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Take a page (or don’t) from the Gen Z birthday book
On TikTok, Gen Z-ers are rewriting the birthday rulebook, with guidelines ranging from a 7-shot minimum to banning salads for dinner. For instance, 24-year-old Deandre Brown suggests that the birthday person should foot the entire dinner bill, while comedian Daniela Mora, at 25, playfully casts herself as Cinderella on her special day. These viral rules, however, spark discussions beyond birthdays, touching on social classes, friendships, and the toxicity of social media.
All for social media
Comparing past birthday celebrations to today’s Gen Z celebrations, there is a shift from spontaneous fun to orchestrated moments for social media. Birthdays have become a part of a quest for content. A Forbes report reveals that 4.9 billion people worldwide use social media in 2023, turning platforms into spaces not only for sharing birthday ideas but also for projecting a seemingly “perfect life.”
Unpacking controversial rules
The controversy surrounding birthday rules might stem from entitlement, suggests wellness content creator Aley Arion. The 27-year-old notes that when surrounded by supportive friends, expectations are understood, but past letdowns can lead to stringent rules. A YouGov survey shows that 47% feel neutral about birthdays, but letdowns can spiral into birthday blues, with symptoms like isolation and crying.
Impact of social media on birthday blues
While social media can provide temporary satisfaction with likes and recognition, anthropologist Daniel Miller warns that it often replaces genuine celebration with a quest for online acknowledgment. The glorification of extravagant lifestyles on birthdays, especially among influencers, may fuel envy and unhealthy comparisons. Influencers earning millions contribute to setting unrealistic expectations, leading to lower self-esteem, depression, and anxiety.
Taking the drama out
Will birthday culture revert to simplicity or remain social media-centric? Comedian Jasmine Ellis suggests starting with intentional connections, avoiding the pressure of large gatherings. Aley Arion, advocating for drama-free birthdays, emphasizes setting clear rules for guests and cherishing the day in a way that aligns with personal values.
As Gen Z navigates the evolving landscape of birthday celebrations, the real question becomes: will birthdays become a genuine celebration of individuals or a spectacle for social media validation?
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