"Our envy always lasts longer than the happiness of those we envy"
- Heraclitus
About this Quote
This quote by Heraclitus speaks to the human tendency to be jealous of others. When we see someone else attaining something we desire, we might feel a pang of envy. This envy can last a lot longer than the joy of the person we are jealous of. This is due to the fact that envy is a negative feeling that can stick around in our minds and hearts. It can be difficult to get rid of the feeling of envy, even when the individual we are jealous of has actually moved on to something else.
Envy can be a damaging feeling, as it can lead to feelings of resentment and bitterness. It can likewise result in an absence of motivation, as we may feel that our own efforts are futile in contrast to the success of the person we are jealous of.
The best method to combat envy is to focus on our own goals and achievements. We must aim to be content with our own successes, and to be happy for the successes of others. In this manner, we can avoid the unfavorable feelings connected with envy, and rather focus on our own growth and progress.
"The man who makes everything that leads to happiness depends upon himself, and not upon other men, has adopted the very best plan for living happily. This is the man of moderation, the man of manly character and of wisdom"