We Can Do Hard Things cover image

We Can Do Hard Things

275. Why Do Birthdays Bring So Many Feels??

Jan 25, 2024
53:57
Snipd AI
The podcast explores the complexities of birthdays, including the disappointment they can bring, the mixed emotions they evoke, and the expectations and comparisons that come with them. The hosts share their best and worst birthday stories and discuss strategies for making birthdays better and finding validation in other ways.
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Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Birthdays can be complicated due to expectations and comparisons, so it's important to have open communication about desires and create meaningful experiences throughout the year.
  • Understanding the historical and cultural context of birthdays can help shed light on why they can be emotionally charged events, allowing us to reframe expectations and focus on what truly brings joy.

Deep dives

Celebrating Birthdays with Gratitude and Understanding

Birthdays can be complicated and overwhelming for many people. The origin of birthdays can be traced back to ancient times when it was believed that protective spirits or demons were present at a person's birth. Over time, birthdays became linked to expectations, comparisons, and existential dread. The pressure to feel happy and celebrated on one's birthday can lead to disappointment and anxiety. To make birthdays less miserable, it is important to have open communication about expectations and desires. Instead of focusing on material gifts, consider creating meaningful experiences throughout the year. Recognize that birthdays are a time when intense emotions may arise, and practice gratitude for the people who make you feel seen and loved. By shifting the perspective and embracing the complexities of birthdays, it is possible to find more satisfaction and meaning in these annual milestones.

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