How to be a happy FOMOsapien?

If you look up the definition of FOMO in the dictionary, it says: abbreviation for "fear of missing out": a worried feeling that you may miss exciting events that other people are going to, especially caused by things you see on social media.

The fear of missing out (FOMO) is an emotional response to the belief that other people are living better, more satisfying lives or that important opportunities are being missed. FOMO often leads to feelings of unease, dissatisfaction, depression and stress. The rise of social media has increased the prevalence of FOMO throughout recent years. Data suggests it is most widespread throughout the millennial community.

Social media and other causes of FOMO

FOMO is caused by feelings of anxiety around the idea that an exciting experience or important opportunity is being missed or taken away. FOMO is generated by the amygdala -- the part of the brain that detects whether or not something is a threat to survival. This part of the brain perceives the impression of being left out as a threat, creating stress and anxiety. A person will be more likely to experience FOMO if they are already highly sensitive to environmental threats. This includes people who struggle with social anxiety, obsessive or compulsive behaviors -- including diagnosed obsessive-compulsive disorder -- or have a form of emotional trauma in their past.

Smartphones and social media have escalated the occurrence of FOMO by creating situations in which users are constantly comparing their lives to the idealized experiences they see posted online. Apps and websites like Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and Snapchat make it easier than ever to see what other people are doing. The glamorized versions of their lives that are broadcast on features like Instagram Stories or Facebook walls alters a user's sense of what is normal and makes them think they are doing worse than their peers. People look outward at the experiences of others instead of inward at the great things in their lives.

However, the anxiety and dissatisfaction created by FOMO can also lead people to desire connection and interaction or to increase their efforts to not miss out by checking different social networking websites more. Either way, people are led back to social media and a harmful circle is created. Therefore, social media is both a cause and an effect of FOMO.

How to get over FOMO

The first step to defeat FOMO and increase life satisfaction is to understand what it is and where it comes from. Once FOMO has been recognized, actions can be taken to remove it from a person's life. Most suggestions for people looking to overcome FOMO incorporate taking breaks from social media and paying more attention to the moment and the surrounding people and environment. Being more in the moment removes threats being perceived by the amygdala and lessens stress and fear.

The second step to defeat FOMO is to ditch it for JOMO. 

JOMO: ​joy of missing out (enjoying spending your free time doing whatever you want to do, without worrying that something more interesting is happening somewhere else)

I will share with you some videos about JOMO so you can learn more about it. 

In spanish

So, what do you say?

Do you want to be a happy FOMOsapien?