Firstborn

"Firstborns are natural leaders. They also tend to be reliable, conscientious and perfectionists who don't like surprises. Often they are placed in a care-providing and protective role for the younger siblings and therefore may tend to be more responsible in their lives in general. This can result in a desire to control the people and situations around them. Oldest children usually follow the rules and set the examples for younger children. Positive traits that are typically associated with oldest children include their leadership abilities and ambition."

Over the years I have read several books about being a firstborn child.  The above information comes from one of those books.  I am a firstborn, and while not all of these traits apply to all  firstborns, some of them do apply to me.  I was often called upon to care for my three younger siblings; I am reliable (AND punctual, though not mentioned above); I prefer to be in control; and I typically follow the rules. In other words I tend to be bossy, nosy, aggressive and inflexible!  I think my friends and family know that my intentions are good and perhaps they forgive me for my short-comings, but it's good to remember that there are always things I can work on.  This is a reminder to myself to slow down, listen and to sometimes let others steer the ship!