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In this episode of The Codependent Doctor, I delve into the complex emotions of jealousy and envy—two feelings that many of us grapple with but often struggle to understand. As we explore these emotions, I aim to shed light on how they can impact our self-worth and relationships, particularly in the context of codependency.
I begin by discussing the common experience of feeling jealous or envious, whether it’s triggered by a friend’s engagement or someone’s apparent confidence. These emotions, while natural, can lead to feelings of insecurity, bitterness, and even resentment if left unchecked. I emphasize that jealousy and envy are not inherently bad; rather, they serve as signals that reveal our fears and values.
To clarify the distinction between the two, I explain that jealousy is the fear of losing something we already possess, while envy is the desire for something someone else has. I provide relatable examples to illustrate how these emotions manifest in our lives, such as feeling threatened when a partner spends time with someone attractive (jealousy) or longing for a friend’s relationship (envy).
Throughout the episode, I highlight how these feelings can become particularly overwhelming in codependent relationships, where self-worth is often tied to external validation. I discuss various ways jealousy can manifest, including the fear of being replaced, the need for constant reassurance, controlling behaviors, and feelings of rejection over minor actions.
I also address how envy can show up in our lives, often leading to comparisons that diminish our self-esteem. I encourage listeners to shift their mindset from comparison to inspiration, reminding them that everyone has their own unique journey.
To help manage these emotions, I share practical strategies for shifting our perspectives. This includes recognizing and naming our feelings, practicing gratitude, challenging negative thoughts, and strengthening our sense of self. I emphasize that healing from jealousy and envy is a process, and while we may still experience these emotions, they don’t have to control our lives.
As we wrap up the episode, I invite listeners to reflect on their own e
Send me a message
This episode includes a paid partnership with BetterHelp. Click this link, betterhelp.com/drdowney, to get 10% off your first month.
📗 My Books: Enough as I Am (codependency recovery) Enough as I Grow (365 day guide journal). Affiliate disclosure: I am an affiliate parner with Amazon and therefore receive a commission at no cost to you.
📘 Great Books on Codependency
📙My Favorite books:
Daring Greatly by Brenee Brown, It Begins With You by Jillian Turecki, Becoming Bulletproof by Evy Poumpouras, The Let Them Theory by Mel Robbins, Real Self-Care by Pooja Lakshmin.
Affiliate disclosure: I am an affiliate parner with Amazon and therefore receive a commission at no cost to you.
📰 Sign up for my Newsletter
🛜 My Website DrAngelaDowney
Email: [email protected]
Social Media links: Here
🎵 Music: Touching The Air by Graceful Movement
By Dr. Angela Downey5
55 ratings
In this episode of The Codependent Doctor, I delve into the complex emotions of jealousy and envy—two feelings that many of us grapple with but often struggle to understand. As we explore these emotions, I aim to shed light on how they can impact our self-worth and relationships, particularly in the context of codependency.
I begin by discussing the common experience of feeling jealous or envious, whether it’s triggered by a friend’s engagement or someone’s apparent confidence. These emotions, while natural, can lead to feelings of insecurity, bitterness, and even resentment if left unchecked. I emphasize that jealousy and envy are not inherently bad; rather, they serve as signals that reveal our fears and values.
To clarify the distinction between the two, I explain that jealousy is the fear of losing something we already possess, while envy is the desire for something someone else has. I provide relatable examples to illustrate how these emotions manifest in our lives, such as feeling threatened when a partner spends time with someone attractive (jealousy) or longing for a friend’s relationship (envy).
Throughout the episode, I highlight how these feelings can become particularly overwhelming in codependent relationships, where self-worth is often tied to external validation. I discuss various ways jealousy can manifest, including the fear of being replaced, the need for constant reassurance, controlling behaviors, and feelings of rejection over minor actions.
I also address how envy can show up in our lives, often leading to comparisons that diminish our self-esteem. I encourage listeners to shift their mindset from comparison to inspiration, reminding them that everyone has their own unique journey.
To help manage these emotions, I share practical strategies for shifting our perspectives. This includes recognizing and naming our feelings, practicing gratitude, challenging negative thoughts, and strengthening our sense of self. I emphasize that healing from jealousy and envy is a process, and while we may still experience these emotions, they don’t have to control our lives.
As we wrap up the episode, I invite listeners to reflect on their own e
Send me a message
This episode includes a paid partnership with BetterHelp. Click this link, betterhelp.com/drdowney, to get 10% off your first month.
📗 My Books: Enough as I Am (codependency recovery) Enough as I Grow (365 day guide journal). Affiliate disclosure: I am an affiliate parner with Amazon and therefore receive a commission at no cost to you.
📘 Great Books on Codependency
📙My Favorite books:
Daring Greatly by Brenee Brown, It Begins With You by Jillian Turecki, Becoming Bulletproof by Evy Poumpouras, The Let Them Theory by Mel Robbins, Real Self-Care by Pooja Lakshmin.
Affiliate disclosure: I am an affiliate parner with Amazon and therefore receive a commission at no cost to you.
📰 Sign up for my Newsletter
🛜 My Website DrAngelaDowney
Email: [email protected]
Social Media links: Here
🎵 Music: Touching The Air by Graceful Movement

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