Overcoming FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) in the Millennial Age

"Learning to Manage oneself is more important than learning to manage the world around us."

If Abraham Maslow was alive today, he would have modified his 'Hierarchy of Needs Theory' to accommodate smartphone and Wi-Fi in the basic needs category consisting of food, clothing and shelter. 

The Screen that Runs the World Around Us

In this fast-paced world driven by technology, smartphones have become an integral part of human survival. And  there is no denying that we wake-up to our cellphones and fall asleep seeing it. In the process, we all are becoming the victims of FOMO, unknowingly!

What is FOMO?

FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) as a term refers to social anxiety that arises from the belief that one is missing out on interesting events by not being present while others might be having fun. This is often triggered by seeing post on social media. It can result from not knowing a conversation or missing out on important information - on professional front as well. The most important element in FOMO is 'Fear' - fear of not knowing what all we might miss out.

Signs and Symptoms of FOMO:

  • Constantly checking out phone with every beep.
  • Being glued to social networking sites always.
  •  Constantly (daily) posting random images/content on social media to remain in the limelight.
  • Poor psychological & social well being often leading to depression.
  • Unable to say 'NO' or going to events to please others though the heart is not willing to.
  • Procrastinating daily schedule due to lack of focus on important daily activities.

The signs and symptoms of FOMO are an ultimatum - telling us to pause and review the situation we are in for a better inner peace.

 Tips to Overcome FOMO:

  • Acknowledging its presence: Be aware of its presence since we all are immersed in the world or technology that also forms an integral part of our work life. 
  • Learning to say NO: Be honest to others and learn to say 'NO' when you genuinely don't feel like going to a party or indulging in activities done by others. STOP doing it only to please others.
  • Unplugging: Unplug form the social media world and take a break for sometime daily. Mute all the unwanted group notifications. Learn to build authentic connections that really matter to you in life.
  • Do what you love: Cultivate a hobby that can be therapeutic in nature for your emotional and mental wellbeing. 
  • Disciplined Lifestyle: Make a routine plan for yourself - first thing in the morning before you start with your day. Try to include at least 30 minutes for basic exercise such as stretching or walking. 

FOMO can make you do things even when you don't want to do it. However, there is a way to overcome the fear. And once you master it, you will be more focused to the core tasks that need to be done.

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