FOMO, or the fear of missing out, is a phenomenon that has taken over millennials' lives. Basically, FOMO is that awful feeling you get in the pit of your stomach when you go on Snapchat or Facebook or Twitter, and you see people hanging out without you. Or the opposite, that awkward feeling of obligation when you really do not want to go out with friends, but you can’t say no because what if something great happens? You just don’t want to miss out. I’m sure that FOMO has been around forever, but it has intensified over the last of couple years to be a full-blown pandemic. With FOMO come feelings of anxiety because you start to think insane thoughts, such as you’re going to miss the biggest thing to happen ever in the history of the world. But that’s just it: You won’t. It’s fine to stay in and take a breather for yourself every once in a while; in fact, it’s actually really good for you. Ignore the myths that FOMO puts in your head, and put yourself first.
Myth 1: If you don’t go, you’ll miss something important.
The basic premise of FOMO is just as the name implies: you have a fear that you’re going to miss something if you don’t participate. And who knows, maybe Bradley Cooper will come into the restaurant you're in or you’ll finally see a flying pig, but chances are, your friends are going to have a completely normal night, full of the same jokes, the same gossip, and the same experiences even if you are not in attendance. Yes, you’d more than likely have fun if you went, but you’re probably not going to miss anything important if you hang back for a night.
Myth 2: You have to say yes or your friends will get mad at you.
Say your friend Bob asks you to go get ice cream with him and all the rest of your friends, but you’re really feeling like just sitting in bed and watching a movie. You say no, and Bob gets angry that you aren't going. Bob is a bad friend. Don’t be like Bob. Your real friends will understand that everyone needs time to just veg out in bed and not talk to anyone. On a serious note, though, if you have friends that are upset with you every time you decide not to go to dinner or a party, maybe it’s time to look for friends who understand the importance of self-reflection and relaxation.
Myth 3: You don't feel like going out now, but you’re sure that once you’re out, you’ll feel great!
The truth is, 99.9 percent of the time, if you feel tired or sad or just gross from not showering in three days, if you go out with friends, you’ll still feel tired or sad or gross -- you’ll simply have that same feeling in a public area. Sure, there’s a 0.01 percent chance that going out will make you feel full of energy and ready to take on the world, but don't bank on it. Take care of yourself first, then worry about social plans. If you need a nap, take one. If you need a pick me up, watch videos of puppies and eat Ben & Jerry’s while wearing your favorite pajamas. If you feel gross, take a shower, or if you really want to treat yourself, splurge and go all out with candles and a bath bomb to really pamper yourself. Take care of yourself first. You’re more important than a party or a Caesar salad at that mediocre restaurant your friends love to go to.
All in all, FOMO is something that isn't going anywhere anytime soon. That being said, don't get sucked into the myths and paranoias of FOMO, and make sure that you are happy before you try and please your friends by participating in their activities. And remember, sometimes hanging out alone with a pizza and some ice cream is just as good as hanging out with friends.