In today’s world, it’s easy to feel like everyone is out living their best life while you’re stuck at home. The fear of missing out (FOMO) can creep up when you see others traveling, partying, or checking off their social calendars with exciting plans. But what if staying in was the answer to overcoming that feeling? Learning how to get over FOMO isn’t about shutting yourself off from new experiences—it’s about shifting your mindset and embracing the peace and fulfillment that comes from slowing down.
Whether you’re cozying up in your new home in Altamonte Springs, FL, enjoying the ambiance of candles in your apartment in Boulder, CO, or hosting a small gathering in your rental house in Conway, AR, it’s time to redefine what “missing out” really means and discover the unexpected magic that happens when you choose to stay in.
Why we experience FOMO
FOMO, or the fear of missing out, has really taken off in today’s world—thanks, in large part, to social media. With an endless stream of perfectly curated moments flooding our feeds, it’s easy to feel like everyone else is living their best life while we’re sitting on the sidelines. Suddenly, the pressure to keep up is real, and it can lead to jumping into events, trends, or activities just to feel “in the loop”—even if it’s not really what we want or need.
“When we experience FOMO, our sympathetic nervous system is in the driving seat. Although FOMO is not a true fear, it can cause an array of thoughts that can cause a mild adrenal and nervous system reaction,” states Magic Barclay, founder of Wholistic Natural Health, a group of holistic health practitioners. “FOMO is a relatively new phenomenon and has come to light in an era where we as a species need constant validation and input.”
This anxiety usually comes from a deep desire to belong. We all want to feel accepted and part of a community, which is a natural human desire. But with social media constantly throwing comparisons in our faces, it’s easy to feel like we’re falling short or missing out.
“FOMO is based on our anxiety about where we fit in the world,” shares Ifetayo Ojelade, PhD, executive director of A Healing Paradigm, an online collaboration between wellness-focused practitioners who take a holistic approach toward healing. “All of us want to feel accepted and liked, which means we never want to miss out on social activities. However, resetting at home and enjoying your own company is not about missing out but instead, your ability to recharge and really get to know yourself.”
Instead of stressing over what we’re supposedly missing, why not put the focus on how to get over FOMO? It’s all about turning inward, creating experiences that truly bring us joy, and recharging at home. Once we start enjoying our own company, suddenly the pressure to keep up with everyone else doesn’t feel so heavy.
1. Shift your mindset
When it comes to learning how to get over FOMO, sometimes the best approach is to rethink how we view the situation. Instead of letting the fear of missing out dictate your plans, consider how staying home can be just as, if not more, beneficial.
Chris Bagg, head coach and founder of Campfire Endurance Coaching, a sport coaching company specializing in small-batch, one-on-one instruction, encourages people to “Think instead about ‘staying put to succeed.’ Sure, you may experience some FOMO if you don’t travel to a spring training camp or early season event this year, but traveling to events and camps can be draining, physically, emotionally, and financially.”
Chris Bagg highlights that sometimes the best training happens at home, where you have the luxury of consistency and familiarity. “Instead of booking that race or that flight, look around your house and recognize that you have a lot of great training resources close at hand,” he says. “Staying home can keep your training familiar and consistent,” freeing you from the external pressures to chase after every new event.
Reframe your internal dialogue
This mindset shift is all about reframing our internal dialogue. As Kiersten Twitchell, LCSW, SEP, founder and director of Live Full Therapy, a group of therapists in Nashville, TN, puts it, “Overcoming FOMO begins by shifting the way we think about the experience. Our minds can easily convince us that we’re ‘missing out’, which can negatively affect our mood and cause us to feel dissatisfied with whatever we’re choosing to do instead.”
But what if we could change our perspective? “Reframing those thoughts to something like, ‘I’m taking care of myself,’ or ‘I’m enjoying my own company,’ can help us feel more calm and present,” Twitchell suggests.
