The #1 mistake you’re making trying to fix your sensitivity as a Highly Sensitive Person

(Hey! Just quickly, before we dive in: I'm sharing a version of this blog post over on the podcast. So, if you prefer the audio (or audio-visual) experience, click on those hyperlinks. If written words are more your jam, read on.)

You're a highly sensitive person, right? That can feel hard when the world seems too loud, too bright, too emotional, too much. Maybe, in the face of that challenge, you try to 'fix' yourself - dull your sensitivity down or squish it (like a dirty t-shirt) into the corner while you bravely try to navigate an overwhelming world.

How's that working out for you?

If you're like many highly sensitive people (including me), my guess is that it works, to a point. But it's exhausting. Unsustainable. Lonely, even.

Here's where I want to talk about the number one mistake you're making in trying to fix your sensitivity. It's a mistake we can all make. If you're making it now, please meet yourself compassionately.

The mistake: Believing that your sensitivity needs fixing in the first place.

Yep. Thats the mistake. Is it one you're making?

You see, your sensitivity is not a flaw. It's exactly as it should be because it's a part of you. But yeah, I know - that answer might fall a little flat and feel frustrating. I get it.

As a fellow highly sensitive soul, there are days when I wish I could be less ... delicate. I wish I could manage the loudness and busyness in an altogether more satisfying way.

But maybe it's the systems and structures that aren't right for us, rather than our sensitivity - our makeup - being inherently flawed.

The good news? There is another option; one that doesn't require any talk of 'fixing' something that's not broken. It starts with asking different questions.

Here are three questions you can journal on or contemplate that might just show you some ways you could meet your sensitivity with more compassion, kindness and love.

How would my sensitivity like to be loved?

If I was going to offer my sensitivity its perfect day, what would that be? What would I do (or not do)?

If I want my sensitivity to know that it’s not bad or in need of fixing, what would I tell it? What would I have it believe? 

Take what feels supportive from these questions (and answers) and toss what doesn't. Then, ask yourself one more question:

How can I take some element of this and incorporate it into my day?

No fixing, just supporting, nurturing and loving that beautiful high sensitivity of yours.