It goes without saying that some people are more sensitive and prone to empathy than others.  Emotionally sensitive, and intuitive people are often told they “overthink” or are “too sensitive”. For some, these comments feel like insults, but in fact, there are some considerable advantages that come along with being “extra” sensitive. While writing my book I did a fair amount of reading on the subject. There are many ways to classify sensitivity, but generally speaking some people just feel things more deeply than the average person.

I can relate.

For example, when I hear something troubling in the news, it lingers with me for days sometimes weeks at a time. For this reason, I avoid watching the news or reading certain articles because they make me feel so terrible.

If this is you, read on.

Advantages to being extra “Sensitive & Empathetic”

• You care about people. You’re aware of their feelings and you want what’s best for them.

• You don’t want to offend or upset anyone.

• You’re a valuable team player

Disadvantages:

•  You’re a people pleaser. You need and want acceptance and approval from others.

• You take things personally or sometimes misread situations.

•  You feel misunderstood.

I also wanted to see what the Bible says about this.

• Romans 12:15 Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep.
• Philippians 2:4 Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.
• Galatians 6:2 Bear ye one another’s burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ.

In other words, pray for the right kind of sensitivity. Sensitivity to the needs of others and sensitivity to the Lord’s Spirit.

The #bekind #kindness revolution is in full swing. It’s printed on t-shirts, on coffee mugs, dog collars, bumper stickers, pretty much everywhere you look. Being kind is absolutely necessary, especially when we don’t know anything about the people we encounter on a daily basis (sometimes even those who are closest to us).

Kindness Matters.. yes, but perhaps we should take it a step further.

Recognize that not all people are wired to be exactly the same; emotions, feelings, perceptions vary from one person to the next. Taking the time to truly understand this concept might spare ourselves and others a whole lot of hurt.

On the flip side… We cannot control the behaviors and actions of others. Being a sensitive person is a wonderful and beautiful characteristic, but it can also sabotage relationships and create unnecessary waves.

“The moment you realize not everyone is going to like you, is the moment you take your power back.”

It has taken a lot of self-reflecting for me to absorb the above quote. I’m that bubbly-talkative person making my way around the room, meeting new friends. Not everyone in that room will want to want to be my friend. I instantly pick up on that energy and feel bad.

I want everyone to like me.

Becoming more self-aware has allowed me to overcome that negativity and grants me permission to stay true to myself. Redirecting my energy towards understanding who I am, my goals, my values and my passions has been far more rewarding. In doing so, I’ve accomplished some pretty amazing things.

I know will be the same for you 🤍

Oxox,

Shannon