Is My Fear Of Missing Out In Control?

When you are having a good time, is it important for you to share your details online (on your social media)?

Is it important for you that you understand your friends’ “in jokes”?

Do you sometimes feel like you are spending too much time keeping up with what is going on?

Are you afraid that your friends have more rewarding experiences in their lives than you?

When you go on a trip, do you like to keep yourself updated on what your friends are doing back home?

Does it bother you when your friends are having fun without you?

When you miss out on a planned get-together, does it bother you?

Do you get anxious when you don’t know what your friends are up to?

Based on your answers, it’s unlikely that you have a fear of missing out (FOMO). While you may be displaying a few signs related to this, the chance is very small that you have a serious problem with FOMO. FOMO is a feeling that is starting to invade our social relationships. For many people, it’s very hard to settle for what they have. They may cling to the fear that they are missing out on something better. Social media is making it increasingly more difficult for us to be satisfied and happy with what we have.

Based on your answers, you are displaying some signs related to a fear of missing out (FOMO). You may be at future risk for developing a greater FOMO: if you continue to focus on what others are doing instead of enjoying living in your own moment, the FOMO symptoms may get worse. FOMO will decrease the overall quality of our well-being, and fulfillment in life in general. To avoid greater FOMO, it may be useful to practice mindfulness, to savor the moment, and to decide what to prioritize. This way you can give greater attention to those who have heart for you. Focus on things that enhance the quality, not the quantity of your experiences.

Unfortunately, you are displaying the signs typically seen among individuals who have a fear of missing out (FOMO). You may have a hard time disconnecting from your mobile devices for fear that you are not part of something better that’s going on. The fear may cause anxiety and it can sometimes even impact your ability to enjoy your life. If you find it beneficial, you can talk with your doctor about your symptoms. The biggest problem with FOMO is that it makes it impossible for us to be deeply engaged in our life in general and in our relationships. It may be useful to practice mindfulness, to savor the moment, and to decide what to prioritize.