Being born near the holiday season might seem special, but it often winds up quite the opposite. As the season approaches, cheer and happiness fill the minds of people around the world. What’s frequently forgotten is the overwhelming stress of holiday preparations leading up to the magical day.
Combined Gifts
Sharing a birthday with the holidays can lead to lots of different challenges and disappointments. One of the most common issues includes the idea of combining gifts. As the clock ticks, family and friends struggle to make time for all the necessary holiday shopping. It leaves them feeling overwhelmed and stretched thin. Due to this, people might decide to get a gift that covers both occasions. From the gift giver’s perspective, this might seem like the most logical choice. Not only does it save time with holiday shopping, but it also saves money. On the downside, gift receivers are left feeling undervalued. The excitement of receiving individual gifts vanishes into thin air, along with the uniqueness of carefully choosing items tailored to specific interests.
Situations like this make it hard to view your day as more than an afterthought. More than another passing day on the fridge calendar. The anticipation that builds around a birthday is so easily replaced with resignation, knowing that the focus will be split.
While this is the outcome for many, some families make a point of celebrating each special day separately. For Salvatore Cerchio, head of the English department at Colonia High School, his parents always made his birthday feel special. When interviewed, Cerchio said, “Growing up, my mother made sure my brother and I had cake and a small party with friends a week before Christmas, leaving room to celebrate the holidays as well.” He added that, thanks to his parents’ efforts, he never minded that his birthday fell near the holidays.
Loss of Attention
Another major downside is that the celebration often loses attention. In December, people around the world focus so much on Christmas that birthdays get overlooked.. Between planning parties, decorating homes, attending festive events, and preparing for family gatherings, there’s not much room left to breathe. Planning a birthday party can easily get lost in the holiday rush. Fewer guests can attend because of conflicting holiday commitments, and restaurants often overbook during the season. No matter how much effort goes into making the party enjoyable, the stress of planning can overshadow the celebration before it even begins.
Overshadowed Celebration
Another major downside is that the celebration often loses attention. In December, people around the world focus so much on Christmas that birthdays get overlooked. Planning parties, decorating homes, attending events, and preparing for gatherings often turn the season into a stressful experience. Holiday preparations can make it difficult for people to attend birthday parties, causing hosts to hear many apologies and explanations from guests. Situations like this makes the birthday celebrant feel less special or important. 10-year-old Emily Santos, born Dec. 13, said, “So many of my guests cannot attend my birthday party because of Christmas plans. It makes me sad not to spend my birthday with my friends.” Lots of people Santo’s age and older agree with her statement. Even when people carefully plan a party, they often struggle to enjoy it without loved ones around. Many venues close during the holiday season, which further limits birthday celebrations. Even when venues are open, decorations, music, and conversations often revolve around Christmas instead.
Emotional Toll
Beyond the challenges of the hustle and bustle, there’s also an emotional toll that takes place. It’s very easy to feel like your birthday is less significant, celebrated, and appreciated than those born during other times throughout the year. The constant association with Christmas and other holidays can make this time feel less unique and valued. The birthday wishes are often followed by a “happy holiday” further blurring the lines between the different occasions. Overtime this makes the birthday celebrant put in less effort when celebrating their special day. While the holiday season brings joy, people with birthdays near this time often navigate a mix of emotions.
