Zoom Meeting: OCPD & FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) 👀

Prompt: What is FOMO and how it might affect individuals with OCPD?

FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) is a psychological phenomenon where individuals feel anxious or distressed about the possibility that others are having rewarding experiences without them. It’s strongly tied to social comparison, perfectionistic expectations, and an internal pressure to always be doing the “right” or “best” thing. In the digital age, FOMO is intensified by constant exposure to others’ curated highlights—social media feeds full of accomplishments, travels, relationships, and productivity. This can create a persistent belief that one should be achieving more, connecting more, or participating more to avoid being left behind.

For individuals with Obsessive-Compulsive Personality Disorder (OCPD), FOMO can be uniquely challenging. People with OCPD already struggle with rigid standards, an intense need for control, and chronic self-criticism. They often believe there is a single ideal path or correct choice, and any deviation from that optimal path can feel like failure. FOMO taps directly into these vulnerabilities by creating pressure to ensure that every decision is the most productive, efficient, or socially valuable. This can lead to overthinking and paralysis—if there are multiple appealing possibilities, the fear of choosing the “wrong” option may prevent choosing altogether.

FOMO can also strain relationships for people with OCPD. They may feel compelled to say yes to commitments, opportunities, and responsibilities—regardless of personal bandwidth—because declining might risk missing something important or damaging their reputation. This can lead to burnout, resentment, or distancing from others due to overstretching themselves.

Additionally, OCPD’s strong focus on duty and achievement might make social or leisure-related FOMO feel especially guilt-provoking. If others are having fun or building community, the individual may feel torn between productivity and presence, never fully satisfied with either. Even when included in enjoyable experiences, they may worry they should be somewhere else achieving more.

Over time, FOMO can worsen anxiety, decision-avoidance, perfectionism, and dissatisfaction—core struggles of OCPD. It can interrupt genuine enjoyment and reduce the ability to rest, explore creativity, or follow intrinsic interests. Moments of stillness may be invaded by mental comparisons and a sense of being behind.

Countering FOMO for someone with OCPD often involves strengthening internal values rather than external metrics—learning to choose based on personal meaning instead of imagined judgment. When individuals can trust their own priorities and accept that no single path defines success or worthiness, the fear of missing out gradually transforms into the freedom of missing out: peace in choosing what matters most.