Am I really missing out?

F.O.M.O

Hi guyss. How are you doing and how was your week? This week was way too fast. I experienced a lot of emotions this week and it's because of a book I read.(I’ll tell you guys about the book soon) I read a lot this week and you guys, I feel fulfilled and accomplished.🤣 Classes are starting next week, I've seen my timetable and all I can think of is the longg nap I'm going to take after this semester ‘causeee, hm.

Before we continue, say a word of thanks to God.

“Fear of missing out (FOMO) is the feeling of apprehension that one is either not in the know about or missing out on information, events, experiences, or life decisions that could make one's life better.FOMO is also associated with a fear of regret, which may lead to concerns that one might miss an opportunity for social interaction, a novel experience, a memorable event, profitable investment or the comfort of those you love and who love you back. It is characterized by a desire to stay continually connected with what others are doing, and can be described as the fear that deciding not to participate is the wrong choice. FOMO could result from not knowing about a conversation,missing a TV show, not attending a wedding or party,or hearing that others have discovered a new restaurant.” (Source: Wikipedia)

March last year, I uninstalled all my social media apps except WhatsApp. It wasn't until June before I installed Twitter and Snapchat. I decided to just stay off Instagram and TikTok till whenever and right now , I don't have these two apps on my phone.

I made this decision that time because of two major reasons. One, it was become too much for me to keep with so many apps at the same time. Snapchat was my biggest problem, I was sort of new to the app at the time and opening streaks was such a chore. I can't even lie, it still feels like it, sometimes sha.😂The second reason was that I was taking so much information into my head, both things that concerned me oh and the ones that didn't, I was just taking everything in and it was starting to take a toll on my mental health.

At that time, I was just ready to do away with social media, I didn't even think of the fact that I might miss out on anything but recently, I realized that I might be scared of missing out.😂 I started feeling this way mostly because a lot of people I know started having live sessions on IG and I couldn't join in. Hallelujah challenge sef, it's more better on Instagram than on YouTube, I honestly don't know why.

The breaking point was last week. Award nominations started in my college and people have been going around asking people to tag them for this or that award. This guy walked up to me and asked me if I could open my Instagram and nominate him for one award. I said “oh sorry, I don't have Instagram” and the look on his face, Jesus!😂 I felt so embarrassed.

I also have this fear that I'm missing out on fun moments when I don't go for some events, especially when my friends are going. This is so funny because I don't like gatherings that much and I get anxious when they're a lot of people around me.

Am I really missing out or anxiety is just lying to me?

I’ve been asking myself this question because I know deep down that if I go back to Instagram or TikTok today, will I use this apps mainly for things that are edifying? Will I not go back to investing my time and energy into things that aren't my business? Will I really enjoy myself I attend these events?

If you can relate with what I've said so far, I want you to replace your Fear of Missing Out with Joy of Missing Out. Derive joy from the present and what is available to you at the moment. I mean, even if I can't join Instagram live sessions or Hallelujah challenge, I have my local church and even sermons on Spotify. I’ve also realized that if I do things or go to places because I'm scared of missing out, I might not really enjoy that place or thing as much as I should. Making decisions based on fear will only lead one to miss out on greater things. So, I'm going to wait. I'm going to wait until I'm sure that I can handle whatever comes with social media or gatherings.

I saw this picture online and it just made a lot of sense to me, especially the part that says "your inherent worth is not measured by your visibility”. It's good to attend events, it's good to show up online but it's good to also know that even if you're not there, you're not forgotten and you're relevant. It sounds delulu, I know but it's actually true. Always know that even when it feels like you're hidden from the rest of the world, God is working in you. Know that God doesn't have to bring you into limelight before He works in and through you.That little word of advice you give your friend or you helping someone with their heavy bucket of water in your hostel could be God working through you. You're a child of God, you're not limited! Take advantage of this period and don't let your miracle pass you by.

You think it's only when everyone knows you that you're relevant?

Looks like I had a lot to say today.😂 I really hope this wasn't too long and boring for you. Anyways, don't forget to share the gospel of Jesus and Pieces of Chloe to your friends.

Till next week, byee!💕 I love you all soo soo much.