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What is FOMO? -

At the heart of FOMO lies a mix of social insecurity, envy, and a sense of obligation. For people pleasers, this can be especially draining. They often feel compelled to say yes to every invitation or opportunity, driven by a fear of disappointing others or being left out.

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The rise of FOMO -

FOMO exploded into our vocabulary alongside the rise of social media—a catalyst and breeding ground for insecurity and unease. Scrolling through people’s “highlight reels” can stir up thoughts like, “My life isn’t as exciting as theirs” or “If I don’t go, people will think less of me.”

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What if? -

But let’s pause for a moment. What if you didn’t go? What if, instead of trekking 45 minutes across town after work on a wet and miserable Monday to meet friends for a pub quiz (when you’re terrible at trivia), you opted for something that truly brings you comfort?

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A cozy alternative -

Heading straight home, running a warm bath, slipping into your coziest pajamas, and curling up with your favorite TV show, while finishing off Sunday night’s takeaway. 

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Take a chill pill -

Does skipping the pub really mean your friends will like you less? Would you miss out on an unforgettable moment? Or are you just telling yourself you might?

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Burned out and unfulfilled -

FOMO tricks us into thinking that the fear of loss outweighs the potential benefits of doing what feels right for us. It pushes us to prioritize external validation over our own needs, often leaving us feeling unfulfilled despite our efforts to stay connected.

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From FOMO to JOMO -

Emerging research suggests that missing out doesn't have to be feared, it can actually be something we enjoy. So what if instead of giving in to the FOMO, you embraced its brighter antidote—JOMO, the “joy of missing out?” 

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You do you boo -

If FOMO means you tend to worry about others having fun without you, JOMO is all about focusing on what you love and enjoy (minus the FOMO).

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Relief of missing out -

And then there's “ROMO,” the Robin to Batman's JOMO! This rising concept, known as the “relief of missing out,” is gaining momentum, reminding us that sometimes, stepping back feels like a victory.

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A fresh perspective -

JOMO and ROMO offer a fresh perspective: skipping plans or turning down opportunities can feel liberating, rather than regretful. These caped "self-care" crusaders encourage time to rest, recharge, and enjoy life’s simple pleasures.

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Cultivating JOMO in your life -

Here are some ways you can harness the JOMO...

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Cultivating JOMO: prioritize what matters to you -

Begin by distinguishing between obligations and opportunities. Ask yourself, "Does this bring me joy or add unnecessary stress?" If it’s the latter, consider skipping it guilt-free.

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Cultivating JOMO: set boundaries -

Remember, you can’t say yes to everything. Give yourself permission to put your needs first, even if it means missing out occasionally.

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Cultivating JOMO: practice being present -

Instead of worrying about what others are doing, immerse yourself in what you’re doing. Whether it’s reading a book or enjoying a quiet evening, savor the moment.

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Cultivating JOMO: what brings your life purpose? -

Reflect on what matters most to you and respond in an authentic way. If your friends are all going to a concert but you'd rather catch up with a relative, don't succumb to thoughts of "what if."

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Cultivating JOMO: express gratitude -

Be thankful for the life you do have rather than mourning the one you don't. Remember, the solution to FOMO is to cultivate its opposite: JOMO.

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Cultivating JOMO: be more mindful -

Practicing mindfulness to stay present helps harvest JOMO by grounding you in the moment, thereby easing the anxiety and stress of worrying about what others are doing, or trying to predict what you might be missing out on.

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Cultivating JOMO: digital detox -

Limit social media consumption and take digital breaks if this is a trigger. Sometimes, ignorance can be bliss! 

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Smoke and mirrors -

Remember, not everything we see on social media is real. A picture-perfect moment might be followed by a blazing argument, or getting lost for hours. Social media isn't used to highlight life's lows so much as the highs. 

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Enjoy the ROMO -

Enjoy the freedom of missing out on things that don't align with your values or interests.

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Watch out for sales and marketing ploys -

JOMO isn’t just about social situations—it can also help combat sneaky sales and marketing tactics designed to exploit FOMO. 

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Does this bring me joy? -

Whether it’s a "limited-time offer" or an influencer’s rave about the latest must-have product, stepping back and asking, "Do I really need this?" can prevent buyer’s remorse and save you money.

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Benefits of JOMO -

The benefits of JOMO include enhanced productivity and focus, deeper engagement in relationships, and improved emotional and physical well-being.

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Quality over quantity -

Those who let go of the fear of missing out live more independently. This shift fosters a new kind of togetherness, prioritizing quality over quantity. In this perspective, simply doing nothing, can be surprisingly meaningful.

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Introvert or extrovert? -

FOMO tends to affect extroverts more than introverts, so it's unsurprising that introverts often relish the JOMO. 

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Striking the right balance -

But it’s important to remember that sometimes getting out of your comfort zone and being in community is extremely important for your well-being. As with most things, it’s all about balance.

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Living in the moment -

Life is full of choices, and with every decision we make, we inevitably miss out on alternative paths. Missing out on certain experiences or events is simply part of the human experience. Reminding ourselves of this sets us free. 

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Enjoy missing out -

The next time FOMO creeps in, remember: you’re not missing out—you’re making space for joy, relief, and what truly matters to you.

Sources: (Cleveland Clinic) (M Power Minds) (Positive Psychology) (Washington Post)

See also: Life lessons you can learn from introverts

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