Jealousy refers to perceptions and feelings of insecurity, fear or concern over a relative lack of possession or safety. Jealous individuals desire another person’s or entity’s belongings. Jealousy is synonymous with envy, covetousness, zeal and possessiveness. Strong emotions (responses) associated with jealousy include anger, resentment, helplessness, fear of loss, suspicion, neuroticism, sadness, distrust, obsession, etc.* While jealously is commonly experienced between humans in or out of a relationship, individuals may become jealous towards entities as well (i.e., businesses, groups, municipalities, countries, etc.). Jealous individuals desire to own that which is not theirs. Jealousy or envy in the workplace damages relationships.* Coworkers or team members withdraw and isolate from each other due to concealed or repressed envy. Since businesses require some level of collaboration, jealousy will negatively impact job performance and justify reasons for termination. The opposite of jealousy is admiration, contentment, satisfaction, comparison, confidence, pride and trust.* Individuals who exhibit admiration towards others’ accomplishments facilitate a safe, trusting work environment.
Individuals may navigate jealousy in the workplace by firstly acknowledging or admitting its existence - not avoiding or disregarding the emotion - which diminishes negative impact. Discussing feelings of jealousy also reduces negative associated behaviors or emotions. Understanding sources of jealousy helps overcome jealousy, especially when the source of jealousy is irrelevant or unattainable at the present time.* For example, understanding that a coworker awarded for 15 years of service simply has 12 more years of employment than peers. Individuals dealing with others who are struggling with jealousy may foster and communicate a work environment of admiration, celebration and support for peer achievements and success.
References
1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jealousy
