Before this year, I'd never heard the term "FOMO." When I heard it for the first time, I thought it was either a computer term or a small rodent. FOMO is defined as the fear of missing out. If you go out every single night because you're scared you'll miss out on having fun with your friends, you definitely have FOMO.
I'll be the first to admit that I hate to pass up a night of having fun with all of my friends. I love going out and having fun with them, even if it is something low key. Whenever I stay at home, I always feel like I could be doing something better. Recently, I've realized that that's not how it should be. Why should I feel like I'm missing out on something fun when I have fun with my friends almost every single day? One night of staying in isn't the end of the world. Especially as we grow up, we shouldn't put as much emphasis on the importance of going out. We need to value the relaxation and the easygoing atmosphere of spending a night at home.
Hear me out: I almost never say no to going out on a Friday night. But sometimes, putting on your pajamas and watching a movie with your sisters is the best cure for a hard week. And honestly, what's the worst that can happen? You miss out on a really drunk frat guy jumping off the roof? The craziest Around the World party of all time? Your friends will talk about it for a day or two, and then it's forgotten for the rest of the semester. The same parties happen every weekend; it's not a huge deal if you miss out on one out of dozens more. Yeah, maybe your friends went out and made out with some guys, but you watched "Gone Girl," ate ice cream and (probably) weren't wearing pants; who really won?
Maybe it won't be this upcoming weekend, but I challenge you to take a night or two off within the next couple of weeks. If you've had a challenging week full of exams and meetings, treat yourself to an early night where you don't have to put on tight jeans and makeup. You'll appreciate the leisure and it'll be a great rest for your body. The fear of missing out keeps you from appreciating the little, refreshing things in life. And as college students, we all need a break every once in awhile.
