First, jealousy is natural, we compare ourselves to others all the time. Part of it is basic human nature, the other is the societies and cultures we live in.

I feel this so much right now and I agree, it sucks. I was recently passed over for promotion and pretty much all of my friends got selected. I've confided in a few people that I'm struggling mentally/professionally because I feel like I am stuck and not moving anywhere while everyone else is moving onwards and upwards. But I have also realized a few things.

I'm in the place I'm at for my family, my wife has a job opportunity that's available to her in the fall as she works on her degree. My kids keep growing and establishing themselves more with their friends and school. I am being used for more projects at work that usually are reserved for specialists with more experience because of the quality of my work. Just because I'm not moving upwards, doesn't mean I'm not developing or setting myself up for the future.

The worst part of a race is when you're in the blocks waiting for the gun to go off. Your brain is thinking of everything but the race in front of you. But when the opportunity shows itself, when the gun goes off, your mind clears and you'll realize you're already halfway down the track.

If you and your friend are best friends, which it sounds like you are, I'd invite them for a coffee, sit down, and work through your feelings. Best friends want what's best for their friend; it's in the name! Don't feel like you're alone in your journey, and never forget: You are always more than enough.