GenZ and Peer pressure: Fear of Missing Out (FOMO)
Have you ever heard about Khánh Vy - the elegant girl who is famous for knowing 7 languages, and just received a full scholarship for a master's degree from the UK government? Have you ever compared yourself to other fellows? Her achievements seem to set her apart as a shining example of success in the eyes of many people. But as impressive as Khánh Vy's accomplishments may be, have you ever found yourself comparing your own achievements to those of others? This phenomenon is not uncommon among Generation Z, often referred to as Gen Z, which comprises individuals born between the mid-1990s and early 2010s. In today's digital age, where social media platforms showcase curated highlights of people's lives, the Fear of Missing Out (FOMO) and the pressure to measure up to others can be overwhelming for many young individuals.
Fear of missing out (FOMO)
FOMO refers to the perception that others are having more fun, living better lives, or experiencing better things than you are. It’s not just about missing out on a specific event; it’s a deeper sense of envy and self-doubt. As digital natives, Gen Z have grown up in a world profoundly shaped by technology, social media, and interconnectedness. It is universal consensus that gen Z’s relationship with social media is multifaceted. On one hand platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat offer avenues for self-expression, creativity, and connection. On the other hand, they can also bring anxiety and insecurity.
A global survey conducted by the McKinsey Health Institute revealed that social media usage often leads to FOMO and poor body image among Gen Z individuals.
When someone is in a better position than you, you're gonna feel jealous. Why do they receive higher grades than me? How can they achieve 100% scholarship from Ivy League?
The Impacts
1. Stress and anxiety
It often stems from our tendency to compare ourselves to others. In the age of social media, we’re bombarded with glimpses of other people’s seemingly perfect lives. We see their achievements, vacations, and milestones, and it’s easy to feel inadequate. It's not overstated to say that we-Gen Z at least once feel jealous with our peers. “How can he/she get that bunch of milestones?” That question appears every time we see someone show off about their life.
2. Fear of Falling behind
It’s the fear that while we tread our path, others are sprinting ahead—achieving milestones, seizing opportunities, and leaving us in their wake. We glance sideways, comparing our progress to theirs, wondering why our steps feel sluggish. The digital age amplifies this fear, as social media showcases everyone’s highlight reel. We always fear other achievements, yet, we forget that life isn’t a linear race. One thing to believe is that everybody has their own phase of time.
It’s a mosaic of unique journeys, each with its own pace, detours, and hidden gems. So, let’s embrace our rhythm, knowing that sometimes, falling behind leads to unexpected leaps forward.
Phương Anh
