Dealing With Jealousy Without Damaging Your Relationship

Jealousy can easily make the person feel uncomfortable and consumed. However, it is a very common and normal emotion. We are very likely to feel jealous when, for instance, our friends have something that we want, somebody is in a relationship that we would like to have, or when we believe our romantic partners are interested in someone else. It usually happens when we are feeling insecure about what we have, not getting what we want, or worrying about not fulfilling our wishes. Some people experience it more than others, while others experience it to the extent that it destroys their relationships. Jealousy needs to be dealt with. Otherwise, it can control the way we relate to others, how we think about our relationships, and how we function.

Start By Recognizing The Impacts Jealousy Has On One’s Life

As a starting point, one needs to recognize that jealousy is impacting their life. Usually, this happens when you struggle to interact with people who have things you don’t or to move forward because you are still obsessed with your ex’s new relationship. In this case, jealousy results in unhappiness and insecurity, and once you become aware of what’s going on, you’ll be able to start the process of change. Moreover, you need to check whether the things you want that others have truly make you happy and whether getting what you think you want makes you happy. It is important to identify what is preventing you from obtaining what would make you happy. Rather than feeling jealous because of wanting something that you don’t have and others have, one needs to value and focus on their growth and future.

Things To Keep In Mind That Can Be Reassuring If Necessary

It could be reassuring to remember that not having what you know now does not mean you’ll never have what they have and what you want. Keeping in mind that our current state is not necessarily a prediction of the future helps. This indicates that we’re not locked into the life we have now, and the happiness of others can be seen as evidence that you, too, can get what you want. This is an example of reframing, which can give you hope for the future.

If There’s Jealousy Around, Do Something Before It’s Too Late

Jealousy needs to be acknowledged, and talking openly about it is another way of dealing with it. After reflecting, you can share with your partner while being truthful about how you feel and what discomforts you. A relationship journal might help by serving as a safe place to vent and describe how our jealousy feels emotionally. This journal could be an opportunity to explore our insecurities rather than as a judge of how we feel.

How The Past Can Influence The Future

Healing our past wounds also helps us deal with jealousy without damaging our relationship. This enables us to trust our partner more without having to control every aspect of our relationship. Finally, if you’re struggling to deal with jealousy, don’t hesitate to talk to a therapist who will respond with empathy. Couples therapy sessions can help you understand your partner more and possibly replace your negative thoughts with more realistic ones.

References

Rahman, I. (2002). How to Deal with Jealousy in a Relationship: 15 Tips. Retrieved from https://www.psychologytoday.com/intl/blog/from-trial-to-triumph/202408/how-to-prevent-jealousy-from-destroying-your-relationships