Sibling secrets: your place on the family totem pole spells out a whole lot more than you might think when it comes to relating to fam and friends.

Are you a big sis, little sis, somewhere in the middle or an only kid? The order you were born means more than how often you're stuck with dish duty. In fact, where you fall in the ram helps explain how you relate not only to your 'rents and sibs, but to the outside world in general. No matter what you think of being the only, oldest, middle or youngest, you can't trade places. Good thing you've got GL's guide to helping you make the most of your family ties.

TOP GIRL

It seems everyone (except maybe you) wants a big sis, so why is it so tough to be one?

The oldest experiences everything for the first time, so while the family focus falls on you (fun!), so does the pressure (not so fun). Your sibs may occasionally get jealous, and don't expect them to be sympathetic when you gripe about the harsh plight of being in the spotlight.

MASTER YOUR SIB-SITCH

'Rents Yes, your parents expect a lot from you. But instead of stressing, talk openly with your mom and dad about the stuff that bothers you--and stuff that doesn't. Make good communication one of your legacies to your little sibs.

Sibs Your brothers and sisters count on you for advice and approval more than you might realize. Give it to them.

Friends Yes, your parents expect you to help with your sibs. But take a break from being bossy when kicking it with buds. And while friends love your good advice, occasionally you need some, too! Don't feel bad about waving the white flag.

FAIR TO MIDDLING 

So, you're not the oldest, appearing in countless photo albums that document every movement of your life since birth. And you're also not the youngest, basking in all the cutesy-poo attention. You're just you--stuck in the middle and feeling pretty unnoticed.

You might wish for some of the star power your sibs possess. But, remember, that kind of constant scrutiny can also be a curse. Actually, many middle kids love their independence. Messy room? No prob. Third dinner in a row at your BFF's house? OK! So, soak up what your mum and dad do pile on you: total trust and sighs of relief at the end of each day that at least one of their children is not unleashing drama on the world.

MASTER YOUR SIB-SITCH

'Rents Feel that you're missing out on some major attention? Parents usually try to be fair, so don't be afraid to ask if you need a tittle parent-time.

Sibs While conflict is bound to happen, especially in a larger family, middle kids make great purveyors of peace.

Friends You have so many! Being buds with everyone keeps you super-busy, but don't spread yourself too thin--they might feel lost in the crowd, too!

BABY TALK

As the baby of the family, you probably know how spoiled you are. The youngest kid naturally gets a lot of attention, because you're still the little girl.

Sometimes, older sibs might be a little overbearing with you too. While they're protective (which you like), they may think you're too young to understand older-girl stuff (which you hate). Yeah, older sibs seem to get to do a lot more now, but remember, you're likely doing more than they did at your age.

MASTER YOUR SIB-SITCH

'Rents Yours may think you can do no wrong, so you score with special treatment. The downside? They don't want you to grow up, either. Remind them that you are growing up, no matter what, but let them know you'll always be their baby.

Sibs Some older sibs spoil the youngest right along with the rest of the family. But others, like sibs who are closer in age, may still resent being replaced as the youngest. Just avoid any gloating reactions, and be your irresistible self.

Friends You're completely comfortable with lots of attention. No wonder your BFF thinks you should take your comedy act on tour--it takes a special person to entertain an entire family. But don't forget to let your buds shine, too.

ONE AND ONLY

As an only child, you often hear your buds complain how frustrating life is with brothers and sisters. To them, having your own roam and being the center of your parents' universe seem like something straight out of The Princess Diaries.

It's true, you love your solo status--no bathroom negotiations, no forced babysitting nights, no interruptions while talking on the phone. Life at home is calm and quiet. In fact, it can be creepy quiet. Suffering from occasional sib envy, you may have told your BFF to get a grip on her family gripes a time or two.

MASTER YOUR SIB-SITCH

'Rents One-on-one time can really make for a super-close relationship, but you may find yourself wishing for a younger brother to share some of those unused cell phone minutes. Remind your parents that you love how much time and attention they give you, but that you need your space as well.

Future Sibs? Hey, it's possible! Don't get too set in your ways. You may end up a big sis after all.

Friends Buds admire your independence and individual style. But show your warm generosity to be sure you don't fall into that "me-me-me" only-child stereotype.

TWIN SPIN

Of all the sib combinations, yours is rarest. And that means dorky questions will: answers like, "No, we don't dress alike!" and, "Umm, switching places on our BFs isn't our thing. "Even if you're not Mary-Kate and Ashley, people's fascination with your semi-mirror images can get annoying.

Being a twin does have its perks. Pretty much always knowing exactly what your alter-ego is thinking is kinda Harry Potter-esque. And it's cool to have someone to share the gripes and probs of growing up. Also, if your twin is a girl, it doesn't hurt that you wear the exact same size--double the wardrobe, anyone? If your twin is a boy, you have built-in insight into a whole other world of mystery--other dudes!

MASTER YOUR SIB-SITCH

'Rents They're totally tuned in to your personalities, but don't let them think just 'cause you look alike, your thoughts are also identical. Speak up and give them a piece of your mind, not your mind-meld.

Sibs Even if you're totally inseparable from your twin, emphasize your own identity and let your uniqueness shine. Also, if you have other sibs, don't leave them out! Twins can sometimes make any outsider, even a sib, feel like a third wheel.

Friends The twin novelty wore off long ago with your true buds and, even if you're identical, they can tell who's who. That's cool, but don't feel that you and your twin have to hang with the exact same crew. Feel free to branch out to new friends who share kicks and secrets with only you.