Band 8+: "Fear of missing out (FOMO)" is commonly used to describe people's anxiety that others are experiencing rewarding events without them, a sensation often amplified by social-media feeds. Some argue that FOMO can act as a catalyst that fuels proactive behaviour and ambition. Many others maintain that FOMO triggers chronic dissatisfaction, prompting constant upward social comparison. Another line of thought practically highlights that FOMO drives impulsive purchases and "scarcity-marketing" tactics, often at the expense of financial prudence. Which view(s) do you agree with? Provide specific reasons and examples to support your answer.

There is now appearing a defining psychological phenomenon called Fear Of Missing (FOMO) in this modern era, particularly among young people. While some argue that it can stimulate ambition and proactive behaviour, I strongly agree with the view that FOMO more often triggers chronic dissatisfaction by encouraging constant upward social comparison. In the long run, its psychological costs outweigh any temporary motivational benefits.

Firstly, FOMO thrives on the culture of curated perfection created by social media. Individuals are repeatedly exposed to carefully selected highlights of others’ lives such as academic achievements, luxurious holidays, romantic relationships, and professional milestones. People rarely share their failures or struggles. As a result, users compare their everyday realities with others’ polished online personas. This distorted comparison fosters feelings of inadequacy, even among high-performing individuals. For instance, a student who is performing well academically may still feel inferior after seeing peers announce scholarships or competition victories online. Such comparisons gradually erode self-esteem.

Secondly, constant upward comparison produces a persistent sense of restlessness and dissatisfaction. When individuals believe others are always experiencing something better, they struggle to appreciate their present circumstances. Even during enjoyable moments, attention may shift toward what might be happening elsewhere. This mindset prevents genuine contentment and creates a cycle of perpetual longing. Over time, this psychological pattern can contribute to anxiety, burnout, and emotional exhaustion, as individuals feel pressured to keep up with unrealistic standards.

Ultimately, moderate comparison can inspire self-improvement. However, motivation rooted in insecurity and fear is rarely sustainable. Instead of fostering healthy ambition, FOMO often traps individuals in an endless cycle of comparison and self-doubt.

In conclusion, although FOMO may occasionally encourage short-term effort, it predominantly fuels chronic dissatisfaction through relentless upward social comparison. In an era dominated by digital connectivity, learning to resist this comparison trap is essential for maintaining psychological well-being.