Do you agonize over accepting a party invitation because you’re waiting to see what other opportunities may come your way and want keep your options open?
Are you constantly checking updates on social media to make sure you’re not missing out on the latest breaking news or conversations?
Do you feel as though others are living happy and fulfilling lives while you aren’t?
Do you tend to compare yourself with others and feel as though you don’t measure up? If so, then you might be experiencing fear of missing out, also known as FOMO.
What is FOMO?
With the ubiquity of social media, it’s easier now than ever to keep tabs on what your friends and loved ones are doing. You may feel inadequate when comparing your life to what others experience. It’s natural to make comparisons that lead to feeling inferior.
FOMO is a combination of envy and insecurity that can contribute to anxiety, depressed mood and indecision. It may also lead to doubts about whether you’ve made the best decisions in life. However, there’s hope for change if you follow these tips for managing FOMO.
Recognize and admit this is an issue for you
Take an honest look at your behaviors and emotions to determine if they’re consistent with FOMO. Ask others close to you if they’ve noticed you struggle with being left out. It can be helpful to realize that you’re not the only one who struggles with this issue.
Accept that things are going to happen without you and that’s OK
You can’t be everywhere and do everything. It’s simply impossible and unrealistic. Life is full of choices that can be difficult to make at times. There are often too many appealing choices and not enough time or resources to fit them all in.
Learn to accept the outcome by appreciating your freedom to make a choice. You can always make different choices in the future.
Limit access to social media
Check social media updates once a day. Designate device-free areas in your home and work environments. For example, decide that you won’t have devices while eating or when visiting with family or friends. Limit distractions by turning off all notifications except the most critical ones. Be present now rather than wishing you were elsewhere.
Practice mindfulness and stop multitasking
Learning to be present in the moment without judgment can lead to a calmer mind and increased appreciation for what is in front of you.
One of the simplest mindfulness techniques is observing your breath. Choose a setting that isn’t too distracting. Work on breathing from the belly instead of the chest. Even a few slow, deep breaths can be effective in reducing feelings of stress and anxiety. Once you find a natural rhythm, you can add a mantra as you breathe in, such as “Live this moment.”
Regular mindfulness practice can contribute to a happier and more fulfilling life.
Stop comparing your life to others
Social media feeds often represent a “highlight reel” that accentuates the best and most exciting aspects of others’ lives. Most of us aren’t partying or vacationing all the time.
What you often fail to see are the struggles and more normal activities that all individuals encounter. Find joy in your own current experiences instead of searching for them somewhere else.
These are just a few suggestions for how to better manage FOMO. Feeling more secure with your choices in life can be difficult to achieve. Learning to let go of worry about what you may be missing and increasing your appreciation for what makes you satisfied can lead to a happier and more rewarding life.
If you struggle with persistent worry that’s difficult to control, consider reaching out to a mental health professional for support.
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