Page 60 - Female Photo Fashion Magazine Cover-10.pdf

So many people suffer from the Green- Eyed Monster called Envy. An envious (or covetous) person is not happy for others when they achieve success. Other people’s success makes them feel unhappy. Also, an envious person, instead of pushing for their own originality, constantly tries to copy the person they envy. They are incredibly jealous of the things that are yours. Whether it’s good looks, material possessions, friends, family, accomplishments, careers, they want it all. Envy is simply a symptom of lack of appreciation for your own uniqueness and self-worth. Each of us has something to give that no one else has. So Why Envy?
I wonder how many people actually realize that the grass is greener where they water it? Max Frisch, was a Swiss playwright and novelist who once stated, “Jealousy (or Envy) is the fear of comparison”. Frisch’s work focused on the problems of identity, individuality, responsibility and morality. But who would’ve thought that being “Green with Envy” is actually a big deal? Well it is. Envy shoots at others and wounds itself. Socrates even stated that, “Envy is the ulcer of the soul”.
Envy is when you count someone else’s blessings instead of your own. It is usually caused by a dissatisfaction or perception with self-image or your actual status. This dissatisfaction is called “low self-esteem”. Because you feel inferior to the person you envy, envy is also related to shame.
Why is Envy so painful? A report in Scientific American (2009) showed that the
agony of envy really does ache, because envy activates a part of the brain that processes physical pain both mentally and physically. What’s more, the brain registers pleasure when the person they envy has a bad day. Envious people tend to be or feel hostile, resentful, angry and irritable. Such individuals are also less likely to feel grateful about their positive traits and their circumstances.
If you ever feel envy inside, ask yourself 1. What exactly do you envy? 2. Why do you believe this is so important to you? 3. Why don’t you believe something similar can be true for you? It is also important to shift the focus to the goodness in your life. Stop comparing. At the root of envy is the belief that someone else’s success is a referendum on yours. Spend time with grateful people. Celebrate the success of others. Own up to your own feelings. Be generous.
Also, what do you do if you feel that someone is envious of you? Empathize with them. Address the matter head on (if possible). But sometimes, you may have to limit your interactions with them. This may be your only recourse or safe haven in most cases.
Don’t be drawn to the envy, jealousy and insecure cycle. Instead, be the hustler, the well-wisher and the go-getter. Instead of being “Green with Envy,” be green with Go- Power and Go Get It!
The spirit of envy can only destroy: it can never build. Love does not envy. There is enough out here for each and every one of us. Don’t hate... Collaborate!!!