We all have some situations and words painfully carved into our memories that trigger our deepest insecurities. For me, one of the most terrifying sentences that immediately made me anxious and frustrated, was “You are too sensitive”.
According to a lot of people in my life, this phrase was something that defined my character perfectly. It was often mentioned in a condescending manner and it immediately made me embarrassed and anxious. What was even tragical was the fact that people loved to say this to me in public, where everyone would hear how sensitive I really am.
My life was hell. I always took it personally, I got emotionally overwhelmed, frustrated, annoyed, I could do nothing else than just explode in anger or cry for days. I still carry those painful traumas, until this very day.
However, as grew older I realized that it wasn’t only their cruelty and their intention to bring me down that evoked the hypersensitive part of me. Well-meaning people who were generally kind with me would often talk to me about how sensitive I really am. And I would still feel the anxiety inside of me.
This stayed with me, and as time passed by, I wanted to learn more and more about my nature. After a certain period of reading and getting to know myself, I realized that I am not the only one. And from that moment on I started embracing myself for who I am.
A highly sensitive person.
I learned that HSPs are very perceptive and empathic toward others. They feel everything very deeply and what’s more, they pick up on other people’s emotions as well. Their intuition works like magic. However, I also learned that the consequences of possessing this gift are grave. Because these people get easily overwhelmed, exhausted and judged.
If you relate to this story of mine, chances are, you are also a highly sensitive person. I want you to know that there is nothing wrong with being in touch with your feelings. Here are some reminders that may help you cope with a certain situation in the future:
1. You are the only person responsible for your own feelings.
2. You are not the one who is supposed to fix everyone’s problems. Listening is enough.
3. Putting yourself in situations that overstimulate you is your own fault. Learn to take care of yourself.
4. It’s your own choice whether you’ll listen to your instinct or your anxiety.
5. Taking care of yourself is not a luxury. Self-care is essential. You cannot pour from an empty cup.
6. You cannot change the fact that you have a bit more sensitive nervous system than others. Embrace your differences.
7. You are not strange or crazy for being who you are. There is nothing wrong with you.
8. Being a sensitive person is not a weakness. Sensitivity is the source of understanding, compassion, and depth – traits that are considered strengths.
9. You are not alone in this. Believe it or not, fifteen to twenty percent of the world’s population is highly sensitive.
10. If you feel like crying, cry. You have the right to express your feelings every way you want.
11. You are ashamed because of the story that you keep telling yourself. Accept yourself the way you are and don’t let people’s hateful talks ruin your happiness.
12. What people think about you says more of them than of you.
13. For every person that hates you, judges you, despises you there is someone who loves you deeply and appreciates you for who you truly are.
14. Don’t beg people to understand you or like you. Find a way to do that yourself.
15. It is perfectly fine to leave a relationship that doesn’t help you grow.
16. People and situations will drain you only if you allow them to. Remember, you choose who you let inside your world.
17. Your feelings matter.
18. Just because someone thinks that you are too sensitive, it doesn’t mean that you are doing something wrong.
19. Your life is your own business. You don’t owe people an explanation for what you do.
20. You have the right to end a conversation if someone violates your boundaries.
