The Affliction of Abundance: FOBO or the Fear of a Better Option

🌈 Abstract

The article discusses the concept of FOBO (Fear of a Better Option), which is the lesser-known cousin of FOMO (Fear of Missing Out). It explores how FOBO can sabotage decision-making processes, particularly when launching a new product and choosing the right tech stack.

🙋 Q&A

[01] The Concept of FOBO

1. What is FOBO and how does it differ from FOMO?

• FOBO (Fear of a Better Option) is the nagging question that prevents you from making a choice, as you worry that there might be a better option out there.
• FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) is a more well-known term, referring to the anxiety that an individual might have about missing out on an experience or opportunity.

2. Who is particularly prone to FOBO?

• Maximizers, who try to make an optimal decision by considering all possible options, are more prone to FOBO compared to satisficers, who simply try to find a solution that is good enough.

3. What are the consequences of FOBO?

• FOBO can lead to indecision, stress, and frustration, as well as regret after a decision has been made, as the individual continues to question whether it was the best option.

[02] Dealing with FOBO

1. Why is it difficult to make the "best" decision?

• The assumption of complete information is unrealistic, as we won't be able to have all the necessary information to make the "best" decision. It's often better to pick the most sensible option at the time, even if it means accepting some trade-offs.

2. How can one overcome FOBO?

• It's better to start working on FOBO with small, less stressful decisions, as the more important the decision, the harder it is to deal with FOBO.
• Recognizing that the future is unpredictable and making the best decision you can, while acknowledging that the future will tell its own story, can help overcome FOBO.