The global pandemic has created a disruption of the status quo and an opportunity to remake our future. The isolation and abrupt change from our usual schedule have reshaped our perceptions of the outside world and created far-reaching consequences. On a personal level, this has caused fear, angst and even boredom.
FOMO (the fear of missing out) is out of style and has given way to its emotionally distant opposite: JOMO (the joy of missing out). For years, technology has heightened FOMO by urging us to focus on other people’s alluring selfies and to respond with equally enviable images of ourselves. This promotion of the good life has had an encouraging effect for us to pursue it, consume more and not miss out. Living in a manner of JOMO, on the other hand, eliminates the need to compare ourselves to others in a time of social and physical isolation. It is about being present and content.
The crisis has caused an acceleration of time that feels like we have suddenly been lurched years ahead into unpredictable places. This great reset of our lives allows us the chance to ask ourselves candid questions like, Am I in good relationships? Do I have the right job? Am I living in the best location? Are my plans still viable? An honest confrontation of our immediate situation can provide clarity, prompt transitions and create paths for exits. Transitions are not a pause until we get back to our former lives. Those days are, for the most part, gone forever.
May we have the wisdom to reimagine new directions and the courage to make changes for a better future.
All the best,
