Dear Christine,

I am 24 years of age and have always looked up to my sister, who is four years older than me. She is a bit bossy, but it never used to bother me.

However, I am now starting to feel angry with her. You see, a few months ago I went on a diet and lost a lot
of weight – two stones. I also had things done to my hair (a new haircut and so on.) My friends have told me how good I look, but my sister doesn't.

Instead she makes snide remarks. I asked her if my new look was upsetting her, but she told me not to be ridiculous.

However, Christine, I find her behaviour really hurtful but don't know what to do about it. What do you think is happening here?

– L.T.K.

Dear L.T.K.,

I suspect your sister suddenly feels threatened by your new look and newly-found confidence; perhaps, that she relied on your adoration to make her feel good.

This means she isn't the
self-assured person you grew up believing her to be.

Be proud of what you have achieved, but also be aware that your sister is clearly struggling with this role reversal. Try not
to see it as an attack on you, but more a sign that she's not happy with who she is. Be gentle.

– CHRISTINE