Does Jealousy Ever Work For You?
6 things jealousy brought me
Jealousy isn’t much talked about in my everyday life. I hear people say they are sad, happy, angry, frustrated, but it’s not often I hear the emotion of jealousy acknowledged. It’s a big one- powerful in its strength and impenitent with its discomfort, it’s easily an emotion we ignore, deny, dislike. But I guess it’s something that just is. It just is. What if it guided decisions or kickstarted dreams? Maybe it could occasionally prod an action or clarify a personal goal? Here are 6 things jealousy brought me:
Jealous that some people have therapists? Got one.
Jealous that some people exercise at 8am on weekday mornings? (Don’t they need to work?) Made weekly time at lunch to exercise.
Jealous that inter-generational wealth has made life nicer than any regular income can do? Studied more of history.
Jealous of people who have energy, the don’t-have-to-conserve-it type energy? I appreciate what I have when I have it.
Jealous of people who are creative for a living? Started a tiny and consistent public writing project.
Jealous of people with a staircase gallery wall? The jealousy here exists beyond aesthetic, reaching far into needs of safety and stability and space to preserve and share happy memories. I printed my dang photos.
Can you name a time jealousy gave you something other than unadulterated discomfort? If you’re up for sharing, I’d love to hear.
Oof, so good.