FOMO, JOMO and COVID: How Missing Out and Enjoying Life Are Impacting How We Navigate a Pandemic

Abstract

This paper presents the trends of FOMO (Fear of missing out) and JOMO (Joy of missing out) and how they have remained and possibly increased in importance during a global pandemic. Both constructs are explained, and the negative consequences of FOMO are detailed. How consumers FOMO has led to increased consumption during the pandemic is explained. JOMO is presented as a cure for FOMO in general, and especially during a pandemic. JOMO is a more suitable alternative that leads to increased overall satisfaction and a more optimistic outlook.