How I deal with it is - I'm definitely qualified to be in the role I am currently in. I make enough to cover my bills right now but I should be earning more. I

How I deal with it is - I'm definitely qualified to be in the role I am currently in. I make enough to cover my bills right now but I should be earning more. I'm going to ask for more, I'll move on if my current position can't pay more within 6 months and there's no sign of that changing (e.g. through promotion) If my bills were covered and a bit extra for savings, fun, rainy day fund, etc? That's how much I should be making. Anything more is a bonus Don't try comparing your salary to someone elses. Maybe they're a better negotiator than you, maybe they have a skillset you don't know about the boss is going to utilize in a year's time in a project being chalked up now. Maybe they have nudie pictures of the hiring manager? Not your concern, you look after you.