Envy or Aspiration

In recent weeks a “grassroots” protest effort on Wall Street has been loudly and angrily denouncing the evils of capitalism. It isn’t always entirely clear what those gathered there are demanding but as a casual observer it seems that much of what they are complaining about is driven by envy. By definition, envy is a resentful emotion that "occurs when a person lacks another's (perceived) superior quality, achievement, or possession and either desires it or wishes that the other lacked it." It’s easy to see why envy often causes unhappiness. How can one be happy if his neighbor or some unnamed Wall Street banker has more money or possessions?

The capitalist system is unique in that it offers those who aspire to wealth or status the opportunity to achieve it by assuming risk and working exceptionally hard. Just ask the millions of entrepreneurs who pursue their dreams every day and are the primary engines that drive our economy. While some of them may have been envious of their competition, instead of complaining about their fate they aspired to accomplish even more. 

When leaders harbor envy there is often a victim mentality that accompanies such thinking. The focus becomes “How can I tear that other person down?” not “What must I aspire to so I can achieve similar or greater success?” Envy blinds leaders of the blessings, qualities, talents, and opportunities already present. Perhaps that is why so many of those protesting seem oblivious to how they can change their plight. By blaming others they don’t need to take personal responsibility for improving their lot in life.

Over the years I have been motivated by personal aspirations, not by envying what others have achieved. Many of my mentors and colleagues would echo this sentiment. Each of us has God-given talents that we are responsible to nourish and cultivate. No amount of complaining about how hard it is or how unfair the system can be should keep us from pressing forward.

Aspirations encourage positive thinking while envy breeds more negative thoughts. I hope the Wall Street protestors understand how dangerous the place they are wishing for will be. Without aspirations to feed ones soul the banality they seek will cripple the human spirit. Envy will have succeeded in its quest to “wish that others lacked what we also lack” but in its wake will be a far less productive and innovative society. I trust we can aspire to something greater than that.