Embracing the Night In
Why staying in might be exactly what you need.
by Sophie Abt ★ November 10th, 2025
Design by: Leah Sullivan
Do you ever feel a tiny bit of FOMO when your friends are getting ready for a night out, but all you want to do is stay home in sweats and watch your favorite comfort show? We have all been there. The pressure to always be doing something– going out, being social, and saying yes to things– can make taking a night for yourself feel wrong. Here’s the thing: sometimes, saying no is the best thing you can do for yourself. Welcome to the era of JOMO (the joy of missing out).
Why Busy Isn’t Always Better
In college, being busy is the “norm” for most students. Between classes, clubs, and trying to maintain a social life, taking a break can feel lazy or unproductive. Rest isn’t the opposite of productivity–it’s part of it. You can’t keep showing up as your best self when you are drained. A night in is your reset button.
When we take a breath to slow down, we make space for creativity, happiness, and peace. All of the things we’re usually chasing in the chaos. JOMO isn’t about avoiding life or saying no all of the time. It’s about embracing it differently and choosing yourself over exhaustion.
Celebrating the Calm
There’s something so perfect about the slow, cozy nights. Snuggling up in your bed, eating your favorite ice cream, and watching your comfort movie–that’s self-care in its simplest form. No loud music, no pressure to find the perfect outfit, and no having to put on a smile for everyone. Just you.
It is in those moments that we reconnect with ourselves. These quiet nights remind us that we don’t need external validation to feel good. It reminds us that we can create peace right at home. The true joy of missing out is realizing that staying isn’t missing out at all.
Getting Rest Is Productive Too
Let’s normalize rest as a power move. It’s not about “missing out,” it’s about checking in with yourself and how you are feeling. Choosing to spend a night in every once in a while doesn’t make you boring or less social–it makes you self-aware. You’re listening to what your body and mind need.
And you know what...
When you decide to go out next time, you’ll feel so much more energized, refreshed, and able to enjoy it.
The Bottom Line
So the next time you feel that internal battle between staying in and going out, remember this: your worth isn’t measured by how many plans you make, but by how well you take care of yourself. Embrace the JOMO and ditch the FOMO. Slow down and recharge every once in a while. You deserve it!
Edited by: Riana Desai