Is it weird to pretend to be happy for someone's success when you feel jealous?

It's a common human experience to feel a pang of jealousy even when you genuinely care about someone. Putting on a brave face and celebrating their win, despite your internal conflict, shows a desire to be supportive. Many people find themselves in this exact situation, managing complex emotions while still wanting to show up for their friends or colleagues.

Research from the University of California suggests that nearly 80% of adults admit to experiencing jealousy towards a friend or family member at some point in their lives.

See other perspectives

<h1>Am I the only one who pretends to be happy for someone's success, but secretly feels jealous?</h1>

Am I the Only One?

<h1>Does everyone pretend to be happy for someone's success?</h1>

Does Everyone?

Is it normal to pretend to be happy for someone's success when you feel jealous?

Is It Normal?

Why do I pretend to be happy for someone's success when I feel jealous?

Why Do I?

Real stories from the community

A really, really dumb impulse that I can’t undo now, and it’s just sitting there, out in the open, for anyone to see. …

jealousy hiding

I still remember the way my smile stretched for Mark when he got that scholarship, the one to State for track. …

jealousy hiding

What I didn't verbalize, of course, was the pervasive sense of internal discord. …

jealousy hiding

I just sent Mark the nicest email, congrats on winning the firm's design thing, and all I can think about is how my plans were so much better, like WAY more original, and it just feels so stupid to… …

jealousy hiding

Like my car is ancient, practically a relic, and I'm still trying to figure out how to make ends meet with my art, and I guess I just felt this huge pang, like I've maybe missed something really… …

jealousy hiding

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do I feel jealous of a friend's good news?▾
Jealousy often stems from comparing your own situation to someone else's, or feeling like their success highlights something you desire but haven't achieved yet. It's a natural, if uncomfortable, response to perceived disparities.
How can I genuinely feel happier for others?▾
Focusing on your own progress and celebrating small personal victories can help reduce comparison. Practicing gratitude for what you have and remembering that someone else's success doesn't diminish your own can also shift your perspective over time.
Is it bad to hide my jealousy from a friend?▾
Choosing not to openly express jealousy can be a way to protect your friendship and avoid making their success about your feelings. It doesn't mean your feelings are 'bad,' but rather that you're managing them thoughtfully in social situations.

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