For many plushie enthusiasts, forming a special bond with a stuffed animal is an important part of the experience.
But sometimes that connection doesn’t come as easily as expected. If you’re struggling to bond with your plushies, you’re not alone. This guide will explore various ways to cultivate a meaningful relationship with your stuffed companions.
Understanding the Challenge
It’s common to feel a disconnect between the excitement of acquiring a new plushie and the reality of bonding with it. As one collector shared:
“I always think ‘This will be my favorite plushie, I just know it’ and then once I get it or it arrives, I will love it for a few days and then it’ll end up on my shelf with my others.”
This experience is more common than you might think, and there are several strategies you can try to deepen your connection with your plushies.
Strategies for Bonding
1. Give Them a Personality
One of the most effective ways to bond with a plushie is to give it a distinct personality. As one enthusiast suggests, “Assign them a name and a distinct personality in your head, the friendship will blossom the more time the two of you spend together.”
- Create a backstory for your plushie
- Imagine their likes and dislikes
- Consider their relationships with your other plushies
2. Take Them on Adventures
Several collectors recommend taking your plushies with you on trips or daily outings. “One thing that helps me bond with plushies that maybe don’t get as much love is taking them on trips with me, even if it’s just to work and home,” shares one collector.
- Bring a plushie in your bag or backpack to work or school
- Take photos of your plushie at different locations
- Include your plushie in your daily routines
3. Create Memories Together
Bonds with a plushie are often formed through shared experiences. As one plushie owner explains:
“My trusted bunny companion Luna was a gift by a good friend, helped me get through rough work times, helped me stay sane through sleepless nights while I was fighting insomnia…”
- Turn to your plushie for comfort during difficult times
- Celebrate achievements with your plushie
- Include your plushie in special occasions or traditions
4. Rotate Your Attention
If you have a large collection, it can be challenging to bond with individual plushies. Consider implementing a rotation system:
“I tend to rotate sleeping with mine vs shelf time. When I’m ready to rotate I thank the one leaving for its service so it feels appreciated and inform the next one of its draft status.”
5. Customize Your Plushie
Adding personal touches can help create a unique bond with a plushie. “If I’m still having trouble I’ll customize them!” says one enthusiast. “On one of my plushies I replaced their eyes, one of them has a cute new outfit, another has weighted beads added.”
- Add accessories like ribbons or small outfits
- Consider minor modifications if you’re crafty
- Even simple additions like a special tag can make a plushie feel more personal
6. Be Patient and Open
Sometimes, bonding takes time and can’t be forced. “You can never force it. It just happens,” advises one collector. Stay open to the possibility of connection, and don’t be discouraged if it doesn’t happen immediately.
Remember: There’s No “Right” Way to Love Plushies
It’s important to remember that there’s no single correct way to bond with or enjoy plushies. As one wise collector puts it, “Some people bond closely to one, some people love them all! There is no wrong way to love a plushie.”
Whether you have one special plushie or a diverse collection you appreciate equally, your relationship with your stuffed friends is valid and special.
How Will You Choose to Bond With Your Plushie?
Bonding with a plushie is a personal and often unpredictable process.
By giving your plushies personalities, including them in your life experiences, and remaining patient and open, you increase the chances of forming that special connection. Remember, the goal is to enjoy your plushies in whatever way feels right for you.
With time, care, and a bit of imagination, you may find yourself developing deep and meaningful bonds with your stuffed companions.