The value of a single good tree, by Abayomi Odunowo

In a world bustling with ambition and competition, envy and jealousy often creep into the interactions we have with one another. Whether in personal relationships or workplace dynamics, it’s all too common for individuals to struggle with feelings of inadequacy and to react defensively by trying to undermine others. As the proverb aptly conveys, “don’t try to pull down a growing tree out of envy and jealousy, for its shade may benefit us all tomorrow.” This poignant imagery of a single good tree serves as a reminder of the importance of nurturing growth, both in ourselves and in those around us. In this writeUp, I will explore the profound implications of this metaphor, the perils of envy, and the necessity of fostering a culture of kindness and mutual support.

The Toxicity of Envy. The human experience is laden with comparison. We often measure our success against that of others, leading to feelings of inadequacy and insecurity. When these feelings spiral into envy, they manifest in harmful ways — often directed at those who are simply trying to grow and thrive. Envious thoughts and actions can erode relationships, create discord, and ultimately stifle creativity and collaboration. Imagine a colleague who has just been promoted; instead of celebrating their success, feelings of jealousy may prompt you to undermine their efforts, with words or deeds meant to diminish their accomplishments.

Such behavior is not just damaging to the target; it’s corrosive to the envious individual as well. In trying to pull down someone else, they fail to recognize the value of collaboration and community. The tree that towers above may indeed cast a shadow on their own path, but that shadow also signifies protection and comfort. Every time we let envy dictate our actions, we miss the opportunity to learn from those around us and benefit from their experiences. The real tragedy lies in the loss of potential for shared growth and mutual enhancement.

The Consequences of Undermining Growth. The consequences of pulling down that “growing tree” can be far-reaching. Take, for example, the impact on a work environment. If a team is imbued with a spirit of jealousy and competition, it becomes a breeding ground for toxicity. Individuals who feel threatened are less likely to collaborate, share ideas, or offer support, thereby stifling innovation and progress. This competition can spiral into a culture where only one type of “tree” is allowed to thrive — the one that best fits the narrow definition of success dictated by envy.

Moreover, the urge to bring others down can seep into our personal relationships. Whether it’s the spouse who feels threatened by their partner’s growth, the friend who cannot celebrate another’s achievements, or the neighbor who envies a beautiful garden, the outcomes are largely the same: relationships become strained, trust deteriorates, and isolation sets in. Ultimately, when we turn to jealousy as a reaction, we lose sight of what it means to be a community — and more significantly, we begin to suffocate our own potential.

Cultivating Kindness and Support, So, what can we do instead? The antidote to this envy-laden mentality is simple, yet profound: cultivate kindness and support each other’s growth. Each individual is a unique tree, with their own set of gifts and talents. Instead of viewing someone else’s success as a personal threat, see it as an opportunity for collective enrichment. By offering genuine support and encouragement, we not only foster an uplifting environment for ourselves but also contribute positively to the lives of those around us.

Imagine a community where each person actively seeks to uplift others. Spouses who cheer for each other’s wins, colleagues who celebrate shared successes, friends who encourage and inspire rather than compete — this is the type of environment where everyone flourishes. By nurturing each other’s growth, we enrich our own lives and create a future where we can all thrive, basking in the shade provided by the strong trees among us.

The essence of a single good tree serves as a poignant reminder of the benefits of nurturing growth through kindness and support. Allowing envy and jealousy to dictate our interactions not only harms others but also stunts our own development. Let this be a lesson to each of us: cultivate an atmosphere of encouragement, celebrate the successes of those around you, and recognize that in supporting one another, we create a community where everyone can thrive. Good day and God bless you!

Otunba Abdulfalil Abayomi Odunowo
National Chairman AATSG.
Mobile: +2349053535322
Sunday 22nd September 2024.