5. What is FOPO?

Here is a FOPO Template you are welcome to use.

Fear Of People’s Opinions

Most of us have heard of FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) but have you heard of FOPO (Fear of People’s Opinions)?

FOPO (Fear of People’s Opinions) is a term used by Michael Gervais, PhD, a peak performance psychologist who has an excellent podcast called Finding Mastery. I was listening to his podcast interview with Tom Bauer on “The Art of Managing Fear” when he introduced the term FOPO. Instantly I could relate to FOPO, as I’ve often wondered why I worry so much about what other people think, along with how it causes me to second guess myself and my confidence to plummet. Like many others I have a dread that people will think poorly of me and it fills me with the feelings of shame and embarrassment.

From learning about FOPO these are a few takeaways.

Feeling FOPO is part of being a social human and we evolved this because it helps us ‘pull our heads in’ and think of our impact on others and the greater good of the group.

It is a problem when it limits our potential and stops us being the best version of ourselves we can be. This happens when we are preoccupied with what others think rather than focusing on our own strengths, talents, values and beliefs.

Be mindful. Notice if and when you experience FOPO so you know what triggers the feeling.

Breathe. This creates a pause, much like when using the THINK strategy which allows us to interrupt and question our pattern of thinking.

Accept. At the end of day we can’t control what others think. All we can do is be kind and do the best we can.

Redirect. Where focus goes energy flows. Focus on what you want, not what you don’t want. Practice Attentional Control (mindfulness helps here).

For more information here is a link to a Michael Gervais article “How to Stop Worrying About What Other People Think of You”.