During Lent forget FOMO, it’s all about JOMO

As we start Lent, writer Sophie Sanders reflects on the rise of JOMO – the joy of missing out – as a timely antidote to our culture’s obsession with comparison, busyness, and constant connection. From social expectations to spiritual rhythms, she explores how choosing to miss out can become a life-giving, deeply biblical practice that leads to greater joy and freedom.

It’s 22 years since FOMO was first recognised by the Oxford Dictionary and at long last its antidote, JOMO – the joy of missing out – is getting airtime and entering common parlance. And I’m here for it. Freed from the clutches of comparison, JOMO is the art of enjoying disconnection from social demands, finding contentment in solitude, and intentionally making decisions that will support your wellbeing, even if they don’t conform to societal expectations.

For any introverts reading, this might sound delightful: the idea of night after night in your own company is the dream. But, perhaps to my surprise, as an exuberant social butterfly, I’m a JOMO convert. Yes, the concept of enjoying prolonged periods of time by myself baffles me. But I can get on board with embracing unplugged weekends, wearing not-quite-on-trend clothes that feel authentically me, and having the confidence to say no to clubbing, organised fun, and other things that fill me with dread. And as I approach the big 3 0, I see these choices as signs that I’m no longer bound by the opinions and expectations of others. Gone are the days of trying to be one of the cool kids; I’m now in my era of choosing what I want from life and how I want to live it – and I’m happier for it.