The Rise and Fall of JOMO
Do you remember JOMO, the “Joy of Missing Out”?
A few years ago, we were deep in the era of slow living, digital detoxes, and self-care weekends away from screens. It was cool to disconnect and recharge.
Fast forward to 2025, though, and FOMO, the “Fear of Missing Out” is back with a vengeance.
The Return of the Rush
In this age of hyper-connectivity, people feel constant pressure to stay visible, relevant, and “in the loop.”
Social media feeds overflow with others’ victories, travels, and celebrations. Everywhere, there’s an urge to scroll to see what’s happening or to join in.
The pandemic briefly turned attention toward mindfulness and balance. But as the world reopened, the pendulum swung back, and FOMO returned stronger than ever.
The Performative Life
From viral events to fleeting TikTok trends, experiences are now judged by how “shareworthy” they seem.
Missing a party or launch feels like missing a life opportunity. Even rest and relaxation have become performances, think of the endless “self-care Sunday” posts on Instagram.
Experts say this shift reveals deeper social anxiety. Many people fear being left behind in terms of social, personal, or professional aspects.
Fear Over Fulfillment
Online comparison feeds this fear. The dopamine hit from likes and engagement creates a feedback loop, people participate not out of joy, but out of fear.
FOMO is everywhere now, replacing JOMO.
The Lost Art of Serenity
JOMO once reflected confidence in solitude, the calm that comes from disconnecting and living with intention. It was a quiet form of self-assurance.
But in today’s “attention economy,” serenity doesn’t trend.
Perhaps it’s time to remember that peace doesn’t need an audience.
