Strategies to harness and redirect envy positively at work
ANN/THE DAILY STAR – Envy is a universal emotion that touches us all. Professional envy, in particular, is a sentiment most individuals will encounter at various points in their careers.
Discovering that friends are progressing in their careers and reaching goals you’ve long aspired to can naturally evoke feelings of jealousy. Yet, it’s essential to redirect this envy constructively.
Here are some ways in which you can use this emotion to your advantage.
Acknowledge your feelings
Managing professional jealousy begins with acknowledging and embracing your emotions. It’s normal to feel jealous or disappointed when a buddy accomplishes a dream you have for yourself.
Repressing or denying these feelings might worsen them and make it more difficult for you to move forward. Instead, allow yourself to feel those things without criticising them.
Instead of viewing your friend’s success as a threat to your own goals, take it as evidence that you can achieve your own. Utilise their successes as inspiration and proof that success is possible.
Reframe your perspective
As they serve as a reminder of what is still possible for you, you should extend your sincere congratulations to them for their achievements.
Focus on your journey
Realise that no two people have the same career path. Consider your own journey and advancement rather than comparing yourself to others. Consider your successes, no matter how minor, and make reasonable plans that complement your dreams. Develop a growth attitude that welcomes obstacles and sees failures as chances for improvement.
Turn envy into motivation
Use your envy to push you toward your objectives rather than letting it hamper your motivation.
Take advantage of your friend’s success to further motivate your own goals.
Let their successes motivate you to work harder, set greater goals, and pursue your ambitions with renewed passion. Turn your jealousy into action by being proactive in advancing your career and accomplishing your objectives.
Practice gratitude
Develop an attitude of gratitude for your own professional accomplishments to combat thoughts of jealousy. Examine your abilities and opportunities that have aided in your development.
Acknowledge friends and mentors who have supported you during your journey. Changing your attention from what you lack to what you do have might help you feel more satisfied and fulfilled.
Seek support
Asking friends, mentors, or a trusted confidant for help is never a bad idea when dealing with feelings of jealousy. Speaking with someone who understands how you feel might give you a perspective and a sense
of validation.
Nurture a support system of people who will cheer you on while you pursue your goals and who will also be pleased with whatever minor accomplishment you make.
Practice self-compassion
If you are feeling envious of someone else’s career, treat yourself with kindness. Recognise that feeling jealous is common among people and does not diminish your worth or ability. One excellent method to practise self-compassion is to treat yourself with the same care and consideration that you would give to a friend experiencing a
similar circumstance.
Remind yourself that setbacks are just roadblocks on your path to success. – Maisha Tarannum Iqbal
