My name is Oscar and I have GAM (Guitar Acquisition Mania), commonly known as Polyguitaritis 😂. Owning a collection of guitars is a dream come true for many musicians. Each instrument holds its unique charm, tone, and feel, offering endless possibilities for creativity. However, having multiple guitars can sometimes lead to an unexpected feeling: anxiety. This anxiety often stems from the Fear of Missing Out (FOMO), the sense that by choosing to play one guitar, you’re missing out on the experiences the others could offer. In this article, I’ll explore the concept of FOMO, how it can manifest in guitar collections, and ways to cope with this feeling.

The Joy and Dilemma of Owning Multiple Guitars

For any guitarist, owning a collection of guitars is a source of pride. Each guitar may have been carefully chosen for its unique sound, playability, or sentimental value. One might be perfect for blues, another for jazz, and yet another for hard rock. The variety is a gateway to musical exploration and expression.

But here’s the catch: when you have several guitars, the act of choosing which one to play can become a dilemma. Instead of enjoying the instrument in your hands, you might start thinking about the others. You wonder if you’d be getting a better tone from the Les Paul, or if your Telecaster would give you that extra twang you’re after. This is where the Fear of Missing Out sneaks in.

FOMO and Its Connection to Your Guitar Collection

FOMO is commonly associated with social media, where people fear missing out on events, experiences, or connections. But it can also apply to material possessions, especially those we hold dear, like guitars. The anxiety arises from the thought that, by engaging with one option, you’re losing out on the potential joy the others could bring.

In the context of a guitar collection, FOMO might manifest as a persistent worry that you’re not giving enough attention to each instrument. You might feel a pang of guilt when you realize it’s been weeks since you last played that beautiful Stratocaster that used to be your go-to guitar. Even worse, you might feel paralyzed by choice, leading to less playing time overall because you can’t decide which guitar to pick up.

Real-Life Examples of FOMO in Guitar Collections

Let’s take the example of a guitarist who owns ten guitars, each with a different character and purpose. Every time they sit down to practice or compose, they’re confronted with the decision: which guitar should I use today?

One day, they might pick up their semi-hollow body guitar for its warm, resonant tone. But as they play, a thought nags at the back of their mind—should they have chosen the solid-body electric instead? Maybe it would have offered a sharper, more defined sound for the riffs they’re working on. This lingering doubt distracts from the enjoyment of playing and can even cut the session short as they swap guitars, searching for the “perfect” sound.

Another scenario involves a guitarist who has invested in a high-end acoustic guitar, only to feel torn every time they play it because their vintage electric hasn’t been touched in weeks. The guilt of neglecting one guitar for another builds up, turning what should be a joyful experience into a source of stress.

Coping with FOMO and Guitar-Related Anxiety

So, how can you manage these feelings and get back to the joy of playing? Here are some strategies:

1. Rotate Your Guitars Regularly: Create a schedule where each guitar gets its time in the spotlight. This ensures that all your instruments are being played and appreciated, reducing the feeling of neglect.

2. Focus on the Music, Not the Instrument: Shift your mindset from thinking about the guitar to thinking about the music. Remind yourself that it’s not about which guitar you’re playing, but what you’re playing on it. Every instrument has something unique to offer, so embrace the one you’re with.

3. Limit Your Collection: While it might be tempting to keep acquiring new guitars, consider capping your collection. This doesn’t mean selling off your prized possessions, but being mindful of how many guitars you realistically have time to play.

4. Practice Gratitude: When you pick up a guitar, take a moment to appreciate it. Think about why you bought it in the first place and what you love about it. This can help you reconnect with the instrument and reduce feelings of FOMO.

5. Embrace the Diversity: Instead of seeing your collection as a source of anxiety, view it as a palette of colors. Each guitar offers something different, and that diversity is a gift. By changing your perspective, you can turn the fear of missing out into an appreciation of what you have.

Conclusion: Finding Peace in Your Collection

Owning multiple guitars should be a source of joy, not anxiety. By understanding how FOMO can influence your feelings and taking proactive steps to manage it, you can reconnect with the reasons you fell in love with each instrument in the first place. Remember, the goal isn’t to play all your guitars all the time, but to enjoy the one you’re playing right now. In the end, it’s not about missing out—it’s about making the most of what you have, one note at a time.