Your brother or sister knows you better than anyone else. It’s uncanny how they realize you’re upset even before you do – and know exactly how to cheer you up. That’s also why they’re our best teachers.
In honor of our Big Dipper and Little Dipper Set of Two supporting Big Brothers Big Sisters of America, we’ve rounded up seven things you can only learn from a sibling.
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1. Sharing is caring. For every sister you have, your wardrobe grows exponentially larger – even if you’re not the exact same size. Years of swapping (and sometimes stealing) accessories and finishing touches gives a whole new meaning to your #CHARMEDARMS. And along the way, you learn to let go of your stuff – which is just stuff, after all.
2. You can handle criticism. When a sibling points out your less-than-stellar behavior, it’s easier to take because you know they still love you. The criticism stings less coming from them, which lets you really hear the constructive advice behind the barb.
3. Loyalty runs deep. You may fight here and there – and over here, and right there, too – but deep down you always have each other’s back. Your siblings are the first to defend you if they think you’re being treated unfairly. That loyalty is the very definition of #squadgoals.
4. Trust matters. Years of confiding in each other – and helping keep curfew secrets from your parents – has taught you the value of keeping your lips sealed and steering clear of gossip. A national security vault has nothing on you!
5. Patience is a (hard-won) virtue. As kids, you had to take turns on the trampoline, accept that you wouldn’t always get the piece of cake with the frosting flower, and get used to sharing your parents’ attention. It didn’t make you bitter; instead these experiences instilled in you a ninja-like patience. You can thank your siblings for your Zen attitude.
6. Grown-up skills last a lifetime. Babysitting younger siblings may have felt like punishment back in the day, but those hours with your little brother or sister taught you how to troubleshoot everyday problems and consider another person’s well-being. #adulting
7. Everyone needs a mentor. Your family came with built-in mentors who root for your success and whose victories you celebrate. Role models who volunteer with Big Brothers Big Sisters of America do the same by developing supporting relationships with young kids, which helps them realize their potential and become more confident adults. Sibling love, after all, isn’t defined by blood.
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Want to help make a difference in the lives of children nationwide? From April 24, 2016 through May 8, 2016, ALEX AND ANI will donate $1.00 per gift card and/or e-gift card purchased in-store, online, and via the ALEX AND ANI mobile application, up to a maximum contribution of $5,000, to Big Brothers Big Sisters of America.
Written by Yelena Shuster.