Growing up as an only child, I heard so many preconceived notions and myths about being raised that people just assumed they were true about me. Honestly, most of them are not. Here are some of the ones I've heard the most.

1. "You must have been spoiled."

No, I really don't think I was. Sure, my parents bought me things and help me out when I need it, but I wasn't spoiled. My parents didn't just buy me things at the drop of a hat because I asked for them. My parents taught me responsibility and how to save my money. From a young age, I learned that in order to get things that I want I needed to save up my money and buy them myself.

Being an only child may have helped with things such as schooling. Seeing as my parents only had me to put through school, they helped me probably more than someone who had four siblings. However, I don't think that makes me spoiled. My parents only wanted one child and I am thankful that they have been able to help me through school because of that.

2. "You must be really independent."

I actually think this one is true, at least for me. Although, I am not sure this has too much to do with the fact that you're an only child, but more to do with how you are raised. I was raised to be a strong, independent woman. Being an only child, and only having my mom and dad as role models, I think definitely helped play into this role for me.

3. "You grew up too fast."

True. I think that as an only child, I grew up and matured a lot faster than my friends. I spent more time with adults (my parents) than children or siblings. Because of this, I really don't have too many friends my age and get annoyed with my generation a lot quicker than normal 22-year-olds. However, I love that I matured fast. I went through the "drama stage" very early and it was very fast lived. Thank God.

4. "You must be selfish."

Nope. No. Nada. This hardly deserves an explanation. If you think that I am selfish just because I am an only child, then you are ignorant and need to actually get to know me.

5. "You didn't have the full family experience."

I don't really know what this means. Because I didn't have any brothers and sisters, my family isn't as good as yours? I have the best family and because I didn't have any brothers or sisters, I got to be extremely close with my two cousins. I grew up with them and basically consider them my sisters, Most people aren't that lucky. My whole extended family is closer than any family I know, even those with brothers and sisters. Honestly, no, I wouldn't want it any other way!

Growing up as an only child was an amazing experience. No, I don't wish I had siblings. Yes, I have an amazing family just how they are.