Right now, I’m over a thousand miles away from campus, completing my army training. I’m missing an entire semester with my friends, and yet, I’m still writing for this paper. It’s strange, being so far from everything familiar, watching life move on without me. That feeling? That’s FOMO.
The “Fear of Missing Out” isn’t just about parties or social media envy, it’s a quiet, persistent anxiety that creeps in when you feel like you’re on the outside of your own life. It can happen to anyone: the student abroad, the commuter who goes home early, the person who didn’t get invited, or the one who just doesn’t have the energy to say yes this time.
In college, where everything seems to happen “right now”, FOMO thrives. There’s always something going on: group chats lighting up, events on the quad, impromptu plans, and the nonstop highlight reel of everyone else’s life online. And while it can feel like you’re the only one on the sidelines, chances are the person next to you feels the same way.
FOMO is rooted in a deep need for connection, something we all crave. But ironically, trying to keep up with everything can leave us feeling more disconnected than ever.
So how do we deal with it?
Here are a few things that have helped me, and might help you too.
1. Shift your mindset from missing out to being present.
Instead of asking, “What am I missing?” try asking, “What am I experiencing right now?” Whether you’re across the country like me, or just staying in for the night, your life is still happening. There’s meaning in the quiet moments, too.
2. Disconnect from the highlight reel.
Social media makes everything look like a movie premiere, friends smiling, perfect lighting, exciting plans. But you’re not seeing the downtime, the awkward silences, the stress, the homesickness. Take a step back from the scroll. Curate what you consume, and remember that most people only post their best 10%.
3. Redefine connection.
Even if you’re physically far away, there are ways to stay connected that feel real, letters, voice notes, meaningful check-ins. FOMO often comes from feeling excluded, not just from events, but from people. Strengthen the relationships that matter most.
4. Practice gratitude, even when it’s hard.
When you focus on what’s missing, you forget what’s present. For me, that means recognizing the growth, the purpose, and the privilege of where I am, even when it’s uncomfortable. Try writing down three things you’re grateful for each day, even if they seem small.
5. Accept that you will miss things, and that’s okay.
You can’t be everywhere. You can’t say yes to everything. And honestly? That’s not failure. That’s life. Sometimes choosing rest, responsibility, or even solitude is the bravest thing you can do.
FOMO isn’t a weakness, it’s a sign that you care. You care about your friendships, your place in the world, and the memories being made. But if you spend all your time chasing the fear of missing out, you’ll end up missing the life that’s actually yours.
Wherever you are, whether on campus, off campus, or like me, somewhere far away, you’re still part of something. And your story is still unfolding, even if you can’t be there for every chapter of someone else’s.
You’re not behind. You’re not out of the loop. You’re exactly where you need to be.
