Being part of a step family isn’t easy. Whether you’ve been with them for a month, year, or more, there’s always going to be some kind of struggle—especially if you have step siblings. Having step siblings can feel weird, and you might hate it at the moment. Just like any relationship, it takes a lot of work to become close or even just to get along with them.
If you’re starting to see your step family more often, or even live with them, it’s hard to accept the situation, especially if your parents’ divorce didn’t end on the best of terms. Either way, my advice to you is to never hate your step siblings because of it, or because they’re not your “real family”.
Remember, they’re in the same boat as you are. You might have to share bedrooms, homes, holidays, your parent’s love, and more. But they have to share their lives too. Being in the same boat, you’re both going to have to paddle together in order to get somewhere. If someone’s not willing to paddle, it’s going to take a lot longer to reach any destination. So, even if you don’t want anything to do with your step siblings at the moment, I promise, it won’t stay that way. Put some effort into trying to develop your relationship with them and eventually they’ll do the same.
I have lived with my step siblings for almost eight years now. Sure, things get rocky, and with five kids in total, it can get hectic. But what I’ve learned is that I wouldn’t be the same person I am today without them, and I cherish a lot of the memories we’ve made together. Some people say that I got lucky, but I can guarantee that it’s not all luck; it’s a lot of effort, too.