People often feel anxious about missing out or finding something better, which has led to the term “Fopo.”
It’s only natural to care about the opinions of others. However, letting this fear dominate our daily lives can be a detrimental habit. Some experts argue that it hinders human potential.
Psychologist Michael Gelweiss introduced the concept of Fopo, calling it a “hidden fad.” He suggests that those affected by it can lose faith in themselves, which negatively impacts their performance.
Gervais elaborates that Fopo acts as a predictive mechanism for people trying to garner acceptance while avoiding rejection. It’s a proactive process, where individuals scan their environment for signs of approval.
This means that many find themselves constantly comparing to others and seeking validation externally.
It seems like social media plays a significant role in this. The drive for likes and comments can feel more about how others view us rather than what truly matters to us, according to licensed therapist Aparna Sagaram.
Gervais provides some clues to help identify if you’re experiencing Fopo.
Sometimes, it may show up in subtle ways—like pretending to enjoy a movie simply to fit in, or stressing over the length of time it takes to order coffee because you’re aware of the line behind you. Leaving a job can also provoke anxiety if you’re worried about your boss’s reaction.
If you’ve checked off a few of these characteristics, Gervais suggests that starting with a “clear sense of purpose” is crucial for overcoming Fopo.
With Fopo, there’s a tendency to seek validation from the external world instead of turning inward to gauge if you’re aligned with your true purpose.
This belief system is exhausting, too. Gervais mentions how Fopo consumes a lot of internal energy, which can contribute to burnout.
Being authentic appears to ease some of that pressure. Sagaram notes that the more genuine you are, the more confident you’ll feel—making it easier to disregard what others think.
