Do You Have a FOMO?

It seems apparent that just about everyone today has a FOMO. It’s evident to me by the constant peering by folks – both young and old – at the little hand-held screens of their cellphones. And it doesn’t matter where they are or who they’re with; curiosity of what else might be going on seems to repeatedly trump whatever activity they’re currently involved in.

What is FOMO? It’s the Fear Of Missing Out and it appears to be a national epidemic.

The Urban Dictionary describes FOMO “as anxiety that an exciting or interesting event may currently be happening elsewhere, often aroused by posts seen on a social media website.” FOMO was coined to describe that anxious feeling that can arise when you feel there is a more exciting prospect that is happening elsewhere – and unfortunately, you’re not there.

According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, Aarti Gupta, PsyD writes that much of the angst surrounds the posts of friends (whether genuine or virtual) and the fabulous lives they all seem to be leading. It wasn’t until she did further analysis that she realized that these “highlight reels” of people’s lives are the best views into their lives. Typically the bad hair days, the philandering mates and the child who failed yet another test at school don’t make it into these show reels.

So in addition to realizing these truths, Gupta also offers these (abbreviated and edited) suggestions to facing and overcoming a FOMO:

• Admit you have a problem. After all, you can’t be everywhere at all times.

• Turn off the chatter. Turn off your phone. Seriously. You can do it and the world will still revolve.

• Practice mindfulness. Immerse yourself where you are, what you are doing and whom you are with. Not only will you benefit, but the person across the dinner table would appreciate it as well.

Now that your FOMO has been conquered, let’s get back to the TV remote. Why is it that we’re not as concerned about what we’re watching as wondering what else is on that is drives us nuts? FOMO/TV version. Who knows – it might make a great reality TV show.

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Of course there is one thing you definitely don’t want to miss out on – turning in a ballot for 2017 Finest. The Finest gives readers of the CV Weekly a voice as to the best places to eat, best service providers, best everything that makes life so much better. Want to know the Finest place for sushi? We can tell you? Need car repair? Readers will share who they think is the Finest mechanic. And for business owners who think they provide the Finest services, consider advertising in June to remind people to vote for you. After all, there are many choices out there and I’m sure you want to stand out from the crowd.

Every week in June a ballot can be found in the paper (this week on page 26). Ballots are also available online at www.cvweekly.com.

All ballots must be turned in by July 7.

In September, we’ll announce the results and present them in a beautiful all color magazine that can be easily referenced throughout the year.

So take a minute to fill out a ballot (one per person, please) and let your voice be heard!

  robin goldsworthy