No one likes to fail, and an aversion to making mistakes isn't necessarily a problem. That disgust turns into fear, and that's okay as long as that fear doesn't prevent you from trying something or taking a risk (even a small one). When it comes to home improvement projects, this fear of “failing” can really hold him back from FOMU. Instead of trying a DIY project, you can hire an expensive professional to do something that you can easily do yourself. Or, even worse, you can make do with a space that doesn't meet your functional needs or style.
In the BHG 2024 DIY Trends Report, our researchers coined the term FOMU to describe the fears that prevent you from starting a project that will significantly enhance your enjoyment of your space. Read on to learn if you are suffering from FOMU and how to overcome it and DIY your dream home.
What is FOMU?
FOMU, or fear of messing up, is a condition in which you avoid doing DIY projects out of fear of failing or making costly or dangerous mistakes. Symptoms of FOMU include hiring professionals to do tasks that could easily be completed by yourself or avoiding projects altogether out of concern that attempting them could lead to disaster. Masu.
FOMU is widespread. His 2024 DIY Trends Report for BHG found that 70% of people admit to hiring a professional for fear of messing up. Their reasoning varies. Some people lack confidence in themselves to complete a project correctly, some worry that they will make a costly mistake, and some worry that their DIY efforts may have potentially dangerous consequences.
In severe cases, FOMU can occur in projects of all effort and experience levels, but there are some projects that are relatively FOMU-tolerant. According to our report, people enjoy DIY projects like creating holiday decorations, creating wall art, and replacing doorknobs. Painting, furniture upgrades, etc. If you thought all these projects felt relatively small, you'd be right. Creative projects and projects that produce maximum impact with minimum effort tend to be FOMU-resistant.
Of course, at the other end of the spectrum are projects that require more specialized skills or involve plumbing, electrical work, or extensive work. Examples include rewiring electrical wiring, replacing windows, installing new toilets, and laying new floors. Re-tile the bathroom.
With this type of project in mind, it's important to note that FOMU may be useful. If the project is beyond your competency level, involves potentially dangerous elements such as electricity, or if not completed properly could lead to a catastrophic event such as a fire or flood, be sure to hire experienced You will need to hire a qualified professional to complete the work. Even if you're frustrated that you can't complete the project yourself, you'll probably be satisfied with the outcome. Seventy-four percent of survey respondents reported that they had a great experience with an in-home professional, and 70 percent said they felt a sense of relief when working with an in-home professional. Leave the project to the professionals.
The important thing to remember about FOMU is that it doesn't prevent you from participating in all DIY projects. Instead, assess your ability level and identify DIY projects that you can safely complete. You might be surprised at how many projects you have on your to-do list and how exhilarating it feels when you complete a DIY project.
How to overcome FOMU
FOMU is especially useful when it prevents you from attempting a project that cannot be completed safely and successfully. But if it's stopping you from even trying out projects that you're capable of completing correctly, it's hurting you and preventing you from creating your dream home.
If you think you're suffering from FOMU, here are some tips to help you get over it and try your hand at DIY.
Think positively
Look at the benefits of going DIY. You'll save money, you'll feel a sense of pride and accomplishment for a job well done, and you'll be challenged to step out of your comfort zone and learn something new. These are just the benefits of the DIY process. At the end of the project, you can also enjoy the fruits of your labor. It could be a room painted your favorite color, or a new look for a bookshelf you've had for years.
keep motivation in mind
Remember what motivated you to consider the project in the first place. According to our report, the biggest motivations for home improvement projects are to make your home a great place to live, improve functionality, and feel proud of your home. Focusing on your motivations may be enough to overcome FOMU.
Let go of worst-case scenario thinking
It's true that some DIY projects can be costly or cause dangerous damage to your home if completed incorrectly. But many projects don't. Weigh the potential risks of the project you want to complete and be realistic. If a project truly does not cause long-term damage, FOMU may be unfounded even if it fails.
perform preparatory work
Many projects fail midway due to lack of planning. Set yourself up for success from the start by thoroughly researching your project, understanding what skills and abilities are required, and making sure you have all the necessary materials. By gathering everything you need in advance, you are much less likely to run into an unexpected problem that completely derails your project or increases the chance of failure.
Let's make a mess of ourselves
Give yourself permission to make mistakes on low-risk projects. Consider anti-FOMU projects like replacing or painting doorknobs. If you're feeling a little brave, you can try your hand at projects that the BHG 2024 DIY Trends Report calls “messy but fixable,'' such as reupholstering furniture, wallpapering, replacing light fixtures, wall-mounting and repairing TVs. It would be good too. A leaky faucet. Approach these projects with the mindset that even if you fail, your home will not come crashing down around you. You might be surprised at what you can accomplish.