Envious people: Let them hate

Is your neighbor jealous of that new car you worked so hard to buy? Let them.

Is your perpetually single coworker envious of your 20-year marriage? Let them.

Does your friend begrudge you the passion you have toward your hobbies and life itself? So be it.

Let's face it: Not only is it impossible to please everyone, but there will always be someone who will try to put us down for the simple fact that they lack something we have.

Don't pay any attention to them. Rather than satisfying your urge to confront or lash out on this individual, you could try to share your positive vibes. See if your zest for life rubs off on them.

That way, they are more likely to focus on what they already have rather than yearn for what they're missing. Or, they can set and work toward goals rather than harp on what others possess, which is really none of their business.

Now, if you go around boasting of your possessions in person or on Facebook, you may very well be engendering such feelings in these people.

Nobody likes a show-off. There's a lot to be said for humility. As long as you enjoy driving that car, are happy in your marriage, or derive fulfillment from painting or whatever hobby you have, that's all that matters. There's no need to brag.

If they envy you just because, then let them be. That they're unhappy about something doesn't give them the right to try to rain on your parade. They should be happy for you.

Misery may love company, but you want no part of that. Life is too short to be around negative people who hold such grudges.

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