Labels placed on you by teachers, friends, and bullies that accuse you of being “shy”, “too quiet”, “too sensitive”, or “serious” are sticky. The feelings of being different, fragile, or defective linger for years afterward. This is where the seeds of self-doubt and perfectionism begin to be sown.   

What might be available if you listened to your own needs more often? Less overwhelm, more energy, more joy and fulfillment, strong intuition, better sleep, less guilt.  When you begin to recognize the value that your sensitivity brings, you can begin to access more of what your sensitivity has to offer and less of the burdens that come from living a non-HSP lifestyle.    

As another year begins, you get flooded with messages about setting resolutions and making grand changes in your life. Starting this year on your own terms means honoring your needs as a Highly Sensitive Person to make changes more slowly and focus on self-reflection over resolutions.  This approach frees you from the shame of incomplete resolutions and allows you to reconnect with what’s most important.

Learning to put yourself first and honor your unique needs as a highly sensitive person is a process that takes time and practice. Educating yourself on what it means to be highly sensitive, practicing self-compassion and mindfulness, and surrounding yourself with people who support your growth are essential pieces of the puzzle.