Regardless of which generation you belong to, everyone looks forward to Saturday. This is especially true for working people, as the joy of the weekend felt on Saturday evening often differs from that felt on Sunday. After returning from work on Friday, people plan to spend two days in tranquility.
There is a long-standing culture where after five days of work, people organize rest and entertainment on the weekend. Ways to enjoy the weekend vary for everyone: some watch movies, some dine with family, and some cook their favorite food at home to music.
However, unlike millennials and previous generations who preferred spending weekends outside the home, Generation Z has chosen the opposite path. They strive to enjoy the weekend by staying at home. Instead of planning parties or dinners every week, Gen Z representatives prefer to spend these two days as they are comfortable, in relaxed pajamas.
When plans for friends' parties or stories from clubs appear on social media, watching a favorite series at home in pajamas used to be considered 'boring.' But Gen Z has changed this perception. Now, attending events outside the home or participating in all plans is not a mandatory condition. If you want to stay home, eat something delicious, and watch your favorite series all night, it is not considered a missed opportunity.
This shift represents a movement from FOMO (Fear Of Missing Out) to JOMO (Joy Of Missing Out). Instead of feeling anxious while watching others have fun, Gen Z finds happiness in their own peace. While other generations may waver between FOMO and JOMO, Gen Z's opinion is clear: JOMO is always.
It is important to understand that JOMO does not mean antisocial behavior; it is more about prioritizing one's own preferences and comfort. Gen Z constantly rejects the culture of accepting every invitation and going out. Time with friends has its place, but it is also important to sometimes be alone, rest, or do what you like. After all, not all happiness is found in a crowd; some peace can be found in your room, watching your favorite series in pajamas, listening to music, or pursuing a hobby.
Sometimes the best party is the one you don't attend. When your plan instead of going out is pajamas, a favorite series, and peace at home. For Gen Z, missing out is not FOMO, but JOMO.