We’ve all been there — that feeling of urgency, when everything seems to be moving at a fast pace, and you just want to catch up. A few months ago, I had an experience that perfectly encapsulates the dangers of rushing into decisions because of the fear of missing out, or FOMO. It wasn’t in the stock market, but in a seemingly innocent situation: taking the bus.
It was a typical busy day. I was heading to my friend’s place in Deccan Bommanahalli, and I was waiting at Silkboard bus stand. In my hurry, I boarded a 360 number bus that seemed to be heading in the right direction, but in reality, it was headed somewhere entirely different — straight towards Electronic City through flyover where i cannot get down in middle of 10 kms straight, and went far from my destination. After realizing my mistake, I had to disembark and catch another bus to my friend’s place, losing valuable time and money. This seemingly small mistake was a big lesson in why rushing into things without thinking can lead you in the wrong direction.
This story mirrors my experience with FOMO in the stock market.
“A few months ago, I found myself staring at my phone screen, watching as a stock I had been eyeing for weeks surged to new highs every week. Everyone around me seemed to be making money, posting their success stories, and I felt same – the fear of missing out. In that moment, I decided to make my move. But little did I know, that decision would be a lesson in how FOMO can wreck even the most well-intentioned investing strategies.”
Stock name was Kalyan Jewellers
i bought around 700 and started to think strategically that wedding season has begun and till next May , stock will move strongly upwards but ended losing 300 per share when i sold in febraury.
In the stock market, FOMO can manifest when you see others talking about a stock’s rise, sharing screenshots of their portfolios, or posting success stories. You think, “I have to get in now, or I’ll miss the chance!” But without a clear strategy or solid reasoning, these snap decisions can lead to unwanted outcomes.
Conclusion:
My experience at Silkboard was a small but powerful reminder that rushing into decisions, whether it’s catching the wrong bus or investing in the wrong stock, often leads to unwanted outcomes. FOMO can be a powerful force, but the key to long-term success — in both travel and investing — is to stay calm, do your research, and follow your own path.
Just as I eventually found my way to Deccan Bommanahalli after a few detours, your investment journey is filled with opportunities. Don’t let FOMO lead you off course.