They say you should be flattered when people are jealous of you. Really?
You know you’re an amazing person, and you also know that others know how amazing you are, but what do you do when mere admiration crosses over the line into jealousy? There are many challenges we face in our relations friendships, especially in friendship. There are many challenges like betrayal, conflict, argument, and even jealousy. A jealous friend creates unnecessary drama and also negatively affects our lives. Jealousy can break even the strongest bonds of friendships and if you avoid acknowledging it, you might lose your friendship as well. However, addressing and getting over a friend’s jealousy can be difficult as it is veiled under layers of denial and hostility.
Let’s understand jealousy
You got excellent remarks from your teacher, or your romance has just begun, or you’ve attained the physique you wanted. Your first reaction will be to share it with people you love the most, especially your family and friends. And when you do that, instead of feeling happy for you, your any particular friend downplays your happiness and achievement and considers it something anyone can do. Consequently, your happiness turns into sorrow and you feel hurt and confused about their behaviour. That is jealousy.
How to deal with a jealous friend
Don’t ignore it
If you don’t pay attention to this matter, things will only get worse, as it will increase the jealousy and displeasure among you two.
Talk it out but gently
Honest communication fixes almost everything. Speak to your friend about how they feel and be patient to what they are saying. Don’t get upset or angry if they criticize you.
Be empathetic
Think about what they might be feeling towards you. How you would like to be confronted if they were you. Maybe you are getting too excited about your achievement and rubbing it in their face.
Give them some time
Once you’ve had a proper conversation with your friend, take a break and let it all get in your head one at a time. Give them some space and don’t push them into thinking good about you or change their perspective immediately.
Give them attention
Curing a jealous person requires plenty of time and attention. You have to surround them with positivity to get rid of the negativity. Remember that jealousy has its roots in low self-confidence and insecurity.
Decide if you still want to be friends
Dealing with a jealous friend can be difficult. And even after all the above-mentioned steps, your friend doesn’t seem to change, it’s time for you to move on as this friendship will turn into a toxic one.
Undeniably, jealousy is a human emotion too, but there are ways to deal with it. You just have to figure out how