Are you an HSP too? Here’s how I turned sensitivity into my superpower.
Apr 29, 2025
I didn't find out I was #HSP until I was 53 years old!
The biggest tangible benefit is that it allows me to be so much kinder to myself.
I've always felt a bit misunderstood. Sometimes labelled as "high maintenance" when I wanted the music turned down at a restaurant or start crying when someone says something critical. Now I get it! I feel seen. And better yet, I better understand myself!
Being a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP) - a trait identified by psychologist Dr. Elaine Aron - means you process sensory information more deeply than average. This isn’t a disorder; it’s a personality trait found in about 15–20% of the population. Like anything in life, it comes with benefits and disadvantages.
Let me know in the comments if you have ever felt any HSP traits popping up for you (and if you have any tricks to share)!
Pros of Being a Highly Sensitive Person
|
Strength |
Description |
|
Empathy and Compassion |
You deeply understand others’ emotions, making you a caring friend, leader, or teammate. |
|
Deep Thinker |
You reflect deeply, which supports strong decision-making, creativity, and emotional intelligence. |
|
Creative and Intuitive |
HSPs often excel in the arts, writing, design, and innovation due to a rich inner world. |
|
Attuned to Environment |
You notice subtle changes others might miss—useful in leadership, teaching, design, or safety roles. |
|
Emotionally Aware |
You have a strong internal barometer for values, motivation, and interpersonal dynamics. |
|
Conscientious |
You take your commitments seriously and aim to do things well, often exceeding expectations. |
Cons of Being a Highly Sensitive Person
|
Challenge |
Description |
|
Easily Overstimulated |
Loud noises, crowds, or chaotic environments can quickly become overwhelming. |
|
Emotionally Absorbing |
You may take on others’ stress, anxiety, or sadness, especially in intense or negative settings. |
|
Difficulty with Criticism |
Feedback—even if constructive—can feel deeply personal, leading to rumination. |
|
Need for More Downtime |
You often require solitude or rest after social or stimulating experiences. |
|
Perfectionism or Overthinking |
High conscientiousness can lead to decision paralysis or burnout if not managed carefully. |
|
Conflict-Averse |
Confrontation or tension can feel disproportionately stressful or physically uncomfortable. |
Here are some ways that I thrive as an HSP
- I set strong boundaries to protect my energy and emotional well-being.
- I build routines that include rest, quiet time, and nature.
- I practice self-compassion to avoid harsh self-judgment.
- I communicate my needs to those around me clearly and calmly.
- I use my sensitivity as a superpower in work that requires empathy, precision, or insight.
Now I'm brimming over with structures and systems and tricks to cope with it, I've honestly never been happier!
Do you consider your HSP or neurdivergence a super-power?
Or a pain in the frontal lobe?
