10 Perks Of Being The Oldest Child
Start writing a post
Relationships

10 Perks Of Being The Oldest Child

Being the oldest rules.

3344
10 Perks Of Being The Oldest Child
Franklin

Growing up with siblings can be a real struggle sometimes. They seem to always show up at just the most inconvenient moments and never shut up, no matter how many times you tell them to stop talking and go away. But despite all the trouble that being the oldest child can cause, there were many pros that came along with the position growing up.

1. You got to set the bar as high as you'd like.

Being the oldest, there are no precedents or expectations from your parents. That means whatever great things you do, they are automatically new and exciting for your family. Sorry, younger siblings, for being so awesome.

2. You felt a sense of responsibility at a young age to teach your siblings all the "important stuff" in life -- and they would believe you no matter what.

Having younger siblings looking up to you meant you got to tell them anything (really, no matter how silly, anything), and they'd always automatically believe you because, well, you're the oldest child after all.

3. You got to be bossy.

Younger siblings are somewhat like free labor. When they're young, they'll do anything to be cool, and who better to wash the dishes than them when you're too lazy to do it yourself?

4. You were the first to experience "big kid stuff."

Finding out the truth about Santa, getting a cell phone, or being able to stay out late -- there were many bragging rights that came with the eldest child role and you soaked up the opportunity to be a big kid every chance you got.

5. Being older means automatic dibs -- on everything.

Who gets to pick the TV channel? What about who gets to sit shotgun in the car ride to the store? Or who is the first one to use the shower? Being the oldest meant you could claim whatever you wanted and say, "I call dibs because I'm older."

6. Younger siblings are always your ego-boasting groupies.

Older siblings are looked up to for so many things, and although it could get annoying, you secretly loved how they would always copy your style, phrases, and habits growing up. Like they say, imitation is the highest form of flattery.

7. Standing up for little brothers and sisters made you feel tough.

NO ONE is allowed to bully my younger siblings except me.

8. Hand-me-downs? What are those?

Growing up, you were always the giver of hand-me-downs, but rarely the receiver.

9. You get to watch them grow, and you know you have built-in best friends for life.

Watching your younger siblings grow up is a bittersweet feeling. Being the oldest, you feel proud knowing you helped shaped them, and happy knowing they'll always be there for you.

10. Through it all, you've learned some pretty valuable leadership skills.

Beyond all the jokes and silly times, being the oldest has prepared you for life by teaching you how to help others, be selfless, and take responsibility.

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Student Life

100 Reasons to Choose Happiness

Happy Moments to Brighten Your Day!

31572
A man with a white beard and mustache wearing a hat

As any other person on this planet, it sometimes can be hard to find the good in things. However, as I have always tried my hardest to find happiness in any and every moment and just generally always try to find the best in every situation, I have realized that your own happiness is much more important than people often think. Finding the good in any situation can help you to find happiness in some of the simplest and unexpected places.

Keep Reading...Show less
Christmas

Remember The True Meaning of Christmas

“Where are you Christmas? Why can’t I find you?”

2130
A painting of the virgin Mary, the baby Jesus, and the wise men

It’s everyone’s favorite time of year. Christmastime is a celebration, but have we forgotten what we are supposed to be celebrating? There is a reason the holiday is called Christmas. Not presentmas. Not Santamas. Not Swiftmas. Christmas.

boy standing in front of man wearing santa claus costume Photo by __ drz __ on Unsplash



What many people forget is that there is no Christmas without Christ. Not only is this a time to spend with your family and loved ones, it is a time to reflect on the blessings we have gotten from Jesus. After all, it is His birthday.


Keep Reading...Show less
Golden retriever sat on the sand with ocean in the background
Photo by Justin Aikin on Unsplash

Anyone who knows me knows how much I adore my dog. I am constantly talking about my love for her. I attribute many of my dog's amazing qualities to her breed. She is a purebred Golden Retriever, and because of this I am a self-proclaimed expert on why these are the best pets a family could have. Here are 11 reasons why Goldens are the undisputed best dog breed in the world.

Keep Reading...Show less
Featured

Boyfriend's Christmas Wishlist: 23 Best Gift Ideas for Her

Here are the gifts I would like to ask my boyfriend for to make this season unforgettable.

89295
Young woman opening a Christmas gift

Recently, an article on Total Sorority Move called 23 Things My Boyfriend Better Not Get Me For Christmas, was going around on social media. I hope the author of this was kidding or using digital sarcasm, but I am still repulsed and shocked by the lack of appreciation throughout this article. I would like to represent the girlfriends out there who disagree with her standpoint -- the girlfriends who would be more than happy to receive any of these gifts from their boyfriends.

Keep Reading...Show less
Two teenage girls smiling

The 2000s were a time that many young adults today can look back on, joyfully reminisce and somewhat cringe at the trends and the fads that we all used to love and adore. Here's a list of things from the golden 2000s that will have one feeling nostalgic about all of those times.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments