How to Get Over Jealousy

How to Get Over Jealousy
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Jealousy is a common feeling for many people, and at some point in life it is likely you have experienced what it feels like to be jealous. Jealousy can occur in romantic relationships, friendships, at work, in school and even among family members. Removing jealousy from your life can lead to improved relationships and an improved mental state. In order to get over jealousy you will need to be willing to change your behaviors and explore where your jealousy comes from.

Step 1

Recognize your emotions and when you get jealous. In order to get over jealousy you need to understand what triggers your jealousy. Consider the people involved, how often the jealousy occurs, the environment, the interactions between the people involved and your relationships to these people.

Step 2

Consider how jealousy has impacted you in the past. By understanding the damaging effects jealousy has had in your past relationships you can help to deter yourself from overreacting in the future to jealousy. Make a list of arguments, work troubles and relationships problems that have been a result of your jealousy.

Step 3

Pay attention to reality instead of how your jealousy sees events happening. According to Ask Men, this method helps you to understand reality versus fiction and can prevent a lot of problems that jealousy causes. When jealousy arises your perception of events can spin out of control. Use self-talk to remind yourself of what is really happening instead of what you perceive to be happening.

Step 4

Address the jealousy you feel in a rational manner with the people involved. By talking with your significant other, friend, family member or coworker you can vent about your jealousy and they can help you to understand why they behave in a certain way. Addressing the problem can clear up any misconceptions and can also convey your feelings to those involved.

Step 5

Remember that jealousy is a natural human emotion. Jealousy occurs whether you want it to or not, so recognizing when your jealousy is out of control is key. If your jealousy causes you to become verbally or physically aggressive, consult a behavioral health professional.

References

Article reviewed by DeborahO Last updated on: Aug 24, 2010

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