So…thinking about HSP. Am I HSP? In my last blog post, I gave you some basic information and definitions about what it means to be HSP or, a Highly Sensitive Person. Of course, these issues are more complex than I can dive into in a simple blog post. But, I think it’s important to understand a few basic principles when trying to consider any kind of label or identifier for yourself that you may or may not be fully comfortable with.
Am I HSP?
One of the things I’ll say right away is that it doesn’t matter! Now, please don’t misunderstand me. And, please keep reading! Obviously, if you’re asking yourself this question and coming across this blog post: “Am I HSP?”, you’ve got questions! You’re curious. This is an identity that you probably already know you hold. And, if you are not really sure but think perhaps you are highly sensitive, who am I to tell you any differently? Who am I to claim, deny, or diagnose via blog post? This is YOUR status as a highly sensitive person in the world! I’m good, but no one is THAT good.
Owning Your HSP Nature
So, my dear, if you are reading this post, asking yourself “Am I HSP?” and thinking that something I’m saying here resonates with you and how you move through the world, feel free to own it. Feel free to let your HSP label, your highly sensitive nature, be fully available for the world to see. You may or may not fit into every single dictionary definition of “Highly Sensitive Person” and, you may or may not feel like HSP is a label that you want to wear everywhere. And, that’s okay! My goal with every post, whether I am talking about radically accepting your sensitive, introverted self, or the curse of a sensitive introverted woman, or naming what it is you REALLY want as a sensitive introvert is the same. Primarily, to help us all feel more accepted, confident, and clear about our right to take up space in the world. To take up space in a way that feels comfortable and congruent internally.
Being HSP in a Chaotic World
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again. The world was NOT built for highly sensitive people. Our world is loud. Chaotic. Messy. Overwhelming. Our world is one of constant change and turmoil that can very quickly trigger the self-protective internal mechanisms of highly sensitive people. This could be why you feel tired all the time. Perhaps, you don’t feel like you can engage with daily news the same way you used to. Maybe, you have to adjust your daily routine based on both external factors and internal changes. As an HSP, you are acutely aware of seemingly subtle changes in the world around you. And, within yourself. You are also aware of the effect those changes have on your being.
What happens to you when…
For example, a bright sunny clear day makes me feel more motivated, hopeful, and focused. This allows me to be more productive overall! Especially for those daily or weekly tasks that have to be done but don’t always give me the same joy and fulfillment as other things might. However, insert some clouds, a grey sky, or even a thunderstorm into the picture, and things change! My more creative, thoughtful, and curious mind may take over. This state allows me to explore bigger questions like this! What do you notice about the world around you and its effect on your daily existence? What about your internal systems? Perhaps, your highly sensitive nature has you more in tune with fluctuations in your mood or hormones. As highly sensitive women, I think we have to explore the connection between hormones and daily function. There are a number of specialists in this area around the world as well.
Introverts, HSPs, Whoever You Are: Be YOU
You may or may not think you are an HSP. You may consider yourself an introverted woman. A sensitive introvert. Or, even a highly sensitive radical introvert who knows what she wants and is ready to reject the limitations the world puts on us every day. Wherever you find yourself on this journey, know you are welcome. Not just welcome, but wanted. You have so much to give to the world. Holding yourself back or spending precious time questioning your HSP nature is probably not serving you.
Next Steps for Highly Sensitive Women
So, you came to this blog post with the question: “Am I HSP?”. Of course, there are a ton of resources, including this website, to help you answer that question. However, what I hope you have gotten today is the permission to radically accept and lean into your highly sensitive nature. Your HSP status. If something I’ve said resonates with you, I would definitely recommend checking out one of my other blog posts about sensitive, introverted women. You can even schedule a consultation call with me (your HSP Coach) to see if we might do amazing things together! Feel free to check out this free audio training for highly sensitive women in the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, and beyond. If nothing else, I am so grateful that you took the time to visit, and hope you find what you need on this journey.