It's not easy feeling green (with envy)

Feeling a little more green than usual lately? Not surprising, says Patrick Wanis, a communication expert and life coach in L.A.: “When the economy struggles, jealousy spreads like a disease.” But the diagnosis isn’t dire: “We simply need to learn to respond better to it.” Consider these situations:

Your co-worker makes more than you.

Don’t allow this news to leave you feeling powerless. Instead, “respond in a solution-oriented manner,” Wanis says. “This kind of news can often trigger creativity and focus about what you truly want to be — and maybe that is at a different workplace.”

A friend's daughter does great in school; yours is floundering.

When you’re calm, talk it over with your friend. Use the discussion as an opportunity to receive empathy and encouragement. Try something like: “I confess that I’m feeling jealous that your daughter is doing so well, while mine is not. I’m not sure what to do to help her. Any advice?”

Your sister loses weight; you can't.

“Accept your feelings, but figure out how long you can allow yourself to feel jealous and sorry for yourself,” Wanis says. If you want to replicate your sister’s success, remind yourself: If she can do it, then you can do it!