We are of the same blood. How relationships with siblings affect us and our lives

Relationships with siblings affect us just as strongly as relationships with parents. They are the first "equals" in our lives. Thanks to them, we learned what competition is, how to care for and adapt, to feud and negotiate. The experience of interacting with siblings defines our adult life. It leaves an imprint on our choice of work, business partners, friends, and loved ones. This book explains in simple language how birth order, roles in the family, and hidden family rules shape stable behavior patterns. The author helps to understand how sibling destructive behavior patterns manifest in marriage, friendship, work, and money. It also discusses ways to correct them. After reading the book, you will: • understand your role in the family system and its influence on your current life; • figure out the reasons for distance, resentments, or competition with siblings; • stop repeating the same patterns in relationships and work; • take a step towards mature closeness — with yourself and with others. REVIEW: "The topic of sibling relationships is the most complex in psychotherapy. We believe that we start with discussions about relationships with our mother or father because they bother us the most. But the essence is that the most difficult issues are usually left for later, for last, to touch on when we have the courage, or not to touch on at all. The author of this book boldly stepped into this topic, so that many people could understand where their problems come from and, most importantly, how to solve them. The book offers enough clarity on this topic, numerous good and understandable examples, recommendations, and solutions. Even if you don't plan to change anything — being informed, knowing how things are, is always useful, important, and necessary." — Irina Semizorova, clinical psychologist, systemic therapist, author of bestsellers.