Missing Out on the Coldplay Concert in Manila and FOMO

This month, a lot of us are experiencing feelings FOMO (fear of missing out) because of the Coldplay - A Head Full of Dreams Tour.

For me, it began last week when folks watched in Singapore (tickets were cheaper). It continued to last night when Coldplay played in SM Mall of Asia Concert Grounds. Pictures and videos of the concert are all over social media. Those who did not go tweet about envy and regret (like me!). Seeing the Explore section on Instagram today, Chris Martin's face was all over because local celebrities and insta-famous individuals also went last night.

I'm expecting to still be bombarded of Coldplay videos all the way to next week because they're playing next in Bangkok, Taipei, Seoul, Tokyo. Those on a Coldplay "high" will still be #latergramming it until next week.

Filipinos have touted this concert as "once-in-a-lifetime". How could we not? Fans have been anticipating this, probably, for a decade already. We also don't know if and when they are coming back. This just further exacerbates the FOMO-ness of it all.

I'm sure majority of the population is mature enough to handle this. But for the sake of sharing feelings and tips on how to deal with it, read below.

1. Acknowledge Negative Feelings

Whenever there are negative emotions, don't be in denial. Acknowledge that they're present and wallow in it. It's not healthy to deny your negative feelings. Your friends went without you? It's OK. You're not alone. Many of us are fans and we feel you.

2. Stand By Your Decision

While feeling the FOMO, take responsibility for your decision. Look back to why you did not buy tickets. For me, I thought it was too expensive. I don't like concerts where there are no seats and open air. I don't like having to go all the way to MOA Arena on a weeknight. I also don't think concerts are worth it if you're not somewhere in front. I also don't like crowds. What was your reason? Think back.

3. Don't Mock the People Who Post

Part of taking responsibility is not blaming those who did go for your negative feelings. Let them post as much as they want. Don't mock them for posting too much. Those who went to see Coldplay spent a fortune on it so let them revel in it.

Remember, this too shall pass. It's not forever. The desire is only magnified because it's all over social media. Next month, the hype will be gone. 

As long as Coldplay isn't retiring, there will still be another one in the future. Maybe not in the Philippines, but you'll get your chance. You'll get a chance to tick Coldplay off your bucket list.

P.S. Someone posted the full concert of Coldplay A Head of Full Dreams on Youtube! It's from 2016 in the US. Para hindi ka na "miss out".