HSP's: Experts say 15-20% of us inherit this perceptiveness and that it can be a great asset.
Signs of this trait:
- sensitive to noise, bright light, colours, temperature, smells, tastes, textures (hard to find the zone of "just right")
- more aware of people's feelings
- conscientious & caring
- pause before taking action
- vivid imagination
- think deeply about everything they notice
- need & enjoy time alone every day
As you can see, this trait brings advantages and diadvantages, which can depend on a culture's outlook. In Sweden, Japan, & China, children with this trait are admired, popular. In North American culture, we are told to "toughen up" or "don't be shy." Many of my clients are HSP's and have reported feeling misunderstood: they are not shy or weak, they just notice subtle differences and think about what these could mean. In other words, they are quite wise. Getting others to understand this is difficult. (I've taught HSP's how to do this).
What HSP is Not:
- It is not emotional sensitivity.
- It is not being easily hurt, offended by what others say & do.
This is something separate from HSP (although you could have both, or one without the other, or neither). Emotionality can hinder relationships, happiness, & success, but it can be reduced, with practice (I've helped people do this). The HSP trait can not be reduced. Nor does it need to be.
The HSP trait can lead to feeling overwhelmed or overstimulated in our noisy, crowded, busy world. Most HSP's find life is better once coping strategies are learned & used (I teach these).
I am fortunate to have been born with this trait, which helps me be an effective counsellor and instructor. If you have it, it helps you notice subtle things about people and understand what you are picking up, and the best ways to help people. It helps you make many wise choices and learn without being aware you are learning. It brings many strengths, once you have learned how to use them (I help HSP's do this).
If you are interested in finding out more about how I help HSP's, please click on the pages about my seminars and my background, and then contact me @ 604 868-0958
