The life of the eldest sibling can be overwhelming. Sometimes you might feel like family take you for granted because they ‘expect’ you to take on certain responsibilities. You may also feel like you don’t really have anyone to go to for help, because you’re the one people go to.

You might feel like you can’t display weakness or vulnerability because you have to be ‘strong’ for your family and younger siblings. You may feel like you don’t have room to ‘fail’ because you’re expected to lead by example.

You may feel like you don’t have the luxury to take certain risks in life, because you feel responsible for multiple people. Of all your siblings, you likely worry about your parents the most, because you believe it will be your job to take care of them in future.

You carry a heavy weight on your shoulders. You might even be slightly jealous of your younger siblings because you may think they live life freely with less responsibility and expectations thrust upon them. Sometimes you may even think “I wish I wasn’t the oldest”.

I know it’s tough. I know you’re under pressure. But you are also probably much more valued than you know. And if you’re not valued, you most certainly should be because you are a rock of the family. A caregiver, a support system, a financial helper, a second parent, a leader.