Envy & Jealousy

Envy and jealousy are often intertwined; they both create feeling of the desire what for another person has. While envy creates a negative feeling, there is often a bit of admiration that runs through it. Jealous, on -the-other-hand, often involves an element of resentment. Both emotions can teach you something about yourself and your relationships.

Is there someone in your life you’re envious of?

1/ Brain storm some ideas about what you think you are envious. What you come up with might surprise you. 

For example, at one time in my life I was envious of a friend who was climbing her way up the corporate ladder. At first, I thought I was envious because of her success--but once I began to dig deeper I realized it wasn't her job or position that I envied. What I envied was the freedom and opportunities she had to travel as a result of her position.

2/ Recognize envy as a sign that you might want to make a change in your life. Sometimes we don't realize there was even a certain desire, until we see that someone else has it. Use the feeling to create motivation to make changes and go after what you want in  your life.

If it's the green-eyed monster your up against do yourself a favor and explore what is going on.  Here's how:

1/Identify why you feel threatened or insecure.  Is it because you aren't confident in your relationship? Not sure how the other person feels? Unclear about where you stand?

2/ Get really honest about how real the "fears" are.

3/After the feeling of jealousy has subsided, have a conversation. Talk to the other person about your concerns. Get on the same page. Or, have a conversation with yourself, reminding yourself of what you bring to the table in the relationship.

When all is said an done, take envy and/or jealousy as sign that you examine that part of your life and/or relationships.

Message me today if you want help understanding why envy and/or jealousy are showing up and what you can do.