Unmasking FOMO: Navigating Through The Fear Of Missing Out
By Sosana Shelah
Is FOMO in your twenties normal? At what age is it deemed inappropriate to feel left out? Is feeling FOMO an immature feeling or something that adults can struggle with and still be deemed mature individuals? FOMO is an acronym that stands for “fear of missing out” and this is something that numerous individuals struggle with; whether it's a social event, a trending issue, or even something as trivial as a new makeup product gaining attention, there's often a strong inclination to join in immediately. This fear of missing out can lead individuals to make impulsive financial decisions and sometimes even compromise their values. At times, it can escalate to the point where personal well-being is jeopardized just to avoid the anxiety of feeling left out.
The phenomenon of FOMO, though pervasive in our modern society, often lurks in the shadows of conversation due to the reluctance of many to openly acknowledge their susceptibility to it. The specter of missing out on experiences deemed desirable has a hold on many, allowing embarrassment to creep in. Yet, FOMO is an intrinsic face of human nature, a manifestation of our innate desires and fears to be seen as admirable to others, maybe even an attempt to feel personal fulfillment.
The internal need to be perceived in a specific light can be consuming. There is a marriage between individualistic high expectations and the need to keep one’s reputation upheld. As you grow and age, FOMO tends to become a minuscule thought or maybe it completely designates when you reach the point where the approval of others is of no concern. At what age is that?
In my contemplation, FOMO is rooted in the wounded ego, a sentiment universally experienced. The ceaseless flux of trends, the perpetual influx of nevel events, and the consistent allure of social media’s grasp on a highlighted, often unattainable, false reality that conspired to unsettle even the most steadfast of souls at times. The consistent comparison of what could be is ever-present, which makes feeling truly fulfilled an achievement that comes after a path of deep personal reflection. There is no specific age at which that happens. For some, finding what fills your cup is a lifetime journey of experiencing what does not serve you and learning to find love in personal interests that might not be desirable to vast majorities. For others, it is simply observing the behavior of different groups of people and not finding bandwagon topics desirable; their internal reflections are focused elsewhere.
You have to pause and wonder: Is the allure of these experiences truly grounded in my individualistic desires, or are they merely echoes of my admiration of others? Do we covet them for their intrinsic value, or are we merely swayed by the internal need for communal validation?
Realizing that feeling anxious due to the fear of missing out is felt by everyone regarding the cravings of different experiences; being self-aware of what you want on a personal level is the cure. Learning about yourself and knowing the difference between what actually interests you versus the need to please a sense of vanity within oneself is the only way to mend the relationship you have with you.