Has anyone ever told you that you're "too sensitive"?
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Do you experience strong feelings and reactions such as:
Tuning in to others' emotions?
Becoming easily overstimulated by bright lights or loud noises?
Feeling deeply moved by art, music, or movies?
If this sounds like you, you might be a highly sensitive person (HSP). Discover 5 strengths that make you stand out!
Did you know?
20% of all people are highly sensitive.
1. You care deeply
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Highly sensitive people have high levels of empathy — the ability to connect with and put themselves in the shoes of others.
If you're an HSP, not only do you care about other people, but you're also affected by and care about causes that are important to you.
Perhaps you find yourself watching a TV commercial about rescued animals, and all of a sudden, you're tearing up. Then you want to do something about it and make things better!
Put this strength into action:
Volunteer for a cause that's important to you.
Participate in (or lead) a charity drive.
Start a club devoted to your cause.
Did you know?
In the 1990s, psychologist Elaine Aron was the first person to use the term "highly sensitive person".
2. You pay attention to details
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As a highly sensitive person, you pick up on small cues that most other people don't.
For example, you may be able to identify risks quickly when asked to analyze a situation.
You may have a leg up on others in the workplace, too: employers report that highly sensitive people are typically among their most hard-working, valued employees.
Put this strength into action:
Explore careers that require attention to detail (such as newspaper editor or mathemetician).
Volunteer to be the note-taker for groups you belong to.
Did you know?
In 2014, researchers conducted a study of highly sensitive people and found high activity in areas of the brain that control awareness, sensory input, empathy, and action planning.
3. You're creative
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Chances are, if you're a highly sensitive person, you have a rich imagination. It's likely you had imaginary friends as a child and you may often get lost in your own thoughts. You probably dream vividly, too.
Creativity is a special quality that not everyone has! Expressing your creativity contributes to mental wellness,
Put this strength into action:
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4. You're a great friend
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Not only are you quick to pick up on other people's moods, but you also seem to know intuitively how to respond (that's because of your brain's ability to sense small signs more easily than others, like Spidey-sense).
You're considerate and know just what to say and do when your friend is in need.
Put this strength into action, but don't overdo it!
Because friendship traits come to you naturally, you may actually need to rein it in sometimes! Feeling others' emotions, and feeling very deeply, can take its toll.
Avoid being a people pleaser — make sure others are there for you, too!
Quiz
Lola's friend just went through a breakup and needs support. How should Lola, an HSP, support their friend? Select all that apply:
Did you know?
People who are highly sensitive show high activation in areas of the brain that detect and interpret the emotions of others.
5. You're self-reflective
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Highly sensitive people are:
thinkers
perceptive
self-aware
These qualities help HSPs develop strong relationships. Yet, HSPs need to take time to process what they've experienced so that they don't become overwhelmed or self-critical.
Put this strength into action:
Remember to take care of yourself!
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As a highly sensitive person, you absorb a lot each day:
Others' moods and emotions
Environmental stimuli, such as lights, music, and noise
Your brain and body are very busy dealing with all of this input and it's easy to feel overstimulated!
Make sure you give yourself some downtime in order to recharge.
Get at least 7-8 hours of sleep each night.
Spend time alone when you need it.
Set up a space at home where you can retreat.
Learn to say no so that you don't overextend yourself.
Try mindful activities such as coloring, meditation, or breathing exercises.
Did you know?
Take Action
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Now that you know about some of the positive aspects of being a highly sensitive person, use your gifts to make a difference in the world! And don't forget to be kind to yourself so that you have the energy to shine!
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