Do you suffer from surf fomo?
Surf FOMO is a real thing. It’s the nagging feeling that hits you when the surf is pumping but you’re stuck at the office with no option but to ditch it all for a few waves.
Surf FOMO can often bring out a bunch of negative feelings, ranging from frustration to restlessness, jealousy and, in severe cases, a complete reassessment of your entire life and career choices. So let’s address the issue real quick before you make the irreversible impulsive decision to quit your job, move to the Ments and become a surf guide:
DO avoid FOMO-inducing social media apps like Facebook and Instagram. If need be, block those friends who spend their days surfing and posting photos of their awesome surf sessions “from where you’d rather be.” SO annoying.
DO unsubscribe from your local surf photographer’s newsletter. Do you really need to be reminded every single day of what you’ve missed out on? Trust me, this guy will make you quit your job before you know it and make a decision you’ll likely regret. So, hit unsubscribe now.
DON’T take your anger out on your workmates. Many of them may not even surf and probably have real-life problems to deal with. They shouldn’t have to put up with your fits of surf FOMO. Period.
DO skateboard to work. It’s the closest it gets to riding waves, plus you know it helps improve your surfing.
DON’T seek consolation in food. You want to make sure you’re fit for the next time you hit the surf or go on a surf trip.
DO indulge yourself in other ways. If you can’t surf hard, shop hard. Go online and treat yourself to some rad new gear: board, wetsuit, surf bikini… anything to cheer yourself up.
DO try meditation at work–Head Space is an awesome app–or alternatively, you can try mind surfing.
DON’T question your career choice. If you do, remind yourself the reason you’re stuck at the office right now is because this job gives you the best compromise between financial stability and life goal achievements. If it accomplishes neither of these, maybe it’s not a bad idea to question yourself.
DO start planning your next surf trip. We all know how big a task it is. Already have a trip planned? Look into booking a spot at a surf training camp to take your surfing to the next level.
DO reach out to friends who you know are going through surf FOMO too. Think of it like an addiction rehab sponsor to lean on.
DO remind yourself of the last time you scored perfect waves. Can’t remember any good sessions? Check the forecast and plan to take a day off ahead of time to revitalize.
DO stream ‘CT events at work. It’s the best way to cope when stuck in the office as it will keep you up to date with what’s happening in the sport and industry, keeping you plugged in.
You can also experience Surf FOMO on different occasions. Here are some other times when life gets in the way of a good surf and how to remedy each one:
- You’re on parent duty: It’s a no-brainer. Call your parents and ask them look after your baby(ies). If grandparents are not an option, then build up a team of non-surfing nannies and make sure there’s always one that’s on call.
- You’re injured: I’m not going to lie, this one’s really challenging. Get ready for a double hit of #FOMO and #FML and try and see it as an opportunity to test your patience. Be sure to have a stack of surf movies ready.
- You’re on a holiday somewhere inland: Ok, let’s make a rule that you’re not allowed to complain about surf FOMO when you’re on a holiday. Shake yourself up and keep yourself busy with other cool activities.
- You’re on boyfriend/girlfriend duty: This was a trick comment. If you ever feel like you’re “on duty” with your partner you should probably be packing your bags already anyway.
On any other occasions, remind yourself things could always be worse.
Do you want to know one good thing about surf FOMO though? It will make you a lot more appreciative next time you get waves.
Editor’s Note: To follow more of the author’s awesome adventures around the world, see her blog here. And find Kaloea on Instagram, here.
