The Fear Of Missing Out

“The fear of missing out on things makes us miss out on everything.” — Etty Hillesum 

We’ve all had to make tough decisions in life, where we’ve said ‘Yes’ to things that we would’ve said ‘No’ to on another day, owing to a phenomenon known as the ‘Fear of missing out’, aka FOMO. 

The fear of missing out has played quite a role in my life. When my mental and physical state was poor and called for rest, the FOMO ran so deep that I gave in and went for the event anyway. I let an external event control how I felt. 

At times I miss out on enjoying the things that I love doing — I get stuck with an intrusive thought and fail to be present to the ‘here and now’. 

Fortunately for me, I have grown to understand that my journey is unique and I will be missing out on things anyway. Do I miss out on things more than the person next to me? Well, that’s a matter of perspective. No matter what we do or where we are, we are going to be missing out on something or the other. It then comes down to whether or not we let an external event affect our happiness and peace of mind. The choice is and always will be ours. 

A technique that has helped me deal with FOMO is believing that life is happening for me. So, when I make a decision, I know that it’s in alignment with my belief. 

Life throws an ample amount of opportunities our way. So, rather than regretting missing out on something, let us fully live whatever is at hand.