At the start of 2024, people all over my TikTok feed were talking about JOMO (joy of missing out). I originally thought, “Who actually enjoys missing out?” Then, I realized, I am a person who enjoys missing out.
When Covid hit during my junior year of high school, the socially anxious introvert in me was beyond thrilled – no reason to leave the house! As long as I had my dog, books, and zoom art classes, I was set.
When Covid restrictions began to lift, I tried to go back to my “normal” life, but my social battery was depleted from the lack of use for over a year. It was my senior year of high school and I still wanted that “High School Musical” experience where everyone enjoyed prom and graduation, but I also found that I was, and would be, happy to do absolutely nothing.
I originally didn’t intend on going to my prom, but I ended up going because everyone said that it was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. I ended up going and spent the majority of the time disassociating and thinking about how I should be enjoying this experience.
As freshman college orientation rolled around, I got that feeling – that I didn’t care to attend – all over again. I was happy to be at home reading with my dog, but I knew I needed to get out there.
Now, as a college senior, I can fully appreciate the joy of missing out, as I see all of my friends out partying on a Friday night and I’m in my pajamas with a glass of prosecco. (Yes, I’m aware that I sound like a grandmother).
Not only is 2024 my year of JOMO, but every year since Covid has been my year of JOMO.