Forget the FOMO

Should something’s value be given based on what we perceive others think of it?

When I was at the Sip ‘N Stroll art fair as a vendor several weeks ago, I noticed something I thought was strange. It was every time I had a visitor in the booth, the other people walking by would stop in. If no one was there, it seemed that more people passed without taking a second look.

All day long this was the case. I either had no one, or several in there at once. Why do you think this is? I think it’s because we want what we think others want. It’s FOMO - Fear Of Missing Out. But my art is just as valuable or not whether thousands are looking at it or none. I mean, it’s the same art, right?

It’s why celebrities can sell mosquitos in honey if they want. They are celebrities so surely what they are selling is good. Nah, not really. I think we are all, for lack of a better word, brainwashed with thinking we must have what others want. And the only reason others want it is because they think others want it. It’s a little crazy I know, but there is truth here.

When you go shopping online, do you often go to the “best seller” items? I’ll admit, I do sometimes. I want to know what other people are buying. If lots of people are buying it, it must be good. Well, not necessarily. So I challenge you and me, as we go through this shopping season, let’s look at items for what they are and not because we think they are popular. Let’s really take a look at whatever it is that we are buying and get it because WE like it. Don’t let the popularity of the seller or the item make you latch on to it just because you think - well everyone else is getting one.

Just something to think about…

Sending my best,

Connie