Over the last few months, many of us have experienced a lot of different changes all at once, and suddenly things look a lot different. I know this is a struggle a lot of people face; but, I am personally finding it especially hard as a college student. When I look back on last year, I think about all the fun activities I got to participate in with my friends and I feel like I am missing out now. While I know these changes are for the best, it doesn't take away my fear of missing out (FOMO). Although I still experience FOMO, I want to share a way of thinking that has helped me overcome it at times.

The best way I have found to overcome FOMO is by looking at my life in terms of a timeline. On this hypothetical timeline, you have to consider your past experiences and those experiences you haven't had yet. Of course, this timeline might look different depending on what you have experienced in life and what you still want to. Now the way that this mindset has helped me is by reminding me how small some of the things I am missing out on are in the long run. This mindset also reminds me of all the things I still have to look forward to in the future.

To help explain this logic further, I want to provide an example. Something I was sad to be missing out on was gamedays with my friends. Although I know gamedays are still a possibility, it won't be what we are used to, and that is hard to accept. Right now, missing out on those experiences seems like such a big thing when it actually won't be down the road. You'll remember the different experiences, but you won't remember every little moment. So while you might be sad now, it will eventually pass, and you'll remember it won't matter in 10 years.

Even though this year might look different, try to embrace it as much as possible. You might not be having the experiences you imagined; however, you have an opportunity to experience new things in new ways. Just remember to stay positive and stay safe. All of this will be worth it in the end.