Being the eldest child often means being the family’s unofficial experiment. Parents place high expectations, making the firstborn feel responsible for paving the way for younger siblings. While this can build leadership, it also comes with hidden emotional burdens.

First, emotional stress is common. Eldest children often feel parentified-taking care of siblings and managing emotional dynamics, which may lead to anxiety or even disorders like compulsive overworking.

Second, they become the ultimate peacekeeper, constantly resolving sibling fights, yet often left unheard themselves. They mediate for others but rarely find space for their own feelings.

Third, there's the painful feeling of ‘not being enough’. The pressure to be perfect and serve as a role model can damage their self-confidence and lead to deep self-doubt.

Fourth, the sudden need for sharing attention, toys, and space with younger siblings after being the only child can feel jarring and unfair.

Lastly, they become a human alarm clock-expected to be punctual, set examples, and even wake their siblings, despite being just a child themselves.

These quiet, lifelong pressures shape the eldest child in complex ways, often unnoticed by others.