Am I the only one who downplays their achievements to avoid envy?
Many people find themselves minimizing their successes, not out of false modesty, but from a genuine concern about how others might react. This behavior often stems from past experiences where sharing good news led to awkwardness, resentment, or a shift in relationships. It's a common strategy to maintain social harmony, even if it means dimming your own light a little.
Research from the University of California, Berkeley, suggests that social comparison, a common trigger for envy, is a pervasive human tendency, influencing how individuals perceive their own and othe
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why do people get jealous of others' successes?▾
Jealousy often arises from feelings of inadequacy or a perception of unfairness. When someone else succeeds, it can trigger comparisons and highlight what a person feels they lack, leading to envy rather than shared joy.
How can I share good news without causing resentment?▾
Consider the audience and context. Sometimes, sharing successes with those closest to you who genuinely celebrate your wins is best. With others, a more understated approach or focusing on the effort rather than just the outcome can be helpful.
Is it bad to hide your achievements sometimes?▾
It's not inherently 'bad,' but consistently hiding your achievements can prevent you from fully appreciating your own hard work and receiving deserved recognition. Over time, it might also lead to feelings of being undervalued or unfulfilled.
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