THE SENSITIVITY TRAIT

Research by trained professionals is showing that 1 in 5 people process emotions and events more deeply. As they go through their day, they will notice things that others don’t notice, and their brains will light up more while processing this information. That’s the non-scientific summary of what happens on a physiological level.

Many of us have seen this in ourselves, probably throughout our lifetime. We may have been called sensitive or a cry baby. We may have been told to stop being so picky or hypervigilant. We have sensed beings or energies that other people can’t see or feel. We may have been labeled with anxiety or nervousness. We’ve often had more sensitive stomachs or bodies that can become sick more easily.

Because of all the ways that we are sensitive, judgements by well-meaning family, friends, teachers, etc., have taught us to judge ourselves in similar ways. Although they may have been well-meaning, and some not so, we have learned to questions ourselves. What is wrong with us?

Why are we this way or that way. All these other people aren’t so sensitive, nervous, exhausted, hypervigilant, etc. Why are we?

So, I have one word for you. STOP IT. Actually, that’s 2 words but the leading sentence sounded so powerful!

​We must STOP thinking something is wrong with us. Would we say that to a small child we love unconditionally? To a friend? To anyone else BUT ourselves? Most likely not, and if we do this kind of judging in general, that’s material for another blog.

NUMBER ONE.
​So, the very first thing we can do in embracing our sensitive trait is to STOP CRITICIZING ourselves. What’s the use of this criticism? Sensitivity is a trait that we were given at birth, that is somehow meant to be a gift here on earth. It’s a gift to ourselves, and a gift to others. If we continue to bash our sensitivities, how will we ever be able to affectively support and use them? So, from today on, make a commitment to yourself to take time to notice how you talk to yourself about your sensitivity. How you are critical. Then STOP IT! When you see yourself going into that place, “Something is wrong …”, stop midway through that thought. Let there be a void if you must. Say something like Louise Hay would say, “Thank you for sharing. Bye. Bye.”

NUMBER TWO.
Replace the thoughts with positive statements about yourself. This is so important. And oftentimes as we begin this process, all those judgements and negative thoughts come out in droves. It’s okay, thank them for sharing and tell them you are in charge now. Tell them you are not going to criticize or limit yourself with these thoughts. Then say some present-tense, positive statements:

• Of course, I’m sensitive, it’s a wonderful trait I inherited at birth.
• Thank you, sensitivity, for communicating with me.
• I hear you, and I choose to honor you.
• I love my sensitivities. They are here to inform and protect me.

Continue to write your own affirmations. Take those criticisms that emerge as you are starting your affirmations and turn them on their heads. Flip them to something positive. You can do this.

NUMBER THREE. 
Begin to be curious about your sensitivities. What is this sensitivity showing me? Am I truly listening to what it is presenting to me? How should I respond to this new information?

SUMMARY.
The Sensitive Trait is meant to work for you, and not be a daily challenge. But, for many, it has become a challenge in daily life - relationships, career, health and more. So, take a moment to start using these tools. And see how your life begins to transform.

Until next time, Be Kind to Yourself.

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