3 Reasons High Sensitivity is a Gift
There are some challenges to being a highly sensitive person. As therapists who specialize in HSPs, we don’t see high sensitivity as a flaw. We recognize the incredible gifts your high sensitivity offers. You’re more empathetic than the average bear, and your sensitivity can bring a lot to the table. At Therapy for Highly Sensitive People, we believe there are many strengths to being an HSP. Here are three reasons to be proud of your sensitivity.
1. You can read the room
Because HSPs are empathetic and attuned to the emotions in the room, you may be able to spot when morale is low. This can be helpful in a professional setting, but also in situations like a group vacation. You’re probably a person who favors a democratic process when making group decisions and can tell when someone is unhappy -- even if they’re not speaking up.
Research shows that highly sensitive people have very active mirror neurons. Compared to the average person, high sensitivity is associated with an “activation of brain regions involved in awareness, integration of sensory information, empathy, and action planning.” What a strength!
2. You’re self-aware
As Psychology Today puts it, as a highly sensitive person, you’re “well-acquainted with your emotional landscape.” This awareness can be beneficial in a variety of situations. At work, you may be able to tell when you’re coming across too timidly and decide to be more firm. In personal relationships, you may be able to sense when you’re taking up too much time in a conversation with your friend.
Being aware of your own emotions and habits is a gift. Because you are better able to identify and manage your own emotions and how people perceive you, you’re able to adjust as needed.
3. You’re focused on fairness
Not only are HSPs aware of their own feelings, they also tend to be attuned to unfairness happening around them. In fact, there is research that shows that highly sensitive people have a keen sense of justice and ethics. This can make you invaluable in a variety of career fields, and it also makes you a good friend.
Because you’re sensitive to nuance and emotion, you may be uniquely positioned to understand the consequences of injustice. For instance, you know that if a co-worker is blamed for something they didn’t do, that person may be hurt and not want to remain employed at the company. In your personal life, you’re a great party host, because you make sure everyone gets fed. Your concern for fairness adds to your integrity!
Being highly sensitive can feel like a burden at times because you do so much feeling. But remember, it also positions you to better navigate a variety of situations because you’re able to spot when someone feels left out or when you need to change tack as with your boss.
If you’re in California and need a therapist that knows how to help HSPs, we’re here for you at Therapy for Highly Sensitive People! You can schedule a session with an HSP-focused therapist today.
