Have you ever wondered why some people are living their dreams, and you sometimes feel that you are far beyond what they are experiencing now? Or do you worry much about how you will make yourself happy without comparing your life with others?
In the world of social media, where almost everyone has something to share on different social media sites, some of us feel left behind. This feeling is known as FOMO.
The Fear of Missing Out, or FOMO, is a feeling of uneasiness or disquiet brought on by the idea that other people are having more fun, doing exciting activities, or succeeding.
At the same time, one is being left out or falling behind. The pervasive effect of social media, where users can readily flaunt their accomplishments and encourage others to compare their lives and experiences, is frequently linked to FOMO.
FOMO can show up in several ways, including continually checking social media updates, attending events or activities primarily out of a sense of not wanting to miss out, or being upset about plans or activities.
People’s mental health may be impacted because they may feel pressured to always be up to date or experience what others are.
Recognising that social media frequently portrays a distorted or edited reality and that people’s lives are not always as perfect or exciting as they may appear online might be beneficial for coping with FOMO.
Instead of comparing yourself to other people, it’s critical to concentrate on your priorities, values, and objectives.
The amount of time spent with loved ones and participating in things that genuinely interest you can help reduce the stress brought on by FOMO. Being mindful and present now might help you turn your attention away from outside factors and improve your general well-being.
Signs that may indicate you are experiencing FOMO
- Constantly checking social media. It may indicate FOMO if you constantly check your social media accounts to see what others are up to or compare your experiences to those of others.
- Feeling nervous or angry when excluded. Even if you were not initially interested in gatherings or activities, it could be a sign of FOMO if you feel unhappy or left out when you are not invited.
- Making decisions is difficult because you are worried about missing out on something better or more exciting. This could be a sign of FOMO. This could be a reluctance to commit to plans or a continual change of mind.
- Attending events purely out of FOMO. This may be a sign of FOMO if you frequently attend activities or circumstances out of FOMO rather than because you enjoy them or they fit your interests.
- Feeling resentful or unsatisfied with your own experiences. If you frequently think resentful or unsatisfied with your own life or experiences because you believe others have more exciting or satisfying lives, it may indicate FOMO.
It’s crucial to understand that occasionally feeling FOMO is common because social comparison is a human habit. But if these emotions persist, overpower you, or severely influence your well-being, it can be worthwhile to investigate coping mechanisms for FOMO.
Your general well-being can be increased by controlling and eliminating FOMO.
Methods for overcoming FOMO
- Identify your values, interests, and objectives as you consider your top priorities. You can make decisions and commitments that align with your desires and aspirations by knowing what is genuinely important to you.
- Limit your use of social media because it can make FOMO worse. Take this into consideration. Set clear limits or hours for social media use and be aware of how it affects your feelings and perspective of yourself.
- Practice being present now and engaged in activities without interruptions. Be present and thoughtful. You can increase your satisfaction and appreciation of your current employment by immersing yourself in daily life.
- Seek meaningful experiences. Priorities experience that align with your interests and values rather than seizing every chance that comes your way. Please participate in pursuits that make you happy and fulfilled, regardless of whether they are fashionable.
- Building and developing genuine relationships with others who share your values and interests should be your priority. Meaningful relationships can give a sense of fulfilment and belonging, minimising the need to look for approval or inclusion from outside sources.
- Self-care is important. Looking after your physical and emotional health is important. Make time for exercise, hobbies, time in nature, and mindfulness and meditation. These activities will help you feel refreshed and renewed.
- Relative difficulty. Remember that social media frequently presents an idealised image of others’ lives. Remind yourself that online content might not be entirely accurate. Think about your development and progress rather than how you stack up against others.
- Accept JOMO. Joy Of Missing Out is the opposite of FOMO. Accept that declining invitations to gatherings or activities if they conflict with your interests or principles is perfectly acceptable. Accepting JOMO enables you to put self-care first and concentrate on pursuits that genuinely make you happy and fulfilled.
It’s crucial to remember that getting rid of FOMO is a process and that altering your outlook and routines could take some time. As you attempt to control and lessen FOMO in your life, be kind to yourself and gentle with yourself.
In the end, let us set aside being FOMO rather than JOMO or, better yet, YOLO stands for You Only Live Once; why not make each experience count with our loved ones without comparing our happiness with others? We can enjoy our lives and live to the fullest, even without looking at others, and enjoy what we have.
Rona dela Rosa is the editor of Psychreg. She is an associate professor at the Polytechnic College of the City of Meycauyan.
