Do you have FOBO? Here are the keys to knowing if you fear becoming obsolete

In the age of artificial intelligence and automation, more and more people feel the pressure to keep up with technological advancements. This fear, known as FOBO (Fear of Becoming Obsolete), manifests as the concern of not being able to keep up in the workplace due to new technologies. According to a Gallup survey, 22% of U.S. workers already experience this anxiety, representing a 7% increase since 2021.

The impact of artificial intelligence on work

The widespread adoption of artificial intelligence and automation has brought profound changes to the labor market. It is estimated that 20% of employees will need to be continuously trained to adapt to the new requirements imposed by these technologies. This scenario highlights the importance of constantly updating professional skills to avoid falling behind in a rapidly evolving world.

Companies like TRC are taking a proactive role in mitigating FOBO. By anticipating technological trends and offering advanced tools, TRC ensures that its clients, both businesses and employees, can face the challenges posed by technology and take advantage of the opportunities it offers.

5 keys to identifying if you have FOBO

If you’re wondering if you’re experiencing FOBO, here are five clear signs that you might be suffering from this fear:

• Anxiety about staying up to date with new technologies: If you feel an urgent need to learn about the latest advancements and fear being uninformed, you might be experiencing FOBO.
• Fear that your skills will become obsolete: If you worry that what you know today may not be relevant tomorrow, this is a sign of FOBO. This fear drives you to constantly improve your skills.
• Avoidance of new technologies for fear of not mastering them: Even if you are interested in technology, the fear of not understanding or using new tools properly can paralyze you.
• Information overload on technology: Feeling overwhelmed by the amount of technological information and not knowing where to start is another clear manifestation of FOBO.
• Constant comparison with others: If you frequently compare yourself with colleagues or friends, and this creates insecurity about your level of technological knowledge, you may be suffering from FOBO.

Identifying these signs is key to managing this fear and preventing it from affecting your well-being. It’s not about mastering every new technology but about maintaining a flexible and open mindset toward change.