Growing up with brothers or sisters can seem annoying, at times, but it has actually been proven that having siblings prepares you for life's greatest obstacles.
Sharing.
From toys, to clothes, to even friends -- you have shared it all. Learning that not everything is yours and that others are allowed to touch your belongings, are two great qualities having siblings teaches you.
Including others.
Most likely, you've heard your mom say, “Ask your sister if she wants to come, too!" Always having to include your brother or sister, which seemed annoying at the time, is a great character building skill to have. During middle school when everyone was excluding people, you welcomed everyone with open arms.
Competitiveness.
Being competitive can be a good or a bad thing, but growing up always being compared to someone else, actually makes you work even harder. It has been proven that people who grew up with siblings are more likely to work harder and achieve their goals due to always having to “one up" someone else.
Forgiveness.
When you fight with a sibling in front of a friend who is an only child, they freak out and think you will never speak to your sibling again. But little do they know, that screaming match will have blown over by the next day -- at the latest. Growing up fighting, addressing the issue head on, and making up, prepares you for long lasting friendships where you can openly express any issues you may be facing.
Loyalty.
“Don't mess with my little sister!" Always having your siblings back is a quality that later in life will serve as an admirable character trait. Being loyal is important in any relationship and your friends will love when you stick up for them.
Selflessness.
Being an only child means everything is about them -- all the time. Sharing your parents' attention with your siblings means you know when to sit back and let someone else take the hot seat. Siblings help you become less selfish and realize the world doesn't revolve around you -- it revolved around you and two other people.
Ability to be open.
Sharing secrets and opening yourself up to relationships is important for making friends and entering into romantic relationships. Growing up with siblings you could pour your heart out to allows you to welcome non-family members in with open arms.
Looking back, it seemed like all they were doing was pushing your buttons, but your siblings were actually preparing you for successful future relationships! Plus, they are the best friends you will ever have.
