I'm not really sure how to answer your question. I'm not sure what you mean by exploited. But I have felt weird sometimes, after telling certain people my goals. Especially if it is something I really want, and the person who I told it to was either unencouraging, or dismissive. That being said, I have read that telling people and announcing your goals can make you lose momentum too. But I think it's a motivational thing, and I don't think it means it can't be done. If you run into them again and you're not there yet, it doesn't mean you never will be. Keep trying and working toward your goals.