Archive · 6 Jun 2025
Arbitrary Anniversaries: Are They Helpful or Harmful in Relationships?
Imagine celebrating random dates in your relationship, like your first kiss or a fun night out.
Some people call these 'arbitrary-versaries.'
Experts say it's like sprinkling extra fun into your relationship by remembering happy moments.
These can build a special bond.
However, if you feel pressured to remember every little thing, it can become stressful.
True care and showing you care is more important than a perfect memory.
Celebrations should be fun, not a task, and should come naturally.
Arbitrary-versaries are made-up dates celebrating minor relationship milestones.
These celebrations, coined by Laura Boyle, can serve as reminders of joy.
Relationship experts suggest genuine care and attention are more crucial than specific dates.
These can help create 'positivity anchors' and build a private language.
Constant celebration can create pressure and may indicate trust or intimacy issues.
- Who
- Couples in relationships.
- What
- Arbitrary-versaries are made-up relationship celebrations.
- When
- No specific time is given.
- Where
- Not applicable.
- Why
- To mark the passage of time, strengthen bonds, and create joy.
Benefits
Potential downsides
Impact on Relationships
Benefits
Arbitrary anniversaries strengthen bonds by creating joy.
Potential downsides
Over-celebrating can become a chore and indicate deeper relationship issues.
- Definition of Arbitrary-versary
- Made-up dates celebrating memorable events.
- Coined by
- Laura Boyle, a polyamory expert.
- Key takeaway
- Prioritizing care, attention, and understanding is more important.
- Recommendations
- Celebrations should be low-pressure and organic.