Whether you are working an eight hour shift, or glued to a desk in the library with a final project looming over your head, there is definitely somewhere else you would rather be. This feeling of anxiousness that sweeps through your body is commonly referred to as FOMO (fear of missing out). According to the urbandictionary.com, it is the "fear that if you miss a party or event you will miss out on something great.” This tense sensation is one that is often felt during your college years.
We all have so many obligations – to our friends, family, work, school, clubs and activities –that one can find it impossible to do everything they want to do and still get a decent amount of sleep. You might feel pressure do everything with everyone. Which, is (shocker) entirely, impossible. You may be forced by yourself or outside sources to say "no" to certain activities.
Today, the FOMO feeling is awakened through social media. When you innocently check Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram you receive photographic evidence of the highlights of someone's life and all the “fun” being had without you.
For example, the classic red cup photo. This is when two or more party-goers all pose with their cups, insinuating “we’re drinking alcohol,” for their followers (and future employers) to see. You begin to imagine them dancing and talking to cute guys while you’re in the library writing a research paper in your sweats. It is perceived that they are having such a great time without you. Although, that photo with 50 plus likes doesn’t show the drink spilled on one of their shirts right after it was taken, or the dent in the D.D.’s bumper after attempting street parking outside the frat house.
Social media has a sneaky way of making things seem better than they actually are. If their photo manages to make you jealous of the “ah-mazing” time they’re having, just remind yourself that things aren’t always as they seem. Keep in mind that the opportunity to go out to the bar or go to parties happens every weekend (and most weekdays). There will always be another party.
In college, you learn to juggle all aspects of life, but that doesn’t come without the reoccurring feeling of FOMO'. The best way to deal with FOMO is to reassure yourself of what is important to you. There will always be another party or event to go. You will not get another opportunity to study your butt off the night before a final exam or celebrate your grandmother’s 79th birthday with your family.
In life, you need priorities. What matters in the short-term won’t matter in the long-term. Keep your goals in mind and don’t let the fear of missing out bum you out.
