Envy. the poison of the soul

A Self-Destructive Emotion

Unlike other negative emotions such as anger or fear, which can have a protective function, envy is almost universally destructive.

It is a painful emotion that arises from desiring something (an object, a quality, a success) that another person possesses.

What makes it particularly poisonous is that its suffering is self-inflicted.

It makes us feel inferior, diminishes our own satisfaction with what we have, and puts us in a position of hostility toward the envied person.

Envy vs. Admiration

It is crucial to distinguish envy from admiration.

Admiration for another's accomplishments can be a powerful source of inspiration.

It motivates us to improve and emulate the qualities we admire.

Envy, on the other hand, does not seek personal improvement, but often wishes the other person would lose what they have so that we won't feel so bad.

Admiration says "I want to be like you"; Envy says, "I don't want you to have that."

Envy in the Age of Social Media.

Social media has created a perfect breeding ground for envy.

We are constantly exposed to idealized, carefully curated versions of others' lives, which facilitates social comparison and feelings that our own lives are lacking.

This constant stream of "highlights" from others can lead to chronic dissatisfaction and an envy epidemic.

The Antidote

Gratitude and Focus on One's Own Path: Smart management of envy involves two key strategies.