FOMO (the Fear of Missing Out) – is something we’ve all felt. It’s that nudge that pushes us to say “yes” to things we don’t actually want to do. You know, those:
- Meetings we don’t need to attend
- Gatherings we’re not excited about
- Projects we’re already too busy to take on.
But why do we do it? Are we afraid of missing something or of letting someone down, or maybe we are worried if we don’t attend every meeting - we won’t be across the details if our manager asks us questions.
BUT - every time you say “yes” to something that drains you, you’re saying “no” to something that matters – your energy, your peace, your joy.
FOMO Isn’t Worth the Cost
Saying yes out of FOMO usually comes with a price.
That price is your time, your energy, and your mental space. Taking on commitments just to stay “in the loop” or “be seen” doesn’t fuel you; it drains you. And that’s okay to admit. We don’t need to be everywhere, doing everything, to be valuable, connected, or respected.
There is Strength and Empowerment in Saying No
Let’s flip the script. Saying “no” doesn’t make you weak, unreliable, or selfish – it means you value your well-being. Imagine how it feels to decline a meeting that serves no purpose or skip a gathering that doesn’t fill you up. Every “no” frees you to say “yes” to things that bring you peace, excitement, or joy.
When you’re selective about where you spend your energy, you’re showing respect for your own needs. And that respect is powerful.
You’re Enough Without Being “Everything”
It’s tempting to try to be everything to everyone – the friend who’s always there, the colleague who’s always available. But the truth? Trying to be everything is exhausting. You don’t owe anyone an explanation for your “no.” Give yourself permission to be present where it matters most, and let go of what doesn’t serve you.
Start Now: Set One Small Boundary
Here’s a challenge for November:
- Think of one commitment you’ve been holding onto out of FOMO, obligation, or habit.
- Now, say no to it. No need for a grand gesture or big announcement – just a simple, quiet “no, thanks” to something that’s been weighing you down.
- Notice how it feels to take back that space for yourself.
Letting go of FOMO isn’t about missing out. It’s about making room – for what you truly love, for the people who lift you, for the moments that energise you.
