Birthday Celebrations – Love ‘em or Leave ‘em?

Are you the kind of person that loves being the center of attention or do you shirk away from all the eyes on you? Does this change when it is your birthday?

I know (as I am sure you do) people from both camps. I personally uncomfortably squirm, when the focus is on me, on my birthday or any other day. It was my birthday last month and for many years I came to work like any other day, and hoped that no one made a big deal about it. However, last year I started a new tradition…I treat myself to a holiday. This serves two purposes for me:

1 - I go on holiday (and who doesn’t love that?)

2 – I get to spend it with a few select people but not feel overwhelmed with all the attention

This year I came back to find that my desk had been covered in streamers and balloons! So much for my plan of escaping attention. I surprised myself with the realization that it felt good to be remembered. Even though my birthday had already passed, my friends at work had taken the time to decorate my desk and make me feel special.

I suggest that the next time someone tells you that they don’t want to celebrate their birthday, consider finding a low key way to let them know that they are special to you. I’m not saying you should ignore what they are asking for (please don’t do that!) but perhaps put pen to paper and write it in a card, take them on a coffee date or go for a walk together. After all:

"The more you praise and celebrate your life, the more there is in life to celebrate."

~ Oprah Winfrey