How To Get Over Fear Of Missing Out
Feeling like you're constantly missing out on what everyone else is doing?
You're not alone. Many people struggle with a fear of missing out (FOMO). In this article, we'll explore what FOMO is, why it's both good and bad, and how to avoid feeling like you always have to be doing something.
What is Fear of Missing Out?
Fear of Missing Out (FOMO) is a feeling that arises when we worry that we are not living life to its fullest potential. It can surface in various forms such as longing for adventure, exclusion from social situations, or even the feeling that our current lifestyle isn’t fulfilling enough compared to others around us. With the rise of social media platforms such as Instagram, Snapchat, and Facebook, FOMO has become especially prominent. We are now able to see constant updates about other people's lives which often leads to feelings of insecurity and being left out. (*)
What Causes Fear Of Missing Out?
The root causes of FOMO can vary depending on each individual. Commonly, low self-esteem or self-doubt can lead people to believe they don't measure up to those around them in terms of status or accomplishments. Additionally, comparing ourselves to others or falling into the trap of perfectionism often exacerbates feelings of not being “good enough” for certain activities or events. Lastly, fear or rejection can cause us to think that no one wants us around and thus leave us feeling isolated and inadequate as if something were wrong with us.
Why Fomo Is Good
Though we commonly associate FOMO with negative emotions and thoughts, it can be viewed as beneficial instead too. Having healthy doses of FOMO reminds us to stay motivated by seeking new opportunities and pushing our boundaries instead of settling into complacency.
Not only does this provide an opportunity for immense personal growth but also allows us to discover things about ourselves that we wouldn't have known otherwise.
For example, if I was feeling FOMO after seeing a friend post about their exciting trip exploring the Amazon rainforest, I could challenge myself to book a similar adventure and discover something entirely new. By pushing myself out of my comfort zone and trying something different, I will learn more about myself and have stories and experiences that I would never have known otherwise.
Why Fomo Is Bad
Unfortunately, though, too much FOMO has been known to lead people down a path towards anxiety and depression due to insecurity stemming from constant comparison with others around them; it proves difficult trying to keep up socially amidst looming deadlines at work/school as well as omnipresent images flaunting ideal lifestyles on all forms of media.
This can quickly turn into an unhealthy obsession where individuals strive only for short-term enjoyment instead of purposeful goals in life leading them towards overall dissatisfaction and disillusionment followed by regret towards the choices they made during their journey.
The end result is anxiety and a disconnect between the real world and what we see on social media. In fact, as I write this, I can see many people sitting at the same table but looking at their smartphones, so concentrated on their screens that they have no time to talk to each other. It seems to me that they are afraid to miss the discovery of the century!
How To Avoid Fear Of Missing Out
The key lies in learning how not to obsess over momentary gains over long-term objectives. Start by finding motivation within yourself rather than looking outside for it. Set realistic expectations for yourself for each day, week, and month so that you won't feel overwhelmed every time you see someone succeed before you.
Seek true happiness in your process rather than just the outcome – this will take away any sense of disappointment upon completion since your satisfaction will have already come through enjoying the ride! Additionally, practice mindfulness — detach yourself from unfavorable circumstances while allowing yourself moments away from technology & internet exposure so your real relationships & passions will be nurtured without distractions.
How To Overcome Fear of Missing Out
Just to wrap up, here are four tips that can help each of us to overcome FOMO.
Take Inventory: Make a list of all the positive aspects of your life right now, such as relationships or passions that you’re proud of. This will help to put everything into perspective and remind you of what you do have instead of focusing on what's missing.
Find Gratitude: Take a few moments each day to practice gratitude and appreciate the experiences you do have. This can be as simple as writing down three things you’re thankful for or expressing your appreciation to someone who has supported you in some way. A gratitude journal makes miracles, try it for yourself!
Redirect Your Energy: Rather than wallowing in FOMO, try to focus your energy on something more productive. This could be taking up a new hobby, engaging in physical activity, or volunteering in your local community. Define your mission, set goals, and set some time every day to progress as an individual.
Build a truly human community: If you’re feeling overwhelmed by FOMO and can’t seem to break free from it, don’t hesitate to speak with a friend. Take technology-pollution-free time, share feelings, and open up. If it seems impossible, go hiking, where there's no signal!
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(*) For more research on this topic check PubMed
