Updated: Dec. 22, 2023
Originally Published: Oct. 2, 2016
A little while back, I was chatting with a friend about the rollercoaster of parenting, the ups and downs of everyday life, and the chaotic nature of current events. After listening to my emotional rants and tearful musings, she remarked, “You seem to feel things more intensely than most.”
How right she was. I’m definitely a person who experiences emotions on a grand scale. Many might label me as a highly sensitive person (HSP) — someone who is particularly attuned to the feelings around them. I’m often described as thin-skinned or overly empathetic, with emotions that run deep. I have strong feelings about just about everything.
For those who don’t identify as an HSP, let me shed some light on what this experience is like. And for those who do, you’ll certainly resonate with this.
The Weight of Empathy
As a person with heightened emotions, feelings of self-doubt and regret are all too familiar. You tend to overthink decisions, often reflecting on conversations long after they’ve occurred, wondering if you could have said something differently. The end result is usually a nagging sense that you’ve messed up.
When you’re highly empathetic, your concern extends to a myriad of issues, from social injustice to whether your friends will judge you for skipping out on holiday cards. It’s frustrating when others don’t seem to care as deeply as you do, leading you to question if there’s something wrong with you for caring so much.
You often feel overwhelmed by the world’s heartbreak, not to mention the small frustrations of daily life. You dive wholeheartedly into causes you’re passionate about, only to find yourself emotionally drained and needing a break. The reality is, no one can tackle everything.
The Gift of Sensitivity
Being highly empathetic means that you experience joy, compassion, and sorrow as if they were your own. It’s not just about feeling for others; it’s about truly understanding and sharing in their experiences. This deep connection reinforces the belief that we should care for one another, as we’re all in this together.
However, this intense empathy can lead to feelings of confusion and conflict. There are rarely clear-cut answers, and the world is filled with gray areas. Sometimes, it’s easier to simplify things and ignore the complexities, even if it means shutting out some perspectives. It’s a coping mechanism to avoid being emotionally overwhelmed.
While being an overly empathetic, sensitive person can feel burdensome, it ultimately serves as a gift. Our sensitivity allows us to absorb both the negative — like distressing news about global issues — and the positive, like the warmth of a friend’s kindness. These powerful emotions often drive us to take action and foster deeper connections with others.
Practicing Self-Care
For those of us who are highly sensitive, practicing self-care is essential. Narrowing our focus can be beneficial, and taking breaks from the news can provide relief. Spending quality time with close friends rather than large crowds can also be restorative. Resources like therapy and medication might be helpful as well.
However, perhaps the most important lesson is self-acceptance. This is who I am: an empathetic, sensitive individual. Though I sometimes wish for a thicker skin, I embrace my sensitivity. As author Iain S. Thomas wisely said, “Be soft. Do not let the world make you hard. Do not let the pain make you hate.”
So yes, we are those deeply feeling, thin-skinned individuals. Despite the chaos around us, we choose to remain soft. We resist bitterness and hold onto the belief that the world is, indeed, a beautiful place — a belief we share with our children too.
Further Reading
If you’re interested in exploring more about home insemination, check out this insightful blog post at Intracervical Insemination. For those looking for authoritative guidance, Make a Mom provides valuable resources, and Kindbody offers excellent insights on pregnancy and home insemination.
Conclusion
In summary, being highly empathetic comes with its challenges, but it also grants us a unique perspective and the ability to connect deeply with others. Embracing our sensitivity can be empowering, leading us to foster understanding and hope in a world that often feels overwhelming.