The Fear of Missing Out vs. The Joy of Staying In




You open Instagram, and there it is—another group of people posting their “best night ever” stories, flashing their brightest smiles under neon lights, making sure we all know they’re having a blast. Meanwhile, you’re lying in bed, wrapped in your blanket burrito, debating if you should start a new Netflix series or rewatch the same comfort show for the 27th time. And then it happens—FOMO kicks in.

“Should I have gone out?” “Am I missing out on something fun?” “Is my life just boring?”

Let me stop you right there—no, you’re not.

Social media has made it seem like if you’re not out every weekend, attending the coolest events, or constantly surrounded by people, then somehow, you’re not living life to the fullest. But let’s be real—half of those people are just showing off because they think it’s cool. Because what’s the point of having fun if you don’t have a perfectly edited Instagram story to prove it, right?

Here’s the truth: Being around fake people for the sake of “not missing out” is not worth it. If the only thing keeping you in a friend group is the fear of being left out, then is it even real friendship? Or just a glorified obligation to keep up appearances?

There’s something so underrated about staying in, cozying up with a blanket, and binge-watching an entire Netflix series without fake conversations and forced fun. No overpriced food, no exhausting small talk, no wondering why you’re even there in the first place. Just pure, guilt-free relaxation.

So the next time FOMO creeps in, remember: missing out on something fake is actually a win. Staying in and doing what makes you happy? That’s the real flex.


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