Emotions, the entire spectrum of them, are normal. And that goes for the ones that aren't particularly nice too. Anger, jealousy, resentment... They're natural. And it's OK to feel them. It doesn't make you 'less than'. It makes you human.

What is important is what you do with those feelings. OK, you're jealous of your friend right now. That's normal. But what are you doing with that jealousy? Are you learning from it, or are you allowing it to fester into something ugly?

It's SO important to feel your feelings. Even the ugly ones. Acknowledge them, feel them, try to learn from them. And then let them go. But don't ignore them like they don't exist or suppress them, because they're not going to magically disappear.

Your feelings are valid, but they're not always true. Your brain can make you feel like you're worthless, like you haven't achieved anything ever. And while it's OK to acknowledge that feeling and feel it, remember that feelings are also temporary. Allow it to pass.

We often say "feel your feelings". But what does that mean? Sometimes it can be as simple as saying "I'm sad right now" when you're sad, and allowing yourself to actually be sad. Not pretend to be OK or happy, but to just... Be sad. Cry, take a nap, whatever. Be sad. It's OK.

The same thing goes for jealousy. Feel it. Acknowledge it. Say "I'm really jealous right now". Sit with it for a bit and allow yourself to wallow. Maybe for 10 minutes, maybe for a day. Take the time you need, and then let it go. Learn from it and move on.

I think it's really important to be open with your friends about your feelings as well. When something amazing happens for them, it's OK to say "I'm really proud of you and happy for you but I'm going through some things and I need some space. It's 100% me. Love you!"

And I would hope that your friends are kind and compassionate enough to give you the space you need in that moment.