6 Signs You’re A Highly Sensitive Person, Even As An Extrovert
As humans, we all have a sense of and capability for empathy. Though our capacities for it might differ, we can all take on the feelings of those around us, especially those of our friends.
What about when you feel that all the time, though? When that empathy is constantly running, or when it feels more powerful than normal? In this case, you might just be an HSP, or highly sensitive person, a label that affects all who carry it differently.
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Strong Feelings
Have you ever felt overwhelmed by your surroundings on an emotional level or deeply affected by the feelings of others, more than you believe to be normal? You might be a highly sensitive person (HSP). This trait, while often misunderstood, is actually quite common, though it isn't without its challenges.
HSPs are often thought to be introverts, as their social overwhelm and more introspective nature lend themselves more to introversion, but there are plenty of extroverted HSPs as well. Here, you'll find the common traits of an HSP and how they might apply differently for more extroverted people.
1. You Feel Emotions Intensely And Deeply
One sign of being a highly sensitive person is experiencing emotions on a uniquely profound level. Whether it's joy, sadness, or anger, your feelings are far more intense than the average person's. This deep emotional capacity allows you to connect with others in deeply meaningful ways, but it can also leave you feeling drained.
Even as an extrovert, the emotional energy you expend as an HSP during these interactions can be significant. No matter your personality, no matter how much you love the people you spend time with, HSPs need time to recover after taking on an empathic overload.
2. You're Easily Overwhelmed By Loud Noises And Bright Lights
Highly sensitive people often have heightened sensory perceptions, making them more susceptible to being overwhelmed by loud noises and bright lights. This sensitivity can be challenging, especially in bustling environments like concerts, parties, or crowded streets, places where it's hard to escape to somewhere quiet and still.
While extroverts enjoy social gatherings and lively events, your sensory sensitivity can still make these experiences overwhelming at times. Be sure to find a balance that allows you to enjoy these events without feeling overstimulated. Consider taking breaks or finding quieter spots within noisy environments to help manage this sensory overload.
3. You Need Time Alone To Recharge Even Though You Love Socializing
While extroverts typically gain energy from social interactions, highly sensitive extroverts often need time alone to recharge. This need for solitude might seem contradictory, but it's essential for maintaining your emotional and mental health. Spending time alone allows you to process your experiences and recover from the sensory and emotional stimulation of socializing.
Balancing your need for social interaction with your need for solitude can be challenging. It's important to listen to your body, heart, and mind, giving yourself permission to take breaks and