Twitchell also points out that “FOMO thrives by focusing on what is lacking,” so when we flip that mindset, we train ourselves to see the abundance around us. By acknowledging the good that’s already in our lives, whether it’s the comfort of home or the people around us, we can start to break free from the pressure of constantly seeking something outside of ourselves.
2. Turn your home into a sanctuary
Your home has the potential to be more than just a place to sleep—it can become your personal sanctuary, a space where you nurture your mind and soul. By crafting an environment that reflects your values and promotes relaxation, your home can become a true reflection of peace and comfort.
“Your home can be your sanctuary, a place where you create a cozy atmosphere with soft textures, warm lights, and comforting rituals that nurture your soul. It’s where you reconnect with yourself and find the clarity to curate your experiences with intention,” encourages Cassie Zeeb, MA, lifestyle coach at Cassie Zeeb Coaching.
Zeeb emphasizes that by designing a space that invites relaxation and reflection, you can cultivate an environment that brings clarity and peace. “Embracing the richness of your home life allows you to gather loved ones around a full table, build meaningful connections, and create cherished memories that rival any night out.” A warm, welcoming home can become the perfect setting for shared moments that matter, whether it’s a simple dinner or a long chat over tea.
Make small changes
Sometimes, it’s the smallest changes that make the biggest difference. “Staying at home and lighting a candle has a way of transforming your home into an inviting retreat,” states Nikki Macredes, Bee Swell Candle Co., an eco-friendly, soy candle company based in Middleton, ID.
“The way the flame flickers, adds a soft, ambient glow, creating a sense of calm and tranquility. The cozy scent of a candle, paired with the comfort of your home, makes you want to cuddle up with a blanket and a cup of tea, and enjoy the peace and quiet from our busy world.” Coupled with a cozy aroma, it transforms your home into the perfect place to unwind, leaving behind the stress of the outside world.
By creating a space that feels like a retreat, you can savor a peaceful home, finding comfort in the simple act of being at home. So, grab a book, watch a movie, and just relax—there’s nothing quite like the comfort of home.
3. Consider staying home an act of self care
Sometimes, the act of staying home can be just as fulfilling as going out—if not more so. Sabrina Perez, hypnotherapist and life coach at Sabrina Perez Therapy and Coaching, encourages us to see our homes as more than just spaces to sleep or hang out. “Overcoming FOMO starts with recognizing that your home is more than just a place—it’s a reflection of your inner peace.” By turning your home into a place of self-care, you can create a space that is a place of rest and rejuvenation.
“When you consciously create a space that feels nurturing and aligned with who you are, staying in becomes an act of self-care, not isolation,” Perez adds. This idea invites us to embrace staying home as a way to reconnect with ourselves, rather than feeling it’s a form of missing out.
The more comfortable and at home we feel in our space, the more natural it becomes to enjoy our own company. “Whether it’s curling up with a book, journaling, or simply enjoying a quiet evening, embracing your own company rewires your mind to feel whole and enough exactly as you are,” Perez concludes.
For parents, especially moms in the early stages of motherhood, the force of FOMO can feel strong. “As moms, it’s easy to feel the pull of FOMO,” shares Juliana Caspari, co-founder of MESH Moms, a mom group in Atlanta, GA, for support, resources, and lifelong connections. “However, embracing JOMO (joy of missing out) allows us to find joy in the quieter moments at home.”
Caspari points out that by creating peaceful spaces—complete with candles, soft lighting, and a good book—you can prioritize self-care routines like journaling or stretching to connect with yourself.
The same self-care concept applies to men who may feel pressure to constantly be on the go. “FOMO is overrated—real luxury is choosing yourself. Staying in isn’t about missing out, it’s about leveling up,” shares Mike Summers, chief marketing officer at Scotch Porter, a men’s grooming products company.
