You’ve been told you’re shy, quiet, and a little too emotional.
You’ve also been told you’re weak, that you cry too much, and you don’t know how to control your emotions.
You’re sensitive. You’re not denying that. But you didn’t think it was as much of a kryptonite for you as the rest of the world is making it seem.
Isn’t there any good that comes out of being a little sensitive from time to time?
Let’s learn more about some of the positive traits of a highly sensitive person.
Empathetic
One of the most well-known and positive signs of a highly sensitive person is their ability to be extremely empathetic. Highly sensitive people have the amazing ability to be able to sense and feel other people’s feelings, needs, and even any insecurities they may be facing. This level of empathy allows them to have greater emotional intelligence and understand other’s emotions, including their own, on a deeper level.
Detail Oriented
Highly sensitive people are extremely detail-oriented. They have the ability to pick up on situations and any changes that have occurred. Highly sensitive people are very perceptive, which means they are able to pinpoint others’ likes and dislikes making them friends with others on a deep level very quickly.
Kindness
Because highly sensitive people are empathetic, they’re also extremely kind. You may have grown up hearing the saying, “Don’t judge a book by its cover”. Or “try walking in their shoes for a day.” Highly sensitive people can do this in a way. They’re able to see things from another person’s point of view, which allows them to be more kind and empathetic to each person’s unique situation.
Problem Solver
Highly sensitive people are extreme problem solvers. They’re extremely attentive to the environment they’re in. Highly sensitive people are able to sense conflict, helping to make them proactive rather than reactive towards it. This action makes them able to reduce or minimize any potential problems or threats that could occur in their life, work, and relationships.
Reflective and Cautious
Highly sensitive people are extremely reflective. This action makes them cautious and better able to think about things before they speak or react. Not many people have this skill in life. This simple action allows them to make connections on a deeper level as well as process the information they take in, allowing them time to come up with an action plan.
Seeks Out Meaning and Purpose
Highly sensitive people are literally driven by finding joy in the world they’re living in. Not many highly sensitive people seek joy from material things like clothing, accessories, or monetary items. While most people go to work for a paycheck, highly sensitive people will seek careers or jobs that they feel called to do. Highly sensitive people find joy in finding meaning in what they’re providing into the universe as well as their purpose in the world.
Next Steps
Being a highly sensitive person can come with positives as well as negatives. While being a highly sensitive person can often be seen as a bad thing or have a bad reputation, highly sensitive people are needed in this world. There is absolutely nothing wrong with being a highly sensitive person. In fact, if you’re able to better manage some of the downsides of being a highly sensitive person, you’ll be able to tap into the more positive aspects of it. If you’re struggling with all of the thoughts, feelings, and emotions tied to being a highly sensitive person, you’re not alone. Reach out to us today to set up a consultation for anxiety therapy.
About the author(s)
Karen is the founder and Clinical Director of Cohesive Therapy NYC. She earned a Masters in Social Work from New York University and has extensive training in Hypnosis, Anxiety, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Brainspotting, and DGBI. She is a member of the Institute of Certified Anxiety Treatment Professionals, The Rome Foundation, the National Association of Social Workers, The Crohn's and Colitis Foundation, and the American Social of Clinical Hypnosis.