While jealousy is a natural feeling that most people will experience in their relationships, it’s important not to let it get out of hand.

Jealousy that is allowed to grow unchecked can lead to controlling and destructive behaviour, which will ultimately damage, or even destroy, a relationship.

Here are five ways you can work on your romantic jealousy:

Own your feelings

Own your jealous feelings. Acknowledging you are jealous opens the door to learning from your feelings, and then getting better.

Denying that you are jealous will only make the problem worse.

Identify the cause

Think deeply about what is causing your jealousy. Jealousy is usually caused by your own low self-esteem and insecurities, rather than anything your partner is doing.

Once you embrace this, you’ll be better equipped to deal with whatever is making you feel insecure and jealous.

Don’t place blame

It’s important you don’t blame your partner for your jealousy, or else you’ll also expect your partner to fix it for you.

This can lead to controlling and manipulative behaviour. Remember, only you can fix your own feelings of insecurity.

Talk about it

If your partner’s behaviour is really bothering you, and you feel that they are not caring about your feelings, discuss it with them.

Don’t demand that they change, but rather try to come to a reasonable compromise where you are both happy and satisfied.

Look to the past

If your jealousy has caused issues in previous relationships, use your past experience to help you make positive changes with your current partner.

Don’t become trapped in a cycle of jealousy which keeps damaging you and your relationships.