6 Things Adults Who Grew Up As Only Children Understand

By

1. You really, REALLY enjoy being alone

Because you kind of had no choice in the matter. You didn’t have a built-in play (or fight) partner down the hall. You learned how to enjoy your own company, how to create make-believe games and entire worlds. You’re not ashamed to admit your imaginary friend probably hung around a little longer than your peers with actual siblings. But understanding the value of alone time, and being okay with it, has served you well. You feel at home in your own skin and don’t always need another body close by.

2. You like to avoid unnecessary conflict

There wasn’t anyone around to actively frustrate, torment, fight with you, so your natural inclination is to keep all conflict to a minimum. You’d totally be that person in the back, quietly saying, “Can’t we all just get along?”

3. You form really close friendships

Your friends became your stand-in siblings. And maybe even better, these are the siblings you chose. There’s something extra special about this kind of bond. You weren’t just born into the same bloodline, you made a specific decision to be in one another’s lives. And as a result, you treasure these relationships. Your friends are more than friends. Your friends become family.

4. You’re used to attention (whether or not you enjoyed it)

Maybe you love being the center of attention. Or maybe you absolutely loathe it. Either way, doesn’t matter, you still got used to it happening. So when you suddenly grow up and have to share the spotlight, it becomes…an adjustment. To put it lightly.

5. You have no patience for people who get into your personal space.

You didn’t have to share your room with another person, so the idea of someone getting a little too close for comfort is a foreign concept.

6. Despite popular belief, you’re actually pretty generous.

You’re actually very happy to pick up the tab with friends, or treat someone you love to a special night. Being an only child does not equal selfish. In fact, you’re almost more into spending $$$ on people because you never had to split things growing up.