Not many people “get” sensitivity, which can make it difficult to navigate the world. Here are 6 strategies that work for HSPs, even when no one else can.
Like the extremely sensitive person (HSP), it is sometimes (read: often) difficult to explain to others what it is. They may not understand why we have to keep the volume at a certain level (quiet). Or why we always decide to turn on the dimmer light in the hallway (because of our sensitivity to light), while turning on a nearby bright light. Or why even the smallest thing brings tears to our eyes. Not many people “get” sensitivity – and it can make us feel misunderstood or like there’s something “wrong” with us.
But there isn’t.
Don’t forget to be kind to yourself. There are many non-HSPs who are empathic enough to understand our sensitivities – though not enough. Not everyone can easily grasp (or understand) our larger-than-life emotions.
So known how to live in a non-HSP world as a highly sensitive person can be useful throughout the lifetime of the HSP. Here’s how.
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6 Ways Highly Sensitive People Can Survive in a Non-HSP World
1. Know what triggers you, such as unpleasant situations.
First of all, you need to know the root causes – what triggers it and how to deal with it. For example, I always find myself feeling overwhelmed when I’m in large groups of people, especially when I feel stuck there.
Knowing how you feel can determine how you will react to certain situations. Likewise, it helps to say “no” to certain things if you know they trigger you more than other things. Yes, it is related setting boundaries, which is not easy for HSPsbut the more you practice, the easier it gets.
Or maybe you find yourself in an everyday situation, but then deeply sad or upsetting topics come up and you feel demand run away – your sensitive brain he can’t stand it. Non-HSPs may not understand why such topics were not discussed, but you can explain them later. After all, your mental health is important, and sometimes it’s more important to get yourself out of a situation than to suffer social expectations.
2. Explain your sensitivity to friends, family and colleagues.
They say ‘knowledge is power’ and it’s true when it comes down to it he explains his high sensitivity to those around him. This will allow them to understand you better, and who knows, maybe they will realize that they are also a very sensitive person.
However, not everyone will understand – instead of seeing your sensitivity as an asset, they may just think you’re ‘too emotional’ or ‘too sensitive’. Only you can decide if their attitude towards you and your sensitivity makes you feel worse. If so, it’s time to cut them out of your life. That way, you can focus on surrounding yourself with people who truly understand you—whether they’re other HSPs, non-HSPs, or a combination of the two.
3. Don’t do it suppress your emotions – be your authentic self.
You may often be tempted to suppress your emotions around non-HSPs—you may feel frustrated or ashamed that you are more sensitive than others. You are both in the same situation, yet you react more strongly than they do. what about meyou may wonder. In short, nothing.
When you try to hide your feelings, it usually has serious consequences as it overwhelms you and emotional outpouring may occur. At times like these, strategies can help – knowing what works for you and what doesn’t.
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4. Take as much alone time as you need (which is what the HSP needs).
In order to make sure you get the alone time you needyou can schedule it – helping you to prevent yourself from being overwhelmed by the overstimulation you experience. You’ll know you’ll be undisturbed for a set amount of time, and you can choose to enjoy your alone time however you see fit—quietly, reading a book, going for a walk, etc. And if you work or live in a noisy environment, it is crucial that you dedicate this time to yourself. (Also, I recommend ignoring your phone too – texts and emails can wait, trust me.)
5. Use noise canceling headphones to your advantage.
If you live in a place where the atmosphere is downright toxic, loud, and headache-inducing, a good pair of noise-canceling headphones can do wonders. Whether you’re listening to white noise (via an app or a YouTube channel), ASMR (Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response, where you listen to people doing very relaxing things like whispering or brushing their hair) or nothing (headphones are just a decoy to tune people out), relaxation is the name of the game. These all help to rule out everything else, really things that can overwhelm and overstimulate your life.
6. Start a new hobby and do it regularly.
If you need a break from the non-HSP-ness of the world, taking up a new hobby will do the trick. Explore a variety of shows, podcasts, documentaries, videos, books, sports, dance styles/exercises, meditation and mindfulness, music, etc. to help take your mind off the weight of the world and gives you the opportunity to recharge. And when the hobby it becomes part of the routine – which HSPs love – you’re well on your way to feeling less overstimulated and more grounded.
At the end of the day, do what makes you happy
Above all else, the connection to your identity and yourself – and the people you love and who love you the key to a happy life for a very sensitive person. Even if you can’t find such people around you in person, there are plenty of virtual options (such as this site and Very Sensitive Shelter Facebook Group). Both have helped me feel less alone as a highly sensitive person, and I hope they do the same for you.
Unfortunately, the default in this world is for people to keep their emotions to themselves, to not “burden” others with them, or appear “too sensitive.” However, as an HSP, it is very possible to survive—and thrive—in this primarily non-HSP world. I am the proof.
