Editor’s Note: JOMO
“Close the door, light the light, We’re stayin’ home tonight, Far away from the bustle and the bright city lights, Let them all fade away, just leave us alone …”
So wrote Tom Springfield in 1965, reflecting on the joy of taking time out and enjoying solitude, either alone or together.
Almost 60 years later, people are again enjoying quiet times, shutting the busy world out, and opting for isolation, if only for a short period. FOMO (Fear Of Missing Out) has been replaced by JOMO (Joy Of Missing Out) as more people attempt to de-stress, and live life in the slow lane. Instead of FOMO or FOBO (Fear Of Better Options), JOMO relates to pleasure derived from living in a quiet or independent way without feeling anxious about missing out on exciting or interesting events that may be happening elsewhere.
Paradoxically, it’s a wellbeing lifestyle decision, and the antithesis of FOMO. Adherents derive pleasure from social exclusion, and experience relief from being expected to be always switched on and to be constantly productive.
Stress, anxiety, and mental health issues are all prevalent across the various layers of society, and it is good to know there are a few relatively easy solutions to combat some of those, even if it is in the form of an acronym.
Don’t be afraid to take time out, and close the door on the outside world, if only for a few hours during the weekend. Experience the feeling of contentment, the joy that comes with not worrying over the possibility of missing out on what others feel is important.
Relax, and let it all fade away.
