When I tell people that I am an only child I either get, "Lucky, I wish I was an only child" or "Wow that must suck!" Yes, I am an only child and I get those responses all the time. But I have to admit being an only child isn't that bad. Although there are those days when I do wish I had a sibling, it's nice not being compared to a sibling in the household. On the other hand, my parents expect a lot from me which can be a burden.
Being an only child does have its perks but it also isn't as great as some make it sound. And of course, there are always those stereotypes of being an only child. Some may say people who don't have siblings tend to be spoiled or selfish. I can't speak for every person that is an only child but sorry to break it to you we aren't all spoiled and selfish. But people will think what they think. There are days I love being an only child but there are days I wish I wasn't. Guess you can say it is good and bad.
The Good
1. No comparing.
I'm glad I am an only child because it's just me. My parents will not compare me to my siblings well because I don't have any.
2. My parents' attention.
Okay, I have got to admit... I do love the attention my parents give me. There's no splitting between siblings and I know if I need my parents they will be there right away. I am their top priority but I don't get babied and I don't get everything I want. I work for what I have which is the way it should be.
3. No sharing.
I guess it is a good thing I don't have a sister around my age. I'm not saying I don't like sharing but I am glad I don't have someone who constantly wants to take my clothes and jewelry because chances are I won't get it back.
4. My best friend is my sister!
It's okay I don't have a sister because honestly, my best friends are my sisters. They are supportive, fun and annoying just like a normal sister would be. Having your best friend be like your sister is great because she becomes a part of your family because of how close you guys are.
The Bad
1. It is pretty lonely.
Sometimes I wish I had someone there to do things with. It does get boring and it would be nice to decide to do random stuff at the last minute with a sister or brother by my side.
2. Parents expect a lot from you.
Not having an older sibling, I find that my parents tend to expect the most from me; from getting extremely good grades to making sure I don't get into any trouble. My parents want me to put in 110% effort when it comes to anything and everything.
3. The only child stereotypes.
I get this a lot. Just because I am an only child, people assume I get everything I want and that I am spoiled. Well hate to break the news to you but my parents don't give me everything I want. They actually make me work for what I want. If anything my parents make sure I am not spoiled and would probably kill me if I was even remotely selfish.
4. When your friends have to spend time with their siblings.
It sucks when you want to hang out with your friends and they are spending time with their siblings. They get to enjoy time with their sibling while I'm here without one. I want to have a sibling bond and have a sister or brother to share family memories with. It sucks but you learn to live with it.
So there you go, being an only child is both good and bad. No, I am not spoiled and yes sometimes I do wish I had a sibling. But for now, I guess I am stuck having my best friends be my sisters, which is pretty great too!