Summers explains that home can be the perfect environment for self-care. Whether it’s setting the mood with the right scents, indulging in grooming rituals, or simply giving yourself the time and space to relax, staying in can elevate your well-being.“Light a candle, pour a drink, hit your beard with a deep-conditioning treatment, and turn your night in into an experience,” Summers suggests.
By reframing how we view staying at home, we can transform it into a conscious act of self-care. It’s not about missing out on life; it’s about choosing to invest in yourself and creating meaningful moments in the comfort of your own space.
4. Listen to the calm of nature
Taking time to learn how to get over FOMO has a unique way of urging us to slow down and cherish the quieter moments of life. By stepping back from the constant rush, we can reconnect with nature and the peace it brings.
“Winter is a time when the world slows down, inviting us to turn inward and find comfort in the coziest corners of our homes,” shares Sarah Moody at Lost Sage, an online soy candle company. Rather than succumbing to the pressure of FOMO, Moody encourages us to let the natural rhythm of nature guide us.
The simple act of lighting a candle can have a profound impact on the atmosphere of your home, helping you transition from the busyness of the day to a more restful state. “The simple yet profound practice of lighting candles can transport you to your favorite memories and make your home feel incredibly inviting,” Moody adds, creating a soothing environment that not only helps you disconnect from external pressures but also encourages a FOMO-free season of relaxation and rejuvenation.
Scott Ballard, coach, author, and speaker at Confidence Coach, also suggests ways to bring nature’s calming influence indoors. “Open a window for fresh air or add flowers to brighten your space,” he says, reminding us that nature’s simplicity can offer immediate peace.
“Enjoy your own company and become less distracted by others,” Ballard adds. By fully embracing the peace of your own space, you can discover the depth of relaxation that comes from simply being present. “Staying home can be as rewarding as going out, offering essential moments for development and tranquility.”
5. Practice mindful living
“There’s something powerful about intentionally slowing down and enjoying your own space,” shares Alexis Smith, owner of Gold + Ivy, a soy candle company. Smith emphasizes how, in the midst of our busy lives, our homes can become a sanctuary for rest. “The world moves fast, but home is where you can reset—lighting a candle, indulging in self-care, and letting the stress of the day melt away.”
These careful acts allow us to press pause and practice mindful living at home. “When you create a space that feels like a retreat, staying in becomes something you look forward to, not something you’re missing out on,” Smith concludes.
Rather than feeling like you’re missing out on the hustle and bustle of the world outside, you begin to enjoy the peace that comes with being at home. With the right mindset, staying in can feel like an essential, restorative part of self-care, not a sacrifice.
Mindful living is all about creating moments that bring us back to the present. Routines can help transform your home into a place where you not only relax but also cultivate a deeper connection with yourself.
“Creating at-home rituals, like a cozy reading nook or a mindful evening routine, makes staying home feel like an intentional choice,” suggests Katelynn Villari, LCSW, Intown Family Therapy, a therapy practice based in the Grant Park neighborhood of Atlanta, GA. “When you embrace stillness, you gain clarity, reduce stress, and deepen your connection with yourself.”
In a world filled with distractions, carving out time to be present in your own space can offer the clarity and peace needed to navigate life with a more centered, grounded perspective. Practicing mindful living at home is an act of self-respect and a commitment to working on how to get over FOMO.
6. Host at home instead
If you’re feeling the pull of FOMO, why not turn the tables and host a gathering in your own home? Not only will you create a space for friendship connections, but you’ll also have full control over the event, ensuring it’s an enjoyable experience for everyone involved.
“Embrace your inner host or hostess and practice radical hospitality in your home,” states Meg McLeroy, LMFT, a licensed psychotherapist at Midtown Psychotherapy Associates. Instead of heading out to events, you can create your own memorable moments by inviting loved ones into your space. “Plan a small gathering for your friends and family and welcome them to your home. Have tasty food offerings and delicious drinks.”
