Steps to Conquering Jealousy

Photo by Taylor Smith on Unsplash

Here are some ways to deal with the green-eyed monster.

When I was in my teens, I was a shy, backward person. I was envious of people around me who seemed to have it all. I fixated on one girl I will call Sandy who seemed to have it all.

I was part of a folk dancing group that often performed with people from other cultures. Sandy wore beautiful costumes and seemed to be the star of the group. She obviously came from a wealthy family. Sandy’s father was a furniture salesman and featured her in TV commercials. When I attended a beauty pageant, guess who was a finalist?

I hated how bad I felt about myself when I was envious. I have had other challenges since and have developed some strategies to deal with jealousy.

Recognize we do not have all the facts

I was talking to a classmate when Sandy’s name came up. I was surprised because Sandy attended another school. I found out that Sandy’s classmates disliked and bullied her, among other things.

We can never know everything about another person. The grass may look greener on the other side, but it may just be astroturf.

Stop comparing ourselves to others

Comparisons just make us miserable and lead to anger, hurt, and harmful actions.

Be grateful

Focusing on what we have instead of what other people have should fill us with gratitude.

Jealousy can be overcome if we work at it.