Jealousy, how to stop it... help?
Well, let's put it this way. I have some jealousy issues, even though when looking my situation logically I know I should not. Not to talk highly of myself, but I know I am very intelligent person. I am also a very analytical person. However, when this feeling of jealousy rears it's head I cannot seem to allow logic and reason to work as it should. I don't enjoy this feeling, it feels as if I am trapped in a endless series of negative thoughts.
It stems from a previous relationship I was in, I feel now as if I am using it as a defensive mechanism to make sure I do not get hurt as I once did, by pushing away the one I love. I have no reason to think she will ever betray me, but I find myself being jealous. She has a lot of male friends, which I was well of aware of before we got involved. Additionally, she is very social just as I am. However, these trigger these thoughts. We are very close, have been together quite awhile, and have spoken very seriously about marriage.
I don't want to get into the great detail that I can, but I am just looking for some general advice on how to stop this. Maybe some success stories. I am trying a reflective journal approach as of right now, and have talked to her about it as well. I don't want to be this person, I hate when I feel this way, I feel as if I am "that guy." I know, just as in any problem solving situation, that recognition of the problem is the first step.
I am yet to have any success with what I have attempted. Thanks in advance for any responses!