|
|||||||||||
|
Our parents had high expectations for all five of us. They were very
supportive of our interests, attending any events in which we participated, whether it was
a wresting match or high school band concert. We all learned to cheer for each other. All the career groups in our survey had women of all the possible birth orders; thus we can’t assume that birth order is a limitation for any career. Being firstborn proved an advantage for almost all careers other than mental health, nursing, and homemaking. There were more youngest children in mental health, an equal percentage of oldest and middle children in allied health, and more middle children among the homemakers. Many women described rivalry with a sister or brother who was highly talented in one area as the reason they stayed away from that subject or interest. They felt that area "belonged" to the sibling and believed they wouldn’t be able to distinguish themselves. Competition between siblings can set very different directions for children in the same family.
Don't let your birth order prevent you from taking the risk of leadership. Leadership may not feel as comfortable to you if you are middle or youngest child, but do make deliberate attempts to take charge of organizations so you can learn to lead. If you’re oldest in the family, don't always insist on control. Letting others take the lead from time to time may free up some creative energy and give you the freedom to make occasional mistakes. A balance of control and creativity are important for most careers.
When it comes to exploring your own talents, don't avoid areas just because a talented family member seems to have claimed the spot. You can have less talent than a brother or sister and still be very capable compared to the rest of the world. If you do feel competitive with your siblings, you don't have to disguise your feelings. It’s better to talk them through and even learn to praise and admire your sibling. Families thrive when all members become lifelong cheerleaders for one another. ©2001 by Sylvia B. Rimm. All rights reserved. This publication, or parts thereof, may not be reproduced in any form without written permission of the author. Also read How to Raise a Whole Smart Family Check out Dr. Rimm's other web site at www.sylviarimm.com |
||||||||||
© 2000 by Sylvia B. Rimm. All rights
reserved. This web site
designed by Joanne Riedl for Sylvia Rimm |
|||||||||||
