school and was also overweight—these physical attributes negatively affected Bob's self-esteem.

That didn't change the fact that Bob is an incredibly cool guy, and he was also one of OP's oldest friends. The day after Bob's training, OP went to the front office to greet the secretaries as usual.

OP saw them talking with fake lisps before bursting into fits of laughter afterward. OP was aware that Bob had been there the day before but decided to play dumb.

OP asked the secretaries what inspired their fake lisps. They could barely contain their mirth while answering OP's question and clearly had no idea that Bob was OP's friend.

One secretary replied, "The guy from the other place sounded like a loser who would probably never find a woman." They described Bob's physique and painted a picture of how they imagined he would be in bed.

OP was pissed but kept their face neutral. "You guys are terrible," OP said to the secretaries, who looked smug.

Reddit

OP knew how much the secretaries enjoyed desserts. He spent a year showering them with sweet offerings to secretly help them gain weight.

Reddit

OP joked around with them, and they gratefully accepted his gifts without a second thought.

Reddit

Understanding Motivations Behind Revenge Behaviors

The act of seeking revenge, especially in the workplace, often stems from feelings of anger and betrayal. Psychological research indicates that revenge can be seen as a coping mechanism for perceived injustices. When individuals feel wronged, they may resort to retaliatory behaviors as a means of regaining a sense of control.

However, while these actions may provide short-term satisfaction, they often lead to long-term negative consequences, including damaged relationships and increased stress. Understanding these motivations is essential for addressing conflicts in a constructive manner.

Understanding Motivation and Revenge

The desire for revenge is often rooted in feelings of betrayal and hurt. Research in social psychology suggests that when individuals feel wronged, they may resort to punitive behaviors to regain a sense of control. This reaction is not uncommon, as it often stems from a need to balance perceived injustices.

However, studies also indicate that revenge can lead to a cycle of negativity that ultimately harms the individual seeking it. Understanding the psychological motives behind such actions can help individuals navigate their emotions more effectively.

OP estimated that they gained about 40 lbs each thanks to his sugary presents. They are complaining to each other about how the weight gain affected them. Bob never found out about what the secretaries said about him or OP's vengeance. He left their company long ago, but OP isn't done giving desserts to the secretaries.

Reddit

If OP learned how to bake, they would save more money.

IMAGINARIAN_photos

The secretaries watched Mean Girls too many times and took all the wrong lessons from it.

RayEd29

A clinical psychologist suggests that the underlying issues driving revenge behaviors often relate to unresolved emotional wounds. When individuals react harshly, it may indicate deeper insecurities or past traumas that have not been addressed. According to studies published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, unresolved feelings can manifest in destructive ways, impacting interpersonal dynamics.

This highlights the importance of emotional intelligence and self-awareness in navigating conflicts and fostering healthier responses.

From a behavioral perspective, actions taken out of revenge can often lead to unintended consequences. When individuals engage in retaliatory behavior, they may inadvertently escalate conflicts rather than resolve them. Research shows that fostering forgiveness and understanding can lead to healthier interpersonal relationships and emotional well-being.

OP's patience and determination to play the long game is admirable.

hugh_h0ney

If they aren't planning to stop anytime soon, this could be a good idea.

thekiwionee

They can replace Hansel and Gretel now.

becaolivetree, the_rainmaker__, wwwhistler

Constructive Conflict Resolution Strategies

To address conflicts effectively, individuals can employ constructive conflict resolution strategies. Techniques such as active listening and empathy can transform potential confrontations into productive conversations. Research shows that when individuals feel heard and understood, they are more likely to engage in collaborative problem-solving rather than retaliatory behaviors.

Additionally, seeking mediation or involving a neutral third party can help facilitate discussions and resolve disputes amicably.

The Psychological Cost of Holding Grudges

Holding onto grudges can have significant psychological costs. Studies in clinical psychology indicate that unresolved conflicts can lead to chronic stress and emotional distress, impacting overall well-being. Letting go of negative feelings can be challenging but is essential for personal growth and healing.

Engaging in practices such as mindfulness and self-reflection can help individuals process their emotions and cultivate forgiveness, which is crucial for emotional health.

OP's coworkers are terrible people. They didn't even catch on that OP was deliberately feeding them sweets. They didn't think there was anything wrong with what they said.

faxanaduu

Redditors were willing to chip in to fund OP's valiant campaign.

LO6Howie, Reddit

OP is a fructose parent.

thelottz

Furthermore, fostering a culture of open communication in the workplace can reduce feelings of resentment and frustration. Studies indicate that workplaces that prioritize transparency and dialogue experience lower levels of conflict and higher employee satisfaction. Encouraging employees to express their concerns openly can create a more harmonious environment.

To navigate feelings of revenge, individuals can benefit from developing healthy coping strategies. Cognitive-behavioral techniques can help reframe negative thoughts and reduce the urge for retaliation. Seeking support from a therapist or counselor can provide valuable insights and tools to manage these feelings in a constructive manner.

They only saw Bob for half a day and formed all of these negative opinions about him based on how he spoke and how he looked. They finally found their match in OP.

They finally met someone who was patient and willing to hold them accountable. The downside is that it's unlikely they learned anything from OP's sweet, sweet revenge.

Fostering Empathy in Difficult Situations

Empathy plays a crucial role in mitigating feelings of revenge and fostering understanding. Research shows that when individuals practice empathy, they can shift their perspective from one of hurt to one of compassion. This shift can lead to more constructive responses and ultimately promote healing in relationships.

Encouraging open dialogue about feelings and experiences can help individuals understand one another better and reduce the desire for revenge.

Psychological Analysis

This situation highlights the complexities of human behavior in response to perceived injustices. It's essential to approach these feelings with understanding and empathy to foster healing rather than further conflict.

Analysis generated by AI

Analysis & Alternative Approaches

Understanding the psychological dynamics behind revenge can help individuals navigate their emotions more effectively. By fostering empathy and seeking constructive solutions, they can break free from the cycle of negativity and promote healthier relationships.

The Role of Forgiveness in Healing

Forgiveness can play a vital role in healing workplace relationships. Research in social psychology suggests that individuals who practice forgiveness experience lower levels of stress and improved emotional well-being. By letting go of grudges, employees can foster a more positive work environment and improve their mental health.

Workshops and training focused on emotional intelligence and conflict resolution can equip employees with the necessary tools to navigate difficult situations and promote forgiveness as a means of healing.

Psychological Analysis

This situation illustrates a common psychological response to perceived injustice in the workplace. When individuals feel wronged, they may resort to revenge as a way to reclaim power. However, it's essential to recognize that these behaviors often exacerbate conflict rather than resolve it, highlighting the need for constructive conflict resolution strategies.

Analysis generated by AI

Analysis & Alternative Approaches

The motivations behind revenge behaviors in the workplace reveal much about human emotions and conflict dynamics. According to Dr. John Gottman, a renowned marriage researcher, "Conflict is a natural part of relationships, but how we handle it can either strengthen or weaken our bonds." Addressing underlying issues and fostering constructive communication is crucial for improving workplace relationships. By prioritizing forgiveness and emotional intelligence, organizations can cultivate healthier work environments that benefit everyone, as emphasized by Dr. Pat Love, a relationship therapist, who states, "Forgiveness is the key to healing and moving forward in any relationship."