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Forget the fear of missing out (FOMO) plaguing your LinkedIn feed. The latest workplace mantra is all about JOMO – the joy of missing out. Don’t be alarmed. JOMO isn’t about shunning every social event or professional opportunity. It’s about consciously choosing, with a healthy dose of satisfaction, what enriches your work life and what doesn’t. Research published in Science Direct in 2023 showed a direct link between JOMO and a positive mental health, such as life satisfaction and mindfulness.  
 
The “always on” culture has fuelled an insidious FOMO, making us feel inferior when skipping a networking event or declining extra work. But JOMO teaches us not to equate busy-ness with productivity. Here’s how it can benefit your professional life: 
 
1. Prioritising ruthlessly: JOMO forces you to define your goals and filter opportunities through that lens. Is that extra weekend training actually relevant to your career path, or just feeding your FOMO? Saying no to irrelevant things frees up time and energy for what truly matters. 
 
2. Embracing boundaries: Work-life balance has become a cliché, but JOMO makes it practical. Leaving work at work allows you to recharge, be present with loved ones, and pursue personal interests. You come back to the office refreshed and focused, ready to excel. 
 
3. Fighting comparisons: Social media portrays work through rose-tinted glasses – curated success stories and endless after-work drinks. JOMO reminds you that everyone’s journey is different. Stop comparing your behind-the-scenes to someone else’s highlight reel. Find your own rhythm and celebrate your progress. 
 
4. Saying no without guilt: JOMO empowers you to politely decline requests that don’t align with your priorities. Instead of feeling obligated, you can explain your reasoning and suggest alternative solutions, building trust and respect with colleagues. In fact, in 2019 OnePoll found that 78% of millennials engaged in JOMO, preferring solitude over socialising.  
 
5. Finding contentment: JOMO shifts the focus from chasing constant growth and validation to appreciating what you have. Celebrate your achievements, big or small, and acknowledge the value you bring to the table. This confidence makes you stand out authentically. 
 
Of course, JOMO isn’t about complete isolation. Networking events and professional development opportunities can be valuable. The key is to choose consciously, not compulsively, based on your goals and needs. 
 
Remember, work is part of your life, not all of it. Embrace the joy of missing out and watch your professional journey take flight. You might just be surprised at what you achieve when you stop being afraid of what you’re missing. 

Author Openside Group