In today’s digital age, social media has become an integral part of our lives, shaping our thoughts, aspirations, and even our emotions. Incessantly measuring ourselves against others on social networking platforms has often been a factor leading to depression, eating disorders and decreased general wellbeing. Apart from leading to serious mental health disorders, we have been told that comparison brings out the worst in ourselves. We become hateful and envious. But here is something you may not have heard before- envy can actually be beneficial. Understanding the difference between these two types of envy and their role in the realm of social media is crucial for maintaining a healthy online presence and mental well-being.
Malicious envy causes us to be everything we usually associate envy with- resentful and belligerent. Social media acts as a catalyst for malicious envy as it provides a constant stream of curated and idealized lifestyles, often leading to feelings of inadequacy and comparison. Users may become obsessed with others’ accomplishments, material possessions, or relationships, which can result in negative self-perception and a diminished sense of self-worth. This toxic cycle may push individuals to engage in cyberbullying, spreading rumors, or engaging in online harassment to compensate for their own perceived deficiencies.
On the other hand, benign envy is a less harmful variant of envy that can serve as a motivational force for self-improvement and personal growth. When individuals experience benign envy, they admire others’ achievements and aspire to attain similar goals. Social media platforms can provide inspiration and act as a source of motivation, encouraging users to set higher standards for themselves and strive towards self-improvement. Benign envy can foster healthy competition and promote positive interactions as individuals support and learn from one another.
Social media platforms play a significant role in the amplification of both malicious and benign envy. The constant exposure to carefully curated content creates an environment of comparison, where users often highlight their achievements, travel experiences, relationships, and material possessions. This constant stream of perfected content can trigger feelings of inadequacy and fuel malicious envy. However, social media can also be a source of inspiration, with users sharing success stories, knowledge, and opportunities that can fuel benign envy.
To maintain a healthy relationship with social media and minimize the negative effects of envy, it is important to adopt a mindful approach. Firstly, recognizing the difference between malicious and benign envy allows individuals to acknowledge and manage their emotions appropriately. Setting realistic expectations, practicing gratitude, and focusing on personal growth rather than comparisons can help mitigate the negative impact of envy. Additionally, curating a positive online environment by supporting others and fostering genuine connections can create a more uplifting social media experience.
Envy is a complex emotion, and its manifestation on social media can have both positive and negative consequences. By understanding the difference between malicious and benign envy individuals can navigate social media in a way that promotes personal growth, positivity, and healthy online interactions. Remember, social media should serve as a tool for inspiration and connection, not as a source of comparison and resentment.
By Aashna Patel