Why Leaders Need More JOMO (Not FOMO)

August 19, 2025 / Jo Ilfeld, PhD /
carmel work vacation 1

So many of us fear missing out and are always ON — making sure we are in on key meetings, following the latest trends, reading the latest articles in our field of expertise…the list goes on.

But lately, I’ve been leaning into the antithesis of FOMO, namely JOMO – the Joy of Missing Out – and it might be the leadership edge you didn’t know you needed.

I found it last week… on a work vacation in Carmel.


Yes, I still worked. But I also walked my dog on the beach and around town between calls. I ate lunch in the sun (instead of skipping it completely or eating at my desk). I paused long enough to feel the day unfolding and to feel moments of joy.

Yet, I got plenty done—but without the constant pressure to be “on.”

Doing less might be the answer. And you may find that you end up being both productive AND happy in the same day.

READ MORE: 5 Steps to Great Leadership

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Jo Ilfeld, PhD

An executive leadership coach, Jo helps C-suite leaders, executives, and high-potential managers develop the flexibility, skill, and frame of mind to meet the challenges of the next five, ten, twenty years…. and beyond. She works with individuals, teams and organizations on four core areas of leadership development. Check out Jo's bio page for more information.

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