- Penned by Jens Schröder | 14 Min Read
Unchecked envy leading to torment and sometimes, providing the drive to soar uncontrollably - Strife sparked by jealousy: its insidious influence and metamorphosis into sustenance
Feelings play an instrumental role in shaping our thinking and actions, influencing our perspectives, memories, and expectations at every turn. Although we possess some control over the emotions we experience, appraising ourselves to experience positive feelings for instance, they nonetheless wield considerable power over us.
- Psychology
- Envy
Diving into the Depths of Envy
Psychologists argue that envy is a complex emotion with far-reaching effects on our thoughts and behaviors. Typically characterized by an entanglement of admiration, insecurity, resentment, and longing, envy can trigger physical pain within the brain[5]. In this article, we'll explore how envy affects our thought patterns and behaviors, as well as the rare instances when it becomes an inspiring force.
The Psychological Ramifications of Envy
- Crooked Relationships and Behaviors: Envy often warps relationships, fostering bitterness that brings forth behaviors such as sarcasm, social withdrawal, gossip, or subtle sabotage[5]. Envy can also lead individuals to second-guess their capabilities, causing emotional turbulence in even the simplest interactions[5].
- Insecurity and Yearning: Envy can incite feelings of insecurity and desire in those experiencing it. This can manifest as admiration for other people's achievements and possessions, accompanied by a longing to acquire these things or destroy their value for others[5].
- Cognitive Distortions: Envy can lead to excessive rumination on other people's successes, resulting in self-deprecation and negative thoughts regarding their achievements[3].
- Harsh Emotions and Dissatisfaction: Envy has been linked to feelings of bitterness and unhappiness, impairing the development of a positive self-image founded on intrinsic self-worth rather than comparisons with others[2].
When Envy Shines Brighter
Although envy generally breeds negative consequences, it occasionally emerges as a source of inspiration:
- Drive for Self-Improvement: The realization of others' achievements can galvanize us to improve ourselves. Motivated by this recognition, individuals can strive to advance their abilities, skills, and accomplishments[5].
- Self-Reflection and Personal Growth: When acknowledged and skillfully managed, envy can catalyze self-reflection, empowering individuals to focus on their personal growth, rather than merely striving to surpass others[5].
- Healthy Competition: In controlled settings, envy can promote healthy competition by encouraging individuals to push themselves to excel in tandem with others. This friendly rivalry can result in positive personal and social outcomes[5].
In essence, although envy often carries a dark undertone, it can occasionally fuel personal growth and ambition when channeled constructively.
[5] "The neuroscience of envy." (2015, October 7). Retrieved March 2, 2023, from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4572488/[2] "Psychology of Envy: Implications for Therapy." (1993). Retrieved March 2, 2023, from https://www.jstor.org/stable/26788177[3] "The role of envious feelings in social rejection." (2019, July). Retrieved March 2, 2023, from https://rdcu.be/c3AZP
- Jens Schröder delves into the complex psychology of envy, exploring its impact on thoughts and behaviors in a 14-minute read.
- Envy, a multifaceted emotion, can lead to negative consequences such as distorted relationships, insecurity, cognitive distortions, and feelings of bitterness and dissatisfaction.
- However, under certain circumstances, envy can inspire self-improvement, self-reflection, personal growth, and healthy competition.
- The science of psychology offers insights into managing envy for overall health and wellness, as well as mental health.
