How envy can be your greatest teacher | Shanel Sania

Core Argument - Envy is a common human emotion rooted in comparison, driven by both evolutionary instincts and modern social pressures [2][3][4] - Social media exacerbates envy by presenting curated highlights, leading to negative self-perception, with 48% of teens reporting feeling worse about themselves due to social media comparisons [5] - Envy can be a valuable source of information, indicating unrealized desires and potential paths for personal growth [8][9] Psychological Insights - The gap between one's real self and ideal self, widened by social media, fuels envy [6] - Envy often stems from a desire to emulate qualities or achievements seen in others, reflecting personal aspirations [7] - Societal expectations and external pressures can lead individuals to pursue goals that are not genuinely their own, contributing to feelings of envy [10][11][12] Practical Application - When experiencing envy, it's beneficial to reflect on the source of the emotion and identify the underlying desires it reveals [8][9] - Envy should be viewed as data, providing insights into personal aspirations, rather than as a negative emotion to be suppressed [9] - Awareness and understanding of envy can empower individuals to pursue their own authentic goals and live more fulfilling lives [15]