10 Reasons Why Being ‘Extra Sensitive’ Is the Best Thing Ever
People may call you ‘too sensitive’ or ‘overly emotional.’ They couldn’t be more wrong.
When you’re a highly sensitive person (HSP), you feel the world a bit more intensely than other people do. Your brain processes stimuli more deeply, which results in stronger reactions to the world around you. At times, this can be extremely overwhelming — physically, emotionally, and psychologically.
People may call you “too sensitive” or “overly emotional,” or they may not understand your particular little “ticks.” And when you feel everything, being shamed for it can be pretty painful.
But what about the advantages that come with being a little “extra sensitive”?
While experiencing the world as a highly sensitive person may be stressful at times, it’s important to remember that the abilities to notice finer details, feel emotions more strongly, and be a deep thinker can actually be very beneficial skills to have. Living a happy and successful life as an HSP may be made easier by recognizing and taking advantage of your strengths.
Here are 10 reasons why HSPs should embrace their sensitivity.
(Wondering if you’re a highly sensitive person? This will tell you.)
10 Reasons ‘Extra Sensitive’ = ‘Extra Awesome’
1. You’re perceptive.
One of the key characteristics of HSPs is their tendency to notice details about their environment (sights, sounds, feelings, etc.) that others may not. HSPs are often very observant and are likely to be the first person to pick up on subtle changes. For example, you may be the one to notice when the lighting or temperature changes in a room, or when your friend suddenly becomes upset.
2. You’re detail-oriented.
HSPs typically pay attention to pretty much everything. They often notice small details and understand that every idea, concept, and creation is made up of smaller, well-defined parts. You may have the ability to craft written pieces or visual works of art with precision, be skilled at building beautiful, intricate projects, or have a keen eye for refinement and improvement.
3. You appreciate “the little things.”
When the whole world is full of stimuli, it may seem like there’s always a lot going on. But for an HSP, this may mean that they are more easily engaged by and interested in the simpler things in their environment. You are likely able to find joy and calmness in the light scent of a flower, a quiet chorus of birds, the warmth from the sun, or watching a gently flowing stream.
4. You’re a deep thinker.
HSPs are often very inquisitive and curious. Because they notice so many details about the world, they may spend a lot of time wondering why things are the way they are and pondering their existence and life itself. Therefore, you may be quite insightful and interested in learning about and discussing meaningful topics.
5. You’re a problem solver.
Because they have such well-developed thinking skills, HSPs tend to be able to easily find effective solutions to various types of problems. Their insightfulness can encourage them to consider intricacies and different angles to issues that others might not. Your attention to detail and contemplativeness may help your ability to develop inventive, valuable ideas.
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6. You’re creative.
Due to their perceptive nature, HSPs may be more inclined to notice and appreciate distinctions in colors, shapes, rhythms, sounds, and other aspects of visual art or music. Relatedly, they are often able to deeply connect with pieces emotionally and “feel” the sentiments behind them. This might mean that you are able compose or perform dimensional and complex works of art or music — or simply tend to enjoy them.
7. You know yourself.
While not all HSPs are introverts, many feel a deep connection with their inner selves. And, because HSPs are generally deep thinkers, they often spend a lot of time in their own heads becoming familiar with the ways they think and feel. As an HSP, you may be quite introspective and have a strong understanding of what makes you the most comfortable and happy.
8. You’re conscientious.
HSPs who are well-connected with their own mind tend to be acutely aware of their behaviors and how they appear to the world. They generally have a good understanding of their environments and know the expectations of how to best present themselves to others. As an HSP, you are likely inclined to put forth your best efforts with anything that you do and consistently strive to make personal improvements.
9. You’re empathetic.
HSPs generally feel emotions very strongly — both their own and other people’s. They are typically very understanding and aware of others’ thoughts and feelings, allowing them to make deep connections. As an HSP, you may be seen as a caring and compassionate person who innately knows how to help others feel more comfortable and happy.
10. You’re a devoted friend/partner.
Because HSPs often value deep connections, they are able to utilize their strong emotional capacity in their relationships. They are typically very in tune with their own feelings, as well as others’, which means they are usually able to be vulnerable and encourage their friends and partners to be as well. This suggests that, as an HSP, you are likely to be very supportive and comforting and willing to do whatever it takes to help ease others’ emotional burdens.
The Truth is, Sensitive is Strong
There’s no doubt that being a highly sensitive person comes with its own challenges, but it is important to remember that it also comes with many advantages as well. The common personality traits that often present themselves in HSPs can be utilized in positive ways.
Dr. Elaine Aron, the psychologist most known for pioneering the study of high sensitivity, says that recognizing your strengths is one of the most important steps for thriving as an HSP. Similarly, accessing these strengths may help you to feel more comfortable and connected with yourself, others, and your environment.
As someone who feels everything a bit more deeply than most people do, you can take comfort in knowing that your traits can actually be beneficial and utilized as “sensitive superpowers.”
