Jealousy uncovered: Understanding and transforming the green-eyed emotion

Jealousy is based on the fear of losing what we already have; it is a very strong emotion and it is based on one's identity.

- JOHN MCCONNEL

Jealousy is based on the fear of losing what we already have; it is a very strong emotion and it is based on one's identity. If we base our sense of self on temporary things; position, role, wealth - then there is a constant sense of threat from others surpassing us and unseating us. Therefore, anyone who appears to us to be able to do that, we will be jealous and suspicious of.

Then there is envy. Envy is about wanting something that others have. Our culture actively encourages us to have envy of others - bombarding us with pictures of desirable objects or attractive activities that seek to make us spend to 'keep up' and have the same as others. It is an impossible situation where there is a kind of constant envy and jealousy. Then we look for other solutions to not feeling 'the best', by shopping, drinking, or taking drugs to dull the feeling of inadequacy. All this destroys mental well-being, health, and relationships.