Age Differences • skylarnora • 19d ago

Recommendations

My boyfriend's turning 23 this Monday, and we're celebrating together on Sunday night since I have to work that day, which he understands. He mentioned that his siblings want to celebrate with him as well, but keep in mind that his birthday is on the 30th. We had already made plans for New Year’s Eve, just the two of us, staying in and watching the ball drop. I was curious about what his siblings had planned for his birthday since I wouldn’t be able to be there. Instead, he told me they're planning something for New Year’s Eve. The thing is, I really don't want to go to that. I genuinely like his siblings, and I know they feel the same about me, but some comments they make really bother me, and I try to avoid going to his sister's house whenever possible. It’s not that I dislike them; I just struggle with being around so many new people. There’s a slight age gap between us—I'm 20 and he's 23—and it often comes up in conversation in a way that feels condescending. People mention how young I am or say I don’t seem my age, and it bothers me. It’s always a topic of discussion, or they mention that they can’t go clubbing because I’m underage. I’m not overly sensitive, but I’ve reached a point where I don’t enjoy meeting new people repeatedly. I was also disappointed that our personal plans have to be canceled because he didn't ask his siblings if they could celebrate on his actual birthday. There’s a lot of context to how I feel, and I try to communicate it to him, but he doesn't seem to understand my perspective. He struggles to say no to his sister, resulting in our plans being canceled whenever she makes arrangements. I feel terrible about not wanting to go, especially since it’s his birthday, but the thought of being there makes me uneasy. I might sound selfish, but I feel like if I’m dreading the comments on his special day and am willing to miss the celebration, then I'm justified in my feelings. I am definitely planning to take him out for a day just for us, but I still feel awful about not wanting to attend on New Year’s Eve. I’d appreciate any advice. Sometimes I get caught up in my feelings and might not realize how I’m coming across, so any insight would be really helpful!


tigeroutlaw98 • 19d ago
It's totally okay to prioritize your comfort, especially when social situations become overwhelming. It sounds like you've already planned a lovely celebration just for the two of you, which is wonderful! Have an honest conversation with your boyfriend about your feelings. Emphasize how much you value your time together. You can express that while you appreciate his family's love, you prefer to celebrate in a way that feels good for you. Respecting your boundaries isn't selfish; it's essential for your well-being!
windranger28 • 19d ago
Have you considered talking to your boyfriend about how you feel regarding his siblings and the New Year’s Eve plans, while also emphasizing your desire to celebrate his birthday in a way that feels comfortable for both of you?
loganisaac • 19d ago
Have you considered discussing your feelings about the New Year’s Eve plans directly with your boyfriend to see if you can find a compromise that works for both of you?
chaserrocket84 • 19d ago
Have you considered discussing your feelings about the New Year’s Eve plans directly with your boyfriend, focusing on how his siblings' comments affect you?
starhunter867 • 19d ago
It sounds like you're in a tricky spot, balancing your feelings with wanting to support your boyfriend. It's completely okay to prioritize your comfort, especially if being around his siblings is stressful for you. You might consider having an honest conversation with your boyfriend about how you feel. Let him know you truly want to celebrate him, just in a way that feels good for you. Plan something special for just the two of you to show him you care!
stellacobra • 19d ago
It's okay to prioritize your comfort! Talk to him honestly about your feelings and plan a special day together.