WHY YOU SHOULD BE HAPPY FOR OTHERS

I’ve been meaning to make a case for celebrating the successes of others for a while now and finally gathered my thoughts together to hopefully get the conversation going as to why you should be happy for others. One thing I’m well aware of that can hinder people in rejoicing in the blessings of others is jealousy. Something we’re all susceptible to as humans, but if not curbed can breath disdain and negativity. I’ve since come to realise that jealousy is a feeling born out of ignorance. And I’ll tell you why. To be jealous means to harbour a feeling of envy based on the perceived achievements of others. Meaning the feeling has come about because you wish such achievements upon yourself instead. To an extent, you wish you were them in this instance of advantage. I’m here to tell you “NEVER EVER wish you were someone else”. No matter their level of perceived success and advantage. I’m 33 going on 34 next month and I can tell you based on my experience in dealing with people, everyone has life problems despite their successes. So wishing to be someone inherently means wishing their problems upon yourself too. Their personal struggles (whatever that may be) formed part of their journey to success. Struggles you might not be able to cope with if the case were reversed.

I can’t tell you the harrowing experiences my close friends and family have been through, some of which I’ve been privy to witness and know for sure I would never wish upon my enemies let alone myself. But in the same breath, they have risen above their struggles and continue to do so, sometimes being met with what others might perceive as successes in life. And that to me is worth celebrating as they are deserving of it and and so much more in spite of their struggles. Having this point of view puts things into perspective when examining the successes of others. You can admire their success without wishing you were them. Borrow a leaf or two from their success as you see fit and take an introspective approach in applying it to your circumstances.

Another thing to take into consideration is time. Just like the seasons come and go, your time will eventually come. It might be the time for someone else to succeed at something, but next time it could be you. And when your time comes you’ll hopefully bask in the feeling of joy and content it brings with it. So much so you can only hope others get an opportunity to experience such wonderful feelings too.

A year ago I was given the opportunity to be a Pandora UK ambassador. A brand I’ve loved for many many years. I remember when I first arrived in the UK circa twelve years ago, I couldn’t even dream of wearing Pandora at the time as I needed every penny I had for my rent, bills, sustenance and travel. And here I was being offered such an opportunity to represent the brand in my own fashion. I had the opportunity to travel and create new life experiences not to mention the steady income that came alongside it. All of which I’m very grateful for. And now my ambassadorship it’s nearing its end, I can only hope the next person in line benefits as much I have from this opportunity as it is now clearly their time to fill in the role as I move on to other things while still holding space for gratitude.

One more reason why you should be happy for others is that their success serves as a window of hope into the possibilities of what could be, given their achievements. Instead of viewing their success as a threat, see it instead as an avenue for inspiration. If they can achieve their dreams in all their human form, then chances are you too can achieve your dreams if you actively work on them. And when you eventually succeed, remember to also pave the way for others to come along and succeed too as it can get very lonely at the top. The legacy you leave, should continue to be one that affords others the same opportunities in life that you have been afforded or accorded as the case may be, especially when doing so costs you nothing.

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