I write about all sorts of topics on my blog. Envy is a complex emotion that can serve as both a motivator and a destroyer. It can drive us to push beyond our limits and achieve great things, yet if not managed properly and if left unchecked, it can lead us down a path of resentment and negativity.

Envy is the 'tax you pay'

There's a well know saying "envy is the tax you pay on success" this saying holds true: when you achieve success, you inevitably become the target of others' envy. Just as taxes are an inevitable consequence of earning income, envy is an unavoidable consequence of being successful.

Here’s a breakdown of why:

Success Attracts Attention

The nature of being successful means you're likely to stand out. This attention can lead to admiration, but it may also lead to jealousy.

A Human Reaction

It's a common human reaction to feel envious of those who have achieved something significant, especially if others perceive it as something they desire for themselves, or it's something they may struggle to attain.

Success can equal envy

Success can equal envy. I say can because not everyone is envious or jealous. But for those who are, it may manifest as negative comments, unfounded criticisms, strained relationships, or in the form of gaslighting (being ignored). Like paying taxes is part of earning an income, dealing with envy can be part of achieving success. The cost of success for many is unavoidable.

We should genuinely feel happy for others

There is another perspective. Instead, of feeling envious, or jealous, we should genuinely feel happy for others because it's the right thing to do. If the roles were reversed, we would hope for others to be happy for us. From a broader view, when we celebrate the success of others, the universe often reciprocates by opening doors for our own achievements. On the other hand, envy and jealousy only leads to negativity and destruction in the long run. No good ever come from harbouring these feelings.