Managing and Overcoming FOMO

Hey there. This is Nir Eyal and we're going to talk about a subject that affects many of us. We're going to talk about fomo, the fear of missing out. We are going to explore what FOMO is, how it impacts our lives, and most importantly, how we can overcome it. Let's get started. Fomo, the fear of missing out is that anxious feeling we get when we believe something exciting or interesting might be happening elsewhere without us. That nagging thought that someone somewhere is having a better time or leading a more fulfilling life than you are. But what exactly triggers FOMO and how does it affect us? Let's find out. Researchers have found that around three quarters of people, especially college age students, experience fomo. It can lead to lower life satisfaction, increased use of social media, and even risky behaviors like texting while driving. However, not all studies paint a grim picture. In fact, some shy or depressive individuals may benefit from increased social media use, and there's even evidence of a positive correlation between certain online activities and increased life satisfaction. So how can we deal with FOMO in a healthier way? Here are some practical strategies you can try right now. First, learn to relish the feeling of being out of the loop. Embrace the idea that sometimes you won't be invited or even aware of everything that's happening around you. That's alright. This approach, known as the Joy of missing out or Jomo, can help you find satisfaction in doing things on your own terms. Next, consider taking a break from social media. Disconnecting for a day, a weekend, or even an hour can allow you to rediscover the wonders of the real world. If you struggle with your online presence, consider using an app or other tool to help you limit distraction. There are all kinds of free tools that can generate reports about your online usage, set time limits, and even block specific websites to minimize distractions. You may want to even consider deleting certain apps from your phone, or at least from your home screen. Now, it's not about quitting these apps altogether, but rather about creating a healthy balance and regaining control over your time. So, for example, I don't use Instagram on my phone. I only use Instagram on my laptop, so I'm not constantly tempted to check it throughout my day. Lastly, you've got to remember that social media is not real life. It's a highly curated version of what people want you to see. It's like personal social media marketing, showcasing only the highlights while leaving out the inevitable disappointments and personal challenges that all of us face. In conclusion, lots of people feel fomo. However, by implementing these strategies, we can regain control over our time and attention, we can find joy in missing out, and we can have a healthier relationship with social media. Remember, your happiness should never be dictated by someone else's highlight reel. Embrace your own journey and live life on your own terms. That's it for today's video on conquering fomo. I hope you found these tips helpful. And for more, don't forget to follow me and check out my website, nearandfar.com.