I was having coffee in a cozy coffee shop here in the city and I was seated at a table next to a group of millennials. I didn’t mean to eavesdrop on their conversation but their voices were just too loud that I couldn’t help overhear what they were talking about.
One girl said, “Naunsa gud na sya, dili ko kasabot iyaha personality,” (I didn’t have any idea who they were talking about). Then they only guy in the group said, “Ay sus, morag wala pud mo kabalo nga FOMO na sya.”
They were talking about someone who has the FOMO syndrome or “fear of missing out.”
‘Fear of Missing Out’
In an era where social media feeds are curated to showcase the highlights of our friends’ lives, it’s easy to fall prey to the “fear of missing out” mindset. This pervasive anxiety, fueled by the constant comparison of our own experiences to the seemingly perfect moments of others, can leave us feeling discontent and perpetually out of the loop.
However, it’s crucial to recognize that FOMO is often an illusion, and embracing the idea that it’s okay to miss out can lead to a more fulfilling and authentic life.
FOMO thrives on the notion that happiness lies in the next event, the next destination, or the next social gathering. It whispers that if we’re not constantly engaged in exciting activities, we’re missing out on life itself.
But the truth is, life’s richness isn’t measured by the number of events we attend or the experiences we accumulate. It’s about the depth of the moments we choose to savor and the connections we genuinely foster.
One of the most liberating realizations is that it’s impossible to experience everything. The world is vast, and its wonders are endless. Trying to partake in every event or trend is not only exhausting but also counterproductive. It dilutes the joy of the experiences we do have by making them feel like checkpoints in a race rather than meaningful moments to cherish.
Moreover, the fear of missing out often leads to a paradox of choice. With so many options, we can become paralyzed, unable to enjoy what we have because we’re worried about what we might be missing. This constant second-guessing can erode our ability to find contentment in the present.
Choosing what we should experience
Instead of fearing what we might miss, we should embrace the beauty of what we choose to experience. By focusing on the quality of our engagements rather than their quantity, we can cultivate a deeper appreciation for the moments that truly matter. Whether it’s a quiet evening with a loved one, a solo hike in nature, or a deep dive into a hobby, these are the experiences that enrich our lives and define our memories.
Furthermore, missing out on certain events can lead to unexpected opportunities. When we’re not busy chasing every trend, we create space for serendipity. We might discover a new passion, meet someone who changes our lives, or simply enjoy the peace of a quiet moment.
Life has a way of rewarding those who are open to its surprises.
While FOMO may be a natural response to the curated highlights of others’ lives, it’s important to remember that true fulfillment comes from within. By letting go of the fear of missing out, we open ourselves up to a world of possibilities. We learn to value the depth of our experiences over their breadth, and in doing so, we find a richer, more authentic life waiting for us.
It’s not about being everywhere; it’s about being truly present wherever we are.
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Author’s email: legis616821@gmail.com
