LIFE

We love to see our besties smile, and their happiness usually makes us super cheerful. But the switch from joy to jealousy can happen in the blink of an eye.

Maybe it seems like your BFF’s having all the luck lately. The cute lifeguard you’ve both been crushing on just asked her out, and she scored a prize from the contest you both entered. As if that weren’t enough to make you green with envy, she’s also getting ready to go on an island vacay with her family. If you're wishing to be in your bestie’s shoes, here’s how to do away with those jealous feelings. 

Figure out exactly why you’re jealous.
You won’t be able to get to the heart of the matter until you know exactly what it is that’s causing you to feel so jealous. Is it something small that only crosses your mind every now and then? Is it so major that you can’t even look at your BFF without getting upset? Maybe it’s a combination that just gets bigger and bigger with each passing day? Write it down, do some sketching, or make a mental checklist. Being able to recognize your trigger points will help you be more aware of how much of an impact they’re having on your mood. 

Believe that amazing things will come your way.
Your bestie may be on a winning streak, but that definitely doesn’t make you a loser! You might feel like your life’s just okay right now, especially when you compare yourself to her. Instead of focusing on what isn’t happening at this very moment, channel your energy into believing that things are going to start working in your favor, too. Good things really do come to those who wait!

Own your goals.
Of course, the best way to get to those good things is to follow through with the goals you’ve set for yourself. It’s possible that you’re jealous of your bestie because you’re afraid of not being able to achieve your dreams. We’ve all been there. When another person’s dream comes true, yours feels so much more out of reach. Sometimes, it even feels downright impossible! But success is almost always the result of hard work and time. Although her path seems easy, she didn’t get there overnight. Let her luck inspire you to make your own positive strides.

Remember that you win when she wins.
You and your BFF are in this together. The two of you swap secrets, share sweaters, and stand side-by-side through so many situations. When something great happens to her, it’s almost like the same thing is happening to you because you’re so close. This isn’t always the easiest to remember. After all, you’d rather be the one who’s actually spilling about her first kiss than the one listening to the juicy details. However, knowing what’s made you jealous in the past, looking forward to your future, and having confidence in how you’re going to get there will make your bestie’s happiness an unforgettable reason for *your* happiness. 

Do you ever get jealous of your bestie? Why do you think you feel that way?

Photo credit: Normani Kordei.

by Megan Sawey | 3/2/2018