Becoming mom is like being invited to an exclusive party that you never get out of. One that is beautiful, chaotic and life changing. A place that no longer knows sleep, your purses become an unexpected diaper and snacks bag, and conversations often revolve around the kids. But amidst this new normal, there’s a hidden gem waiting to be discovered: The Joy of Missing Out (JOMO).
Why JOMO is the new FOMO
We live in a world obsessed with FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) – you know you’ve been there. Where our social feed is filled with pictures of glamorous events, or our once close circle of friends start venturing off on their own exotic vacations, JOMO comes as a refreshing change; one needed for this new pace of life as mom. It’s about finding happiness in not participating in every social gathering, travel opportunity, or simply keeping up with the life you led before becoming a mom. It’s about finding happiness in sitting on the couch and watching a good movie on a Saturday night. It’s about spending Sundays at the kids park instead of the pool party. It’s about the little moments; it’s the joy of missing out.
1. Celebrating the Unseen Moments
It takes a very special someone to make you celebrate the little things in life. The first time your baby grasps you finger, the first time they smile at you, that first crawl and first fall from trying to take their first steps. There’s something about these quiet, unseen moments that bring so much joy. It’s moments like that that make you realize, you are where you need to be.
2. Reclaiming Your Time (and Sanity)
Let’s face it; there is only so much a mom can do. And with that, a lot of “no’s” come with guilt and fear of missing out. But JOMO reminds us that every “no” comes with a “yes” – a yes to cuddles, story time, or just catching your breath after a long day. That doesn’t sound too bad does it?
3. The Beauty of Unplanned Joy
There’s something incredibly freeing about letting go of the need to keep up with everyone else, especially those with a different pace of life. Letting go opens up space for unplanned joy that comes with slowing down. Maybe it’s an impromptu giggle you got from your little one, or a random living room dance party with your partner. These are the moments, although simple, that fill your heart.
4. Connecting on a Deeper Level
The thing about JOMO is it’s not just about the physical presence, but it’s about being mentally and emotionally present. Sometimes, even when you accept the invitation to go out, your mind drifts off to your little one, not allowing you to live in the moment. Allowing yourself to make concious choices of what to say “yes” to and what you would rather turn down for now creates space for living in the moment. Sometimes, it’s watching your baby discover the world, other nights, it’s going on date night. Whatever the occasion is, it’s about being present.
Closing Thoughts
JOMO is not about isolation or feeling like you’re missing out on life; it’s about accepting the new pace of life you have ventured into for the time being and redefining what matters most. Sometimes, it’s finding joy in the quiet, messy and beautiful journey of motherhood.
It’s okay to want to slow down when your motherhood journey picks up. In a world that is moving so fast, sometimes it’s important to savor the small moments; the memories that will last forever.
I hope this brings a smile to your face and gives you comfort when turning down an opportunity that your heart is telling you “no” to. Turn it down, without guilt. Embrace the joy in those missing out moments!
