Friendship

Let's say a friend advises you to make a particular choice; for example, that you should apply for your old job. Maybe she provides numerous flattering reasons why you'd be great at it, why you're so needed in the position, how happy you'll be with the change.

After your interview, your friend reveals that she has a new job that she'll be taking in a few months, and she wants you to take over her caseload (once you're in the position).

This friend is pathologically honest. You have no reason to doubt her opinion that you'll be successful & happy in this new/old job; after all, she entrusts her caseload to you.

Does her self-serving scheme negate her ability to give sound advice based on your best interest? Can you believe she wouldn't manipulate you into doing something not in your best interest (although not actively harmful) in order to play out her plan?

Maybe most importantly, how did I fail to see this coming? And do I care why she did it if I think I want to make the move?

I loathe feeling like a fly caught so easily in a web. Thought I was making progress on thinking for myself; now I can't tell if this is my idea or hers.