As kids, we were taught that jealousy was bad. Not surprisingly, as grown-ups, we don’t often admit feeling envious of a colleague. The latest research proves that hiding jealousy might not be the best decision though.
Apparently, we might learn from envy, as it reveals our real values and goals, the ones we sometimes don’t even admit we have. For example, a lawyer might become sick with jealousy towards a successful writer. It shows that writing might actually be her dream career that she’s never permitted herself to pursue due to the lack of stability in this field. Someone’s uplifted mood, on-point wardrobe, happy family or successful career are the things that can make us really edgy.
Psychologists agree that we’re usually most jealous of people who are really good at doing something we’ve always dreamed of doing ourselves. So, whenever we feel jealous that someone has something we don’t, instead of pretending we feel nothing, we should try to embrace it and figure out what exactly it is that we desire so badly. Admitting we simply want what that person has helps us to set up goals and start achieving them.
So, how do you make the most out of feeling envious? First of all, remind yourself it’s absolutely normal to feel that way. Come to terms with this emotion and figure out what your brain is trying to tell you. Then, make a list of the best qualities or achievements of the person whose life you covet and find out things you need to master to reach the position she is at. Plan the steps you need to make so that you can grow. Do you need to enrol in some courses? Start a side hustle? Maybe all you have to do is just start meditating and being grateful that you’re always in a good mood, similar traits to those of the happy person who’s currently sparking your jealousy at the moment? Now you have a clear plan and a final goal. Don’t waste any more time on negative emotions and make some great things happen!