On January 1st, several friends embarked on a social media blackout. For a few, the primary intent was to be more present in their everyday lives. Others simply wanted to free up more time and recharge after the holidays. But almost all conceded that they also needed a break from constant comparison and pervasive FOMO (fear of missing out).
The ever-prescient Teddy Roosevelt nailed it when he said "Comparison is the thief of joy". No matter how confident or content you're feeling, one glance at a friend's engagement, birth announcement, house remodel or exotic vacation photo can bring you down. Or a video of friends having fun without you can make you panic (Why didn't I say yes? Why wasn't I invited? Think of all the fun I missed!)
FOMO and its cousin, FOBO (fear of a better option), are those envious and often anxious feelings you get when you perceive others to be happier than you. They're more successful, smarter, or in better shape. They have more energy, fun, friends or stuff. They have it all figured out. They're living their 'best life' while you're just living life.
Of course you want to live your 'best life'! Who doesn't? But it's easy to forget that everyone's 'best life' looks different. So, while it's natural to compare yourself to others, the next time you feel yourself slipping down that rabbit hole, ask yourself: What do I really want? What truly brings mejoy? Focus your energy on what's most essential and try not to get distracted by all the other things (regardless of how happy your friend looks swimming with dolphins).
This was the inspiration behind our JOMO design. When you're truly dialed into what is most essential, you open yourself up to the JOY OF MISSING OUT on all those things that aren't. It's a simple reminder to reject the pressure to do it all, have it all, achieve it all. Be intentional in your choices and then OWN them. Be relentless in the pursuit of YOUR joy.