Being the oldest isn't always what it's cracked up to be. I think it is the hardest job I have ever had and the biggest downfall of it all: it's an unpaid position. But, on the other hand, it's taught me things I don't think I would have learned as a middle or younger sibling.

1. You are the secondary parent.

When the parents are away, the siblings are here to stay. I can't count the amount of times I have had to fill the role of being the parent. It, unfortunately, has made me a pretty bossy person, but I have good intentions, I swear.

2. Loads of responsibility

Not only do you have to be responsible for your younger sibling, but you have your own responsibilities, bigger ones. There's a certain hidden pressure from the parents on the older siblings to lead a good example for the younger ones. It took me awhile to realize that there is a lot of pressure on the younger sibling, too but, luckily, they don't have the touch of anxiety we get.

3. Lots of heartbreak

The heartbreak doesn't just have to come from them. You'll kick, scream and fight with them. Disappointment sucks, and you may want to get used to that. I know that is harsh of me to say, but it's true. Luckily, it doesn't happen as often as you think it does.

4. Always learning something new

There may be plenty of negatives that come along with being an older sibling, but I wouldn't trade it for the world. I have learned so much from taking care of another person, even if she is only three and a half years younger than me. I wish I could thank her for all of the opportunities I have received from begging for her as a kid; though, there aren't enough words to display it.

I know sometimes I wish I were an only child, but that's only because I am mad. Thank you, Kelsey, from the bottom of my heart.