A quote by an unknown person goes:
Be good to your siblings…They are your closest link to your past, and the ones most likely to be there with you into the future.
But why is it sometimes hard to get along with your brothers and sisters? While sibling rivalry might always be a mystery, how to improve your relationship with them doesn’t have to be.
- Before you act, take deep breaths. 10 deep breaths are all you need to regain your temper and keep yourself from saying or doing something you will regret. If you stay composed, you might actually be able to resolve the argument peacefully.
- Don’t let their words get to you. They are only words, after all. No matter how nasty your brother or sister is treating you, be the mature one: instead of fighting back with more insults, just walk away.
- Pick your fights. Most fights between siblings aren’t even worth fighting. Ask yourself, “Do I really care about winning this argument?” If the answer’s No, save your breath.
- Go to your parents, but only if it’s a serious problem that you can’t solve yourself. And don’t approach them in the heat of the fight. Wait a couple of hours, and if you still want to involve your folks, sit down with them and make your point in a mature, even tone, as if you were an adult, too.
- Give them space. Living under the same roof as someone can be a big drain, even if you are not related to each other. If you don’t have your own room, you can make a pact with your sibling to respect closed doors.
- Give yourself a break. There’s no use aiming for a perfect relationship with your brother or sister, because perfect relationships with siblings don’t exist. Know that it’s normal to be annoyed or frustrated every once in a while. Cherish the happy times with them, even if they are rare occurrences.
Tips:
- Just because you are the younger sibling doesn’t mean you have to act that way. Always be mature, even if your older siblings aren’t.
- Just because you are the older sibling doesn’t mean you always know best. Give your younger siblings the same respect you want them to give you.
