Five Superpowers of Highly Sensitive People
Inner Life Therapy in Oregon specializes in helping highly sensitive people (HSPs) to transform their anxiety and depression, cope with the stresses they often face, and enhance self-esteem. Being a highly sensitive person means you are likely to feel things more deeply, become overwhelmed by stimuli, and may have perfectionistic tendencies.
HSPs are neurodivergent individuals thought to have increased central nervous system sensitivity to stimuli, whether physical, social, or emotional. Frequently told they are “too sensitive” or “think too much”, HSPs have increased responses to positive and negative stimuli, which can be both a strength and a challenge.
HSPs are thought to comprise approximately 20% of the general population, and high sensitivity exists in many other species besides human beings. Research suggests high sensitivity is an evolutionary trait which increases the likelihood of survival by way of increased awareness of dangerous situations and predators. High sensitivity is hereditary, is not a form of autism or ADHD, but can occur alongside other mental health conditions.
HSPs often avoid violent television or movies, are overwhelmed by crowds, noise, bright lights, smells, etc., and feel the need for downtime. They also have deep thoughts and feelings; and are deeply moved by beauty. The five superpowers of HSPs are empathy, creativity, sensory intelligence, depth of processing and depth of emotion. Accepting and cultivating these super-powers is the key to fulfilling our highest potential as highly sensitive people.
Empathy allows HSPs to care deeply about people and form deep bonds with them. Their empathy can be seen in brain scans, and is very powerful in understanding and being supportive to friends and loved ones. HSPs can empathize with others on a level that most people cannot access, enabling a deep understanding of others emotional states, sadness and joy, and helping other people feel safe around them.
Creativity is a great strength of HSPs. Highly sensitive people have a huge depth of feeling, and notice beauty in ordinary things others often miss. They see, hear, smell, and feel things that other people don’t. Because of their deep connections, HSPs are frequently incredibly creative through words, music, painting, etc., in a way that comes from a place beyond intellect, and touches the souls of others.
Sensory intelligence is the way we experience the world through our senses. HSPs take in more information from the environment, helping them make better decisions based on that information. A defining characteristic of HSPs, sensory intelligence enables a person to sense what is happening around them and rapidly process that information.
Depth of processing relates to the ability of HSPs to see patterns others don’t see, and process information more deeply. HSPs can be good planners, and they typically prefer to engage in more meaningful activities and discussions, calling upon their unique strengths and understanding.
Depth of emotion makes for stronger relationships and a richer life. HSPs are exceptional listeners and empathetic friends, making it easier for people to trust and feel safe with them. People feel heard, seen, and understood in the presence of highly sensitive people.
Learning to understand, accept, and cultivate your super-powers as a highly sensitive person is the key to unlocking your potential, owning your unique gifts, celebrating your sensitivity and your potential to help others in powerful ways.