How to deal with FOMO
How to deal with FOMO
FOMO, or the Fear of Missing Out, is a modern-day social anxiety, intensified by our digital age's constant connectivity.
It's the fear that people are having rewarding experiences without you, and it can be a significant source of stress and dissatisfaction, particularly among teenagers. Here are some strategies to help you manage and overcome FOMO in your life.
1. Cherish friendship/family
The most important thing is to cherish your friendship instead of chasing after followers or likes on social media.
Real-world friendships offer a depth of connection that is hard to replicate online. Face-to-face interactions involve a rich set of cues like body language, tone of voice, and shared experiences that are absent in digital communication. Furthermore, real-world friendships often involve a mutual give-and-take, shared history, and personal knowledge that fosters a deep sense of connection and belonging.
weCall is devoted to maintaining the bond between you and your bestie by being authentic-selves. weCall is endeavoring to cultivate a space where friendships are treasured and nurtured, rather than pursuing superficial follower counts.
2. Acknowledge your feelings
The first step in dealing with FOMO is recognizing it.
It's okay to feel left out or anxious about missing experiences, especially when social media seems to highlight what you're missing. Remember, your feelings are valid and common, especially in this age of hyper-connectivity.
When you feel FOMO, try to think what is important in your life.
3. Set boundaries with social media
Social media platforms are notorious for triggering FOMO.
In 2020, a study published in the "Canadian Journal of Psychiatry" reported that higher social media use, higher perceived stress, and higher FOMO were significantly associated with greater odds of meeting criteria for major depressive disorder and suicidal ideation among participants.
It's essential to remember that people generally only post the best parts of their lives online, creating an illusion that their lives are always exciting, which isn't true. Try setting specific times for social media use and limit the number of hours you spend scrolling each day.
4. Focus on the present
The core of FOMO is being overly concerned about what might be happening elsewhere, often leading to neglecting the present moment. Practicing mindfulness can help you appreciate your current situation and find enjoyment in your own experiences. This could involve meditation, or simply taking a moment to appreciate your surroundings and present experience.
5. Cultivate gratitude
Practice gratitude for what you do have and the experiences you are part of. It's easy to overlook the value in our own lives when we're comparing them to others'. Keeping a gratitude journal can be a powerful tool, encouraging you to reflect on and appreciate your own experiences.
6. Engage in real-life interactions
While it's easy to get wrapped up in our digital lives, remember the importance of real-world connections. Spend time with friends and family without the distraction of phones and social media. These genuine connections can help reduce feelings of FOMO.
7. Self-care
Taking care of your mental and physical health can make you more resilient to FOMO. This includes maintaining a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, ensuring you get enough sleep, and participating in activities you enjoy.