I know a lot of times we hear the negative stigma around being the oldest child, such as cleaning up after your younger siblings and taking all the big responsibilities. I am here to tell you that there are actually several benefits to being a first-born. In fact, there are probably more advantages to being the oldest child than there is being the youngest, even if people argue otherwise.
1. When you were born, your parents always gave you their undivided attention. Unlike your siblings you were able to experience the phenomenon of being an only child.
2. Eventually, when that came to an end, you learned that you were the one setting the standards. You could set them as high or low as you wanted.
3. In addition, you are the one that gets to test the waters for many life's milestones. Like, you were the first one to attend school or the first to start driving.
4. As you learned to get smarter in school, you also figured out first that siblings can easily be used as a device to take the blame.
5. And playful teasing was also a great way to get a smile on your face.
How could we forget all the funny pranks and practical jokes that we'd play on our younger siblings growing up? All the whoopee cushions, water balloons and iced water bucket would give you endless amounts of enjoyment.
6. The teasing was only allowed by you though. In fact, you were your younger siblings knight in shining armor when it came to the outside world.
7. You always know that they have your back as well.
I know I can personally relate to this one. My baby brothers always had my back growing up, especially if there were any heart-breaking boys lurking around.
8. Your younger siblings eventually helped you figure out the tricks to doing your chores the fastest.
9. You were in charge when Mom and Dad weren't home.
Nobody else had the authority to tell you what to do. You were the one that was directing the show and giving orders around the house. If your younger siblings didn't listen, then you would just have to pick up the phone and speed dial your parents.
10. Blackmailing your siblings was probably one of your specialities.
Finding out your younger sibling accidentally broke your mother's favorite china set or accidentally turned your dad's shirt into something that would only fit a barbie are the types of incidents you lived for. We all know those things came in handy when it was your turn to clean the bathroom.
11. As you grew older and wiser, you realized that having siblings was one of the greatest things that happened to you. You knew you could always count on them for unconditional love.
