As temperatures rise and the sun shines, we eagerly anticipate the summer of 2024, looking forward to spending time with friends, exploring new activities, enjoying the outdoors, and creating lasting memories. Yet, do you often feel more anxious about missing out on fun events and notice increased spending during the summer? This feeling, known as the Fear of Missing Out or "FOMO", is a worry that more exciting events are happening elsewhere (Oxford Dictionary, 2024). As we navigate the summer season, it is essential to acknowledge FOMO, ensuring that our summer experiences are not overshadowed by unnecessary anxiety and social comparison.
FOMO’s Connection to Social Media
FOMO doesn’t work alone; it is linked to negative experiences and emotions, often due to its problematic connection with social media. It is a widespread phenomenon rooted in the significant screen time prevalent in our daily lives (Gupta & Sharma, 2021). Initially, the Internet was a space for social interaction and entertainment, distinct from everyday life. Now, it is deeply integrated into our lives, influencing our social interactions and shaping our cultural environment. Social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok have woven this digital realm into our daily routines, significantly affecting our personal and social relationships. Our digital lives expose us to others trying new activities, traveling, and socializing, which can heighten the anxiety associated with FOMO and increase social comparison. FOMO has deep psychosocial roots, stemming from our desire to avoid loneliness and form interpersonal relationships (Bergman, 2023). Many people see social media as an extension of themselves, which only heightens the need to belong. This is why some people may feel compelled to share updates about their lives to show others that they are living a desirable life and to stay connected.
Why FOMO Intensifies in the Summer
A survey from Cosmopolitan UK discovered that 74% of people feel increased FOMO during the summer season, which is only heightened by their social media interactions (Cumming, 2023). Summer often provides more flexibility for travel and socializing due to breaks from school or work. Additionally, the pleasant weather encourages outdoor activities and trying new things. Before social media, only a few close friends knew about your plans. Now, almost anyone can see and be seen, increasing the likelihood of experiencing FOMO. You might find yourself wondering, “Should I also plan a trip to Europe this summer?” or “When can I squeeze in a beach day?” The pressure to attend social events and have fun every day during summer can create significant mental strain and anxiety, leading people to seek ways to cope. “FOMO Spending” occurs when you give in to peer pressure to buy things you shouldn't, to avoid missing out on quality time with friends or unique experiences (Devaney, 2018). Spending beyond your means on travel, concerts, and social activities to ease FOMO-induced anxiety is a maladaptive coping mechanism, worsening the initial problem. Consequently, FOMO and its spending habits are often linked to anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem (Gupta & Sharma, 2021).
Strategies to Overcome Summer FOMO
The good news? There are several ways to overcome FOMO and enjoy a stress-free summer:
Social Media Illusions:
Remember that social media doesn’t show the full picture. People rarely share their bad days online. Comparing your reality to someone’s curated digital presence can lead to unnecessary anxiety and self-doubt.
Social Media Detox:
Take breaks from social media. Start by limiting your daily screen time and gradually take longer breaks. This helps you stay present and reduces social comparison, fostering a healthier relationship with social media.
Stay Busy:
Engage in real-life activities that disconnect you from the digital world. This doesn’t have to be expensive! Enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and visiting parks, or pick up new hobbies like soccer and painting. These activities reduce screen time and promote healthy habits.
Appreciate the Good:
Shifting your mindset can be challenging, but finding gratitude for your life can significantly improve your well-being. Try journaling about what you’re thankful for or explore creative expressions of gratitude through drawing or photography.
Conclusion
While the allure of summer and the presence of social media can amplify feelings of FOMO, understanding and addressing these emotions is crucial for our overall well-being. By recognizing the illusions of social media, taking intentional breaks, engaging in fun activities, and cultivating gratitude, we can reduce the negative impacts of FOMO. Embracing these strategies not only helps in managing the pressures of summer but also fosters a healthier, more balanced relationship with both our digital and real-world lives, ensuring a season filled with genuine joy and meaningful connections.
References
Bergman, A. (2023). Social Media and FOMO. Social Media Victims Law Center.
Cumming, P. (2023). Summertime is FOMO-time. LifeBonder.
Devaney, T. (2018). Nearly 40% of millennials overspend to keep up with friends. Intuit.
Gupta, M., & Sharma, A. (2021). Fear of missing out: A brief overview of origin, theoretical underpinnings and relationship with mental health. NIH, 9(19), 4881-4889.
Oxford Dictionary. (2024). FOMO abbreviation. Oxford Learner’s Dictionaries.
This article is such a great reminder that we don’t have to live up to the ‘perfect summer’ ideal. I love the emphasis on embracing the present moment and being kind to ourselves. Thank you for sharing these tips on overcoming the pressure of social comparison and making the most of our sunny days in our own way!
Wow! Reading this made me realize how influenced I am by my FOMO. Great read!