Do you tend to feel emotions more deeply than others? Have people told you that you are too sensitive? People do seem to feel things more or less deeply than others. You may be what they refer to as a Highly Sensitive Person or HSP. Below you can find out if you fit into this category and if so, what to do about it.
How to tell if you are a highly sensitive person
More sensitive to stimuli
Bright lights, noises and crowds may overwhelm you. If you are an HSP, these things may bother you more than the average person. You might avoid these places or go but struggle with the situation.
More empathetic
You feel deeply for others and may take on their moods. The emotional atmosphere of the home or group impacts you. Intuition is one of your strong points.
Rich inner life
You may be more creative and moved by art and music, and all the beauty of your surroundings.
Startle easily
Some people startle more easily than others. I have an office mate who is easily startled. Of course it may be for other reasons, but I know when I walk down to her office that I try to make noise so she is aware that I am coming.
Recharge with down time
Highly sensitive people need more peace and quiet. They relish in alone time as it recharges their batteries. It gives them time to process the events of the day.
Conscientious
These people have a keen attention to detail.
Just because you possess some of these traits doesn’t mean you are a highly sensitive person. However, if you notice that you posses a lot of these characteristics perhaps you are an HSP. Also remember that there are many positive qualities of being a highly sensitive person.
What to do if you are a highly sensitive person
Acknowledge it
As I said above, there are positive traits of being an HSP. There are some challenges that go along with it too. Recognize that this is who you are and that it is OK.
Practice self-care if you are a highly sensitive person
This is critical. Be sure you take time to recharge your batteries. This will make a huge difference. It will help you to tackle the day.
I can’t tell you how many people keep track of their sleep. If you are anxious about it and it impacts you, don’t track it. If you feel rested in the morning, it doesn’t matter what your watch tells you.
Eat healthy and exercise. Try to get enough sleep. These are all things that keep people feeling their best.
One thing that can get in the way of your sleep is to have your phone or alarm clock in sight. The first thing you do is look at it when you are having trouble with your sleep. This only increases anxiety. Put your phone away from your bedside. Your alarm will ring when it’s time to get up. There is no need for you to know the time.
Boundaries
Just say no. People will take as much from you as you will give them. If you are overwhelmed or have too much on your plate it is OK to say no, whether someone asks you a favor, or to spend time together. You know yourself better than anyone else. Honor you.
Remember, boundaries are not to make other people happy, they are to protect you. Some people will be upset with you for setting a boundary. That is OK. If this happens on a regular basis, you might need to limit your time with these people.
Surround yourself with people who support you
These are the people that respect your boundaries. They understand if you get overwhelmed and have your back. Maybe these people are sensitive like you or just love you for your sensitivity.
Do things that nurture you
What helps you recharge your batteries? Is it alone time, time in nature, engaging in a hobby or time with a pet? We all have different needs. Honor yours.
Practice mindfulness
Have you ever tried being mindful? It’s about being present in the moment. Each moment is different. Focus on your 5 senses and be aware of what is going on. You might want to try mindful teeth brushing, hand washing or showering. These are things we do on a regular basis. Most of us do things mindlessly.
For example, if you are going to mindfully brush your teeth notice the smell of the toothpaste, the texture of it in your mouth and its taste. Listen to the sound of the water running out of the faucet and the temperature of it. Be aware of the texture of your toothbrush against your teeth. Feel the water swishing around in your mouth and the sound of you spitting the toothpaste into the sink. Watch the water go down the drain. When you think about it, there is a lot to pay attention to.
Seek help if you are a highly sensitive person
If you feel that your sensitivity gets in the way of your work, home or personal life, therapy can help. Please give me a call at 713-304-6554.
Take care,
Debbie
