The Seagulls host promotion rivals Norwich tomorrow [Sat] at the Amex Stadium.
Chris Hughton’s side have reached the play-offs in three of the past four seasons, but have not made a Wembley final in that time.
Last term Brighton suffered the agony of missing out on automatic promotion on goal difference on the final day – then lost to Sheffield Wednesday in the play-off semi-finals.
And former Arsenal, Chelsea and Fulham midfielder Sidwell insists they must try and make the jump up to the top-flight as soon as possible as escaping the Championship will only get tougher.
The 33-year-old said: “It’s a big question people are asking – is it harder to get out of the Championship or stay in the Premier League?
“And having played in both leagues I would say it is now harder to get out of the Championship.
“There are a lot of good squads in the Premier League and that strength has filtered down into the Championship.
“Norwich have kept hold of the majority of their squad, and there is plenty of quality in the division.
“And I think sooner is better than later to go up, as it is only going to get harder.”
And on a similar theme Hughton reckons the pressure on managers is now greater in the second tier.
The former Spurs defender was angry at two more sackings this week – Walter Zenga at Wolves and Gary Caldwell at Wigan.
Hughton said: “It is incredibly disappointing, and an unfortunate part of the game.
“The expectations from clubs trying to get into the Premier League and the huge money on offer there are making it harder for managers in the Championship.”
