Today’s big idea is that something I’ve been hearing about from different people is feeling jealous of other people’s vacations. I think we’re all longing to get away from it all, but it’s not exactly easy to do. Not only do you need to take time off work, but because so many of us are having this same longing–and perhaps more strongly than in other summers thanks to the year we’ve just had–airline ticket prices are up, and I don’t know if you’ve checked airbnb or VRBO lately, but it feels like most things are booked solid. Or maybe you’re just not comfortable with the idea of travel yet.
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So there may just be a number of very good reasons why you’re staying put
But when you’re on Facebook and seeing photos of people on the Cape or in Hawaii, or at the lake, you might be feeling that pang of, ugh! I want that too!!
Or maybe you even have thoughts like, those jerks! How are they doing that?!
Maybe you’ve got judgments around people who are traveling now due to Covid. Or maybe you’re jealous they’ve got the time and money to spend on a true vacation. Maybe you feel like they’re showing off by posting about it on Facebook. Or all of the above.
Anytime you’re feeling jealous or envious or bummed out by someone else’s positive developments, it’s a really clear indicator that there’s something about that thing that you would like to have. You may not have admitted to yourself that you would like this thing, however. So it’s easier to judge the person who’s doing it, than to admit that you’d really like to do it, too.
Here’s the thing
Not only is judging people a source of disconnection, but also, judging people who are doing something or have something you want can trick your brain into thinking that that thing isn’t OK for you to have. And so you may be unconsciously steering yourself away from being able to have or do that very thing that you want.
You know, like, those jerks are on vacation, and I’m not a jerk, so I’m gonna stay right here and show just how non-jerky I am.
So if you’re jealous of other people’s vacations for whatever reason, here’s what you want to do.
Congratulate these people. Celebrate them, even. And wish them well. Even if it’s only in your mind. Or maybe a social media comment. Just say, Looks wonderful, enjoy! Because that turns your attention away from judgment, and toward being receptive to opportunities to do the same thing for yourself.
After you’ve given those vacationers some props, try to fulfill that desire to take time off and travel the extent that you can. You may not be able to get to Europe or tour the national parks this summer, but you can take a day trip and give yourself the experience of getting out of your environment. That might feel so good that you open up a savings account to tuck away money for next summer, or buy a travel guide, or start talking about the idea with friends and family and pulling together your own getaway.
Daily Tiny Assignment
SO that’s your tiny assignment–wish someone who’s doing something you’re jealous of well. I think you’ll be surprised to see how quickly it shifts your energy away from envy and toward being open to possibility.
