Ever felt like you’d be forgotten because you are not present either physically or virtually somewhere? Like you just have to be there even if you don’t contribute in any way? Well, this could be FOMO! FOMO stands for fear of missing out. This fear can be based on not being present or included in friend circles or social affairs. You could feel like there is a world of wonderful happening that you aren’t a part of. The fear of missing out is the worry or concern about missing out on things like social gatherings or events, being afraid of being forgotten, not feeling a sense of belongingness, not knowing the most recent rumors or news, or missing in action when others are hanging out.
When you have FOMO, you could feel as though you aren’t as up to date on social customs and happenings as you “should” or “would” be. FOMO can occur when you aren’t invited to a party, when your co-workers leave the office without you, or when you aren’t following the newest social media trends. Another easy way to avoid FOMO is to regularly check your text messages. It might also manifest as signing up for activity despite the potential for burnout due to a busy schedule or picking up your phone right away when you receive a notification.
Causes of FOMO
FOMO may be caused by an underlying craving for social connection and belonging. Humans have a built-in need for social interaction and a desire to be a part of something bigger than themselves. Low self-esteem and self-belief are contributing factors in feeling the fear of being left out by others. People may experience mental distress as well as bodily discomfort when they feel they lack these kinds of relationships. This might have an impact on some people’s general health and functionality.
Social Media Influence
In today’s world where everything is at the tap of a finger, being away from social media is sparse. We constantly engage in different portals of media for being connected, feel validated, and be engaged. It might have been FOMO if you’ve sat at home wondering what you were missing, looked longingly at your phone while waiting for a text, or had trouble deciding which event to skip the same night. It is very easy to feel inadequate and not “good enough” from the influx of inebriated information. Social comparison, being hooked to a screen for hours, eating meals scrolling down the phone all have become a norm these days. People have forgotten what it’s like to look up in the sky and see the clouds, feel the breeze, and forget the likes & comments.
If you can’t find any way to ignore social media influence then you can speak to our online psychologist at www.ganeshaspeaks.com.