Ever felt a pang of anxiety because you're missing out on something exciting or interesting? You're not alone. FOMO, or Fear of Missing Out, is a common phenomenon. Let's delve into understanding it better and exploring strategies to overcome it.
FOMO is the fear of missing out
Worrying about missing out on new experiences, content, trends, and even investments can make us feel like we are falling behind.
- We can overcome this feeling and be present with what we have by embracing the present moment.
Know your triggers
Knowing what triggers your FOMO will help you get out in front of situations before they set off that alarm
- You can expose yourself to less of the stuff that makes you feel like you’re left out
- One thing that might trigger you does not trigger someone else.
When you find yourself thinking the grass is greener on the other side, remind yourself why you’re watering yours
As humans, we live by making a series of trade-offs
- Choosing one activity or path inevitably means you’ll miss out on others
- You can battle FOMO by being more fully present in and invested in the life you have today
When comparing yourself to others turns toxic, remember that there’s plenty to go around
FOMO is about having thoughts on missing out on opportunities which might increase our happiness
- Practice an abundance mindset
- Remember there are plenty of opportunities around for everyone, and just because someone else found success doesn’t mean you will
The stress response to FOMO is an old survival mechanism
Not feeling part of an event or in the in-group could be enough for someone’s amygdala to engage and cause a stress reaction or a fight-or-flight response
- Being a part of a community has historically been crucial to human survival
- Sometimes, the amygdala confuses what might have been threatening in the past with a feeling that isn’t actually a threat in the present
- Take a moment to assess what “danger” you’re really in
