Who has never felt like a fish out of water and even slightly down and anxious for being the only person on the Instagram timeline who hasn’t gone to an event? In a world filled with invitations to parties, events, and trends, it’s easy to fall into the trap of constantly seeking experiences. However, what if we told you there’s a way to find joy and satisfaction in simply saying “no” once in a while? Welcome to the world of the Joy of Missing Out (JOMO), a movement that is gaining momentum among people seeking balance, self-awareness, and well-being.
After the FOMO (Fear of missing out) fever, a new acronym arises with a liberating attitude of allowing oneself to say “no” when everyone else says “yes”: JOMO. Vacation with friends? Carnival in another city? Meeting with a group? Late-night party? “No, thank you very much”.
What is the joy of missing out?
What is the Joy of Missing Out? JOMO is not just a passing fad but a response to the growing demands of modern life and the pressures of social media. It emerged as a natural reaction to the excess of information, stimuli, and expectations that many of us face daily. As people strive for a healthy balance between personal and online life, JOMO has emerged as a philosophy that promotes mental and emotional well-being. While FOMO makes us fear missing experiences, JOMO invites us to embrace the tranquility and fullness that come with being present in the moment and making conscious choices about how we spend our time.
The term “Joy of Missing Out” emerged as a way to encourage people to slow down, and dispense with some “mandatory impositions,” such as watching the trendy movie, the show/festival everyone wants to attend, the sensation book of the year, traveling to the current destination. It’s the ability to focus on doing what truly makes you happy. It’s also about rethinking the meaning and redefining the word “success”. It’s kicking exhaustion, stress, and regrets. It’s refining our values so we can thrive.
JOMO is actually being able to be in the here and now, to be able to enjoy what you are doing now without looking left and right and being jealous or anxious about missing something. That doesn’t mean you sit home alone with no social life. It means you’re selective with what you do without worrying about what others are doing.
That event you’re kind of dreading but feel obligated to attend? With JOMO, it’s about choosing what you want to do — and if you decide to skip that, it’s about not feeling the guilt or FOMO that you may typically feel. And it’s also about realizing that you may feel more fulfilled or content with taking a hike at your local park, reading a book or planning a night in with your besties instead.
Social media influencers and celebrities are starting to promote JOMO as a way to combat burnout and prioritize mental health. This cultural shift is evident in the increasing popularity of digital detox retreats, where individuals can disconnect from technology and reconnect with themselves and nature.
By practicing JOMO, you distance yourself from neurosis, toxic and aggressive relationships. You will say “no” to people who harm you and will know how to take care of yourself first. At the same time, you ward off anxiety and depression, which are the most common illnesses resulting from these situations. Additionally, JOMO promotes a greater appreciation for the simple things in life, strengthens personal relationships, and stimulates creativity. You may feel more present, grateful, and satisfied with your life, valuing real experiences over virtual ones.
How to practice?
- Step 1:
Establish healthy boundaries for the use of technology and social media.
Turning off Instagram notifications, avoiding updating X, and not living to immediately check new WhatsApp messages. The key is to balance the use of social networks between 70% in the physical world and 30% in the virtual world.
- Step 2:
Learn to say “no” without guilt, prioritizing your needs and well-being.
By establishing clear boundaries and honoring your personal limits, you empower yourself to make choices that align with your values and goals, fostering a healthier and more fulfilling life.
- Step 3:
Set aside time to be present in the moment and appreciate the little things in life.
Practice self-care regularly, whether through physical exercise, meditation, or hobbies that bring you joy. Cultivate a mindset of gratitude, appreciating what you have rather than focusing on what’s lacking.
In an increasingly busy and connected world, the Joy of Missing Out offers a gentle reminder that it’s perfectly okay to take time for yourself, to enjoy the quietness and simplicity of life. By embracing JOMO, you may discover a new source of contentment and happiness that comes from within. So why not try a little today?
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The article above was edited by Isa Mucilo.
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