There’s a video commercial featuring Rafael Nadal that beautifully depicts the chain of envy in everyday life. It opens with a man sitting at a terrace, envying the tennis legend as he plays golf on holiday. The narrative continues: a bald man envies the flowing locks of another, a girl on a bus gazes longingly at a cyclist, and a busy professional on a phone call admires the simplicity of a runner’s life. Finally, we circle back to Nadal himself, who wishes he could be like the man on the terrace—seated quietly, savoring life. Ironically, Nadal, a global star, must contend with fans eager to snap photos of him at that very terrace. In the end, Nadal comments, "Qué buena vida," which means, "What a good life."

This thought-provoking commercial captures a universal truth: we often envy others without realizing that our own lives might be the envy of someone else. It’s common to overlook the blessings we have, being blinded by what we perceive as desirable in others’ lives. Yet, even if we had what they possess, there’s no guarantee it would bring the happiness we seek. Their definition of joy may not align with our own.

Instead, finding happiness within yourself is key. When envy strikes, take it as a moment to reflect: Is this something you’ve experienced or achieved in your own life? Can you find contentment in your current circumstances? Often, an enviable situation is a reminder of the good things you already have—or had—and a chance to be grateful.

True happiness comes not from striving to replicate someone else’s life but from realizing the beauty in your own. So next time envy whispers in your ear, pause and ask yourself: What’s already good in my life?