Have you ever opened social media and seen a classmate landing their dream internship, starting a cool side hustle, or even getting into a top-tier college program? That sinking feeling in your stomach? That’s career FOMO. It’s hard not to compare yourself to others and wonder if you’re falling behind. But here’s the truth no one tells you: everyone’s timeline is different. What you see online is often just the highlight reel, not the struggles behind the scenes. Feeling left out or behind in your career is normal, but it doesn’t have to control you. With the right mindset and strategies, you can turn career FOMO into motivation without letting it steal your joy. Here’s how.

Recognize the Highlight Reel Effect

First things first, remind yourself that what people post online is not the whole story. Social media shows the best moments, not the full picture. That internship your friend got? They probably applied to 20 places before landing that one. Or the person who started a business? They may deal with long nights and setbacks you’ll never see on Instagram.

Remember, success isn’t always as effortless as it seems. No one’s going to post about the times they failed, doubted themselves, or struggled with stress. It’s easy to assume your classmates are paving perfect paths to success, but in reality, they’re facing their own challenges. You’re not walking the same road as anyone else, so comparing yourself to their highlight reel is like comparing apples to oranges.

Stay Focused on Your Own Journey

Think about where you want to go and what matters to you, not other people’s goals or achievements. Are you interested in design, engineering, or helping animals? Instead of thinking about where you “should” be based on what others are doing, focus on the skills, experiences, and connections that will help you reach your goals.

Set small, realistic goals for yourself, whether that’s joining a club related to your interests, volunteering, or learning a new skill online. Progress often comes from consistent baby steps, not giant leaps. By aiming for growth over comparison, you’ll feel less stressed and more in control of your own path.

Understand That Timing Is Different for Everyone

Here’s a secret you don’t learn in school: there’s no single timeline for success. Some people figure out their career direction early, while others discover what they really love much later. And that’s okay!

For example, you might have a friend who lands their dream internship at 18, but another classmate might not figure out their passion until their 20s. Time doesn’t take away from success. Timing is all about what works for you. Think about well-known creators, entrepreneurs, and artists who succeeded at different stages of their lives. Oprah Winfrey didn’t become who she is overnight, and neither will you. Trust your timeline.

Take Breaks From Social Media

Social media can sometimes make you feel like you’re falling behind, even when you’re making great progress. If scrolling through endless posts of people’s accomplishments leaves you feeling drained or anxious, it might be time to take a break. You don’t have to delete your accounts for good, but cutting back even for a few days can help you clear your head.

Use the time you’d spend scrolling to do something that excites or relaxes you. Read a book, try a new hobby, take a walk, or spend time with friends without the pressure of comparing yourself to anyone else. When you return to social media, you’ll feel less overwhelmed and more focused on your goals.

Talk About It With Someone You Trust

You don’t have to deal with career FOMO alone. Talking about your feelings with someone can help you process them and find solutions. A friend, family member, teacher, or school counselor may offer fresh perspectives and remind you that your feelings are valid.

Sometimes, saying things out loud helps you move past the negativity. The person you talk to might even have similar experiences or helpful tips for dealing with FOMO. Everyone faces doubts about their career at some point, so you’re definitely not alone in this.

Learn to See Failure Differently

Another reason career FOMO hits hard is that we sometimes view success too narrowly. If all you’re focused on is a straight, perfect path, then taking a detour or hitting an obstacle might feel like you’ve failed, but that couldn’t be further from the truth.

Failures, mistakes, and even unplanned breaks are part of learning. They help you discover what works for you and what doesn’t. Your classmate’s life might look perfect now, but you don’t see how they’ve fallen short or had to pivot behind the scenes. Give yourself permission to grow through setbacks.

Create a Gratitude Habit

One great way to stop career FOMO in its tracks? Practice gratitude. It might sound cheesy, but it works. Take five minutes a day to write down what you’re thankful for. It could be anything from a good grade on a tough test to a fun moment you shared with friends.

When you focus on what’s going right in your life, it’s easier to quiet the comparisons about what others are doing. Gratitude shifts your attention to the bigger picture and reminds you how far you’ve come.

Celebrate Others Without Comparing

Seeing classmates succeed doesn’t mean you’re falling behind. Everyone can win at their own pace. Instead of comparing, celebrate their victories. Congratulate them genuinely and wish them the best. Their success doesn’t take away from your potential.

When you cheer others on, you build stronger connections and create room for a positive attitude to take root. Sometimes, showing kindness to others makes it easier to show kindness to yourself.

Remember, It’s Okay to Not Have It All Figured Out

It’s important to remind yourself that you're not supposed to have every detail of your future planned out right now. High school and college are stages where you explore what excites you, what interests you, and what doesn’t. Even people who seem like they’re ahead are still figuring things out.

Your path is meant for you. Give yourself the grace to explore, try, and keep learning without the pressure of perfection. Career FOMO will come and go, but your potential and ability to create a fulfilling life are always in your hands.