Hosting at home not only helps us get over FOMO but also opens the door for meaningful interactions. McLeroy recommends sparking interesting conversations with games like ‘Table Topics’ or ‘Apples to Apples,’ or even trying something a little more creative like ‘OuiSi,’ a photo-based game that sparks conversation through art. “The only FOMO left will be for those who don’t accept your invitation,” she jokes.
Naomi Veak, founder of My Sober Girlfriends, a sober lifestyle collective based in Portland, OR, offers another insightful way to shift from FOMO to connection. “When you feel FOMO, pause and ask yourself: Is this a fear of missing out on something, or is it a craving for real connection?” Veak asks. “If it’s the latter, you don’t have to go out into a crowd to fill that need.”
Instead, Veak suggests inviting a friend or two over for a simple but heartfelt experience. “A fun experience could be cooking together, making art, or listening to music,” she recommends.
This alternative to crowded events offers the opportunity to bond in a more personal way. Hosting at home can provide the opportunity to prioritize quality interactions and truly engage with the people who matter most to you.
7. Ground yourself in the present moment
“One way to get over FOMO is by grounding yourself in the present moment. Staying in can help you appreciate your surroundings and focus on what truly nourishes you,” states Jen Shepherd, MSW, LICSW, LCSW, CCA, Shepherd Therapy, an online therapist.
By pausing to take in the peace around you, you can tune into what truly matters—your own well-being. Shepherd highlights that this slower pace offers the chance to recharge, whether through calming activities like deep breathing, indoor gardening, journaling, or gentle movement. By simply being present in your own space, you can shift your focus from external distractions to internal fulfillment.
As Shepherd points out, embracing the ‘joy of missing out’ (JOMO) can help reduce the anxiety of constantly measuring your life against others. “As you embrace JOMO, you become less preoccupied with what others are saying and doing, allowing yourself to cultivate peace, ease anxiety, and be fully present with yourself.”
Damaris Johnson, LMFT, clinical director at The Walk of Life Counseling Center also encourages us to ground ourselves in the present moment to counter FOMO. “FOMO can make it seem like life is always happening somewhere else, but the real joy comes from being fully present where you are,” Johnson states. “Instead of chasing every invitation, focus on creating a home environment that feels peaceful, fulfilling, and uniquely yours.”
When you give yourself permission to be grounded in the present moment and learn how to get over FOMO, you may realize that you’re exactly where you need to be. “True connection, rest, and happiness aren’t found in constant activity—they’re built in the moments we slow down and savor right where we are,” Johnson adds.
8. Allow yourself to unwind at home
In a world that glorifies going out and staying busy, sometimes the most refreshing choice is to stay in and take time for yourself. By prioritizing how to get over FOMO, you’re giving yourself the chance to recharge, reset, and tap back into what really makes you feel good.
“Staying in is the new going out,” declares Lisa, founder of AIRO, an aromatherapy candle company. “You might feel FOMO at first, but focusing on yourself, spending time alone at home, and being less distracted by what others are doing is hugely beneficial.”
One of the best ways to unwind at home is through the calming influence of scent. Lisa suggests using candles blended with essential oils, which not only create a cozy atmosphere but also provide aromatherapy benefits. “For example, lavender is good for calming the nervous system and reducing anxiety, cedarwood provides the feeling of comfort and safety whilst ylang ylang is sedative.”
By adding these small details to your space, you can turn your home into a relaxing space. Enjoying the peace of staying in gives you the freedom to escape the constant need to compare yourself to others, creating a sanctuary that supports your mental and physical well-being.
How to get over FOMO: Embrace the peace of staying in
Getting over FOMO isn’t about cutting yourself off from new experiences; it’s about shifting your mindset to truly savor the moments you already have. It’s not about saying “no” to the outside world—it’s about saying “yes” to the rich, quiet joys that come from staying in. When you learn how to get over FOMO and relax in the comfort of home, you discover a deeper sense of fulfillment that doesn’t need constant excitement to thrive. So, embrace JOMO, and let your home become a sanctuary of rest, self-care, and joy.
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