By Sally Cross, Therapeutic Life & Relationship Coach for the Midlife & Senior Years.
Understanding FOMO
FOMO, the fear of missing out, often manifests as that unsettling feeling when you notice friends enjoying themselves without you. Many people may feel the FOMO when they see social media posts about events they did not attend, or were not invited to. These sensations can bring up feelings that affect our mental health.
Instead of fixating on events that you haven't been invited to, consider the importance of cherishing moments that truly matter to you.
The Alternative: JOMO
JOMO, the joy of missing out, is a refreshing alternative to FOMO. It's about finding joy in deliberately choosing solitude, or engaging in smaller gatherings. For instance, instead of scrolling through your social media feeds filled with festive photos, feeding your FOMO feelings.. consider using that time instead to organise your own event with close friends or creating special memories just for you.
Organise your festive time in a different way; embrace nature, adventure and new experiences, explore a new areas, try a new hobby, relax with a good book, practice some self-care, perhaps try journalling, or just simply enjoy some restful, quiet time to unwind, rest and reflect.
A New Perspective for Christmas
By rethinking how you view missing out, you can find that the most memorable experiences may come from following your own happy trail.
So this Christmas consider celebrating in your own special way. Sometimes, the best invitation is the one that invites you to peace, joy and self-discovery.
If you are affected by negative thoughts and feelings, and would like to talk them through with a non-judgemental, professional listener and supportive coach who can offer you a difference perspective and ways to navigate your feelings, drop me a line!
Comments