How to Get Through Life Being a Highly Sensitive Person

It used to be called “overly sensitive,” which can make you feel like having your feelings is wrong. Now that there is more understanding about this personality type, being a highly sensitive person (HSP) is no longer something to hide or be ashamed of.

There will always be people who will scoff at the idea and others who can’t figure out why you are sensitive to things that don’t seem to bother them. If you haven’t had the experience, then it truly is hard to understand. It is not depression or anxiety, although sometimes it can feel like both on steroids—it is just the way some folks deal with life on Earth. And I don’t think it’s a choice.

Most HSPs wouldn’t choose to go through life this way, but giving it up isn’t really possible. I’m not saying people can’t grow, and if you wanted to, I imagine you could build a tougher skin, at least on the surface. But I think that the sensitivity will always find a way to the top. It also has many wonderful components that can balance out the difficulties.

Highly sensitive people look for calmness in life. They lean toward jobs where they can be helpful to others and try to avoid the stress and pressure that is all too common. These are the kind of people you want to talk to if you have an issue, because they will understand your pain and can relate, which is very helpful.

HSPs can also find themselves in creative careers. There are many highly sensitive artists, writers, and performers. Unfortunately, that lifestyle can bring with it many of the things that are upsetting to an HSP—staff problems, demands on your time, and having to do something when you are feeling overwhelmed are only some of the issues.

Yes, these are things that most humans have to deal with—highly sensitive or not—so it’s something you need to teach yourself how to do if it doesn’t come naturally. You probably won’t need that particular skill set 24/7, but it does come in handy a lot of the time. Many HSPs have to learn to at least act the part to get where they want to go. Just because you’re sensitive doesn’t mean you have no ambitions.

It also doesn’t mean you aren’t taking care of business or yourself. HSPs are actually better at self-care than most individuals. Taking a warm bath or a hot shower at the end of a long day, having a comfortable bed with nice covers, sheets, and pillows, eating well, and getting exercise are all habits that help keep sensitive people on the right track.

It’s also important to avoid emotional triggers, which is not the same as avoiding life. If you know the news is going to be uncomfortable to watch, for example, don’t turn it on. You may choose to get your updates from the newspaper or online. That way you don’t have to deal with harsh images and shrill voices.

Throughout their lives, HSPs must look for coping tools. As life gets more complicated and less civil, those tools have become more and more invaluable, so it’s a good idea to always be looking. Making your life a nice place to be is not that hard. Embrace your sensitivity and know that there is a place for you here. It’s all about finding balance.