Dear Earth,
Today I am going to take a break from Earth and venture into the minds of teenagers!
We live in an era where the rapid advancement of social media and technology has revolutionized how we connect, express ourselves, and find meaning in life. These platforms offer incredible opportunities to share stories, discover new ideas, and stay informed. However, they’ve also given rise to a troubling reality: many in Generation Z struggle to see their own worth outside of their online personas.
This growing dependence on external validation has led to the widespread experience of FOMO—the Fear of Missing Out.
When I first heard the term “FOMO,” I instinctively thought it referred to some kind of physical health condition. It sounded serious, like a disease that eats away at your body. Ironically, in a way, it does. But instead of targeting the body, FOMO takes its toll on the mind. To my surprise (and demise), I discovered that FOMO is shorthand for the Fear of Missing Out—a psychological phenomenon that can consume your thoughts and erode your sense of self-worth.
The Psychological Impact of FOMO
In extreme cases, FOMO can lead to unhealthy behaviors, such as overcommitting to activities, prioritizing online presence over real-life connections, or experiencing burnout from constantly trying to “keep up.” It’s a relentless cycle of comparing yourself to others, feeling like you’re falling behind, and scrambling to prove otherwise.
But why does FOMO have such a powerful hold on us? My theory is that it stems from a lack of confidence and self-worth. Humans are naturally social creatures, and the idea of being excluded triggers deep feelings of rejection. We crave connection and validation, which makes us vulnerable to the critics of social media. Every scroll reminds us of what we’re not doing, who we’re not with, or what we don’t have.
Over time, this constant exposure creates a false narrative: that everyone else is living a more exciting, fulfilling life. And if we’re not part of it, we must be doing something wrong.
FOMO and Self-Worth
At its core, FOMO isn’t just about missing out on events or opportunities—it’s about what those things represent. It’s about wanting to feel included, important, and valued. When we tie our sense of self-worth to the approval of others or the appearance of having an enviable life, we set ourselves up for disappointment.
In many ways, FOMO reflects an internal struggle. It’s a sign that we’re looking outward for validation instead of finding value within ourselves. At some point, experiencing FOMO might indicate a deeper issue: a lack of confidence and self-acceptance.
In conclusion, while social media offers a powerful way to connect and share experiences, it also creates an environment where FOMO thrives and undermines our sense of self-worth. The constant comparison to others and the pressure to measure up can have a lasting psychological impact, leaving us feeling inadequate and disconnected. To break free from this cycle, it’s crucial to focus on cultivating self-acceptance and finding fulfillment from within. By embracing who we are, rather than seeking validation from external sources, we can reclaim our confidence and create a healthier relationship with both ourselves and the digital world around us.
Have a Great Thanksgiving!
Best,
Jessica Ngok
Letters To Earth 