Ever find yourself feeling financially inadequate after scrolling through social media? You're not alone. Financial FOMO—the fear of missing out when comparing your money situation to others—affects nearly everyone, but it can lead to decisions that derail your financial future.

As we explore in this episode, humans are naturally wired to compare ourselves against others. The problem intensifies with social media, where we only see the highlight reels—the new cars, fancy vacations, and investment wins—without glimpsing the complete financial picture beneath the surface. What looks like success might actually be hiding massive debt, empty bank accounts, or financial anxiety.

I share my personal experience with financial peer pressure: backing out of buying a practical minivan because someone made fun of me, only to regret it for years afterward. This story illustrates how allowing others' opinions to influence our financial decisions often leads to choices that don't align with our actual needs and values. The question isn't "What do others have that I don't?" but rather "What do I truly want and need?"

To combat financial FOMO, try these practical strategies: limit your social media scrolling, celebrate your own financial milestones (like paying off debt), automate your savings and investments, and find your "money tribe"—people who share your financial values and priorities. Remember, when you see someone's flashy purchases online, you're only seeing the tip of the iceberg, not the potential financial stress hidden beneath.

Your financial journey is yours alone. Focus on your own scorecard and make your own garden grow. What financial goals are you working toward that matter to YOU?

Envision Financial Planning. 5100 Poplar Avenue, Suite 2428, Memphis, TN 38137. (901) 422-7526. This communication is strictly intended for individuals residing in the United States. Advisory Services offered through Envision Financial Planning, a Registered Investment Adviser.