The expectation to always be ‘on’ is exhausting. In this crazy connected world where ‘always on’ is the new norm, where we are constantly accessible and check our phones, maximising our screen time, the thought of actually missing a post, a message, or a phone call can create havoc in this screen-obsessed world we live in.
All this screen time is, however, affecting our relationships, our sleep patterns and how we think. Look around next time you see groups of people standing at a bus stop or waiting at the airport, and see how many have their neck flicked down staring at a screen.
A couple of years ago we ran a feature about FOMO, the fear of missing out, and the response was overwhelming. In this month’s issue, we asked writer Rebecca Douglas to explore the notion of JOMO, the joy of missing out. The antithesis of FOMO, it’s that joy of slowing down, switching off and living in the moment, saying ‘no’ to things you really don’t want to do. Much like the Japanese concept of ikigai, where your values, passions and talents converge, making your life worthwhile.
I quite like the notion of JOMO by just switching everything off and just being, and not staring at a screen. Do we really have to be that connected, comparing ourselves to others and seeing what we are missing out on? And that’s the point, experiencing the joy in saying no. No – I won’t attend that dinner, or that event, and essentially no I am not available.
There is an art and joy in saying ‘no’.
Rose Byrne on the chaos of life, and the excitement she draws from it. Neurosurgeon Dr Michael Wong’s My Story, and how he’s survived the odds after a horrific attack. If it’s a summer break you are in search of, be inspired by our Cruise Special – from Norway to Iceland and even Mexico and San Francisco – get ready for a bumper cruise season. Vegan eating is on trend, and you’ll be dying to try these sweet treats.