Jealousy is a complex emotion that can arise from a combination of psychological, social, and environmental factors. When people experience jealousy at others' success, while they perceive themselves as having little going on in their own lives, there are several psychological reasons that might contribute to this phenomenon:
Social Comparison Theory: People have a natural tendency to compare themselves with others as a way to evaluate their own abilities and self-worth. When they see friends or acquaintances achieving success, it can trigger feelings of inadequacy or inferiority, leading to jealousy. This is especially true if they perceive their own accomplishments as falling short in comparison.
Self-Esteem and Identity: Individuals with low self-esteem or a fragile sense of self might be more prone to jealousy. Their own lack of personal fulfillment could lead them to feel threatened or envious of others' achievements, as it can highlight their own perceived deficiencies or shortcomings.
Fear of Missing Out (FOMO): The fear of missing out on opportunities or experiences that others are having can also fuel jealousy. When someone feels stuck or stagnant in their own life, witnessing others' success can intensify their desire for similar achievements and lead to feelings of jealousy.
Unmet Expectations and Goals: If people have unfulfilled ambitions or unrealized dreams, seeing others attain success in areas they desire can be a painful reminder of their own unmet goals. This dissonance between their aspirations and reality can amplify feelings of jealousy.
Perceived Injustice or Unfairness: Some individuals may view their own lack of success as unjust, especially if they believe they have worked hard but haven't seen the same level of recognition or achievements as others. This perceived injustice can breed jealousy and resentment.
Lack of Empathy and Perspective-Taking: Jealousy can also be related to a lack of empathy and difficulty in perspective-taking. If someone struggles to see the world from others' viewpoints, they may have difficulty genuinely celebrating their friends' successes and instead focus on their own unmet needs.
Cultural and Societal Influences: Societal norms and cultural values can shape how people perceive success and failure. In highly competitive environments or societies that place a strong emphasis on individual achievement, jealousy may be more prevalent.
It's important to note that jealousy is a normal emotion, and experiencing it occasionally doesn't make someone a bad person. However, if jealousy becomes a persistent and overwhelming feeling that negatively impacts relationships or well-being, it might be helpful for the individual to explore the underlying causes and consider seeking support from friends, family, or a mental health professional to work through these emotions constructively. Learning to cultivate a sense of contentment and gratitude for one's own journey and achievements can also contribute to reducing jealousy and increasing happiness for others' success.