Raising Good Humans

The Powerful Ways Siblings Influence Success w/ Susan Dominus

42 snips
Oct 17, 2025
Susan Dominus, a journalist and author of The Family Dynamic, dives into the fascinating world of sibling influences on success. She shares how temperament can shape life paths and the limits of parenting in molding children's futures. Highlighting the Murguia family's intentional support network, Susan reveals the power of shared family mottos and values. The discussion touches on the balance of love versus achievement pressure and the importance of allowing children to face struggles. It’s a compelling exploration of connection, collaboration, and competition among siblings.
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ANECDOTE

Twins Revealed Temperament Early

  • Susan Dominus describes raising fraternal twins who turned out very different despite identical upbringing.
  • One son became a fraternity social chair while the other attended a contemplative college, showing temperament's early role.
INSIGHT

Temperament Limits Parental Control

  • Temperament appears partially hardwired and relieves parents of total control over outcomes.
  • Early differences (sleep, potty timing, curiosity) often reveal innate traits rather than parenting failures.
ANECDOTE

Families Chosen For Bold Siblings

  • Susan chose families with bold, trailblazing siblings and discovered siblings' roles emerged during reporting.
  • She selected families who were overcomers or bold visionaries rather than preselecting for sibling closeness.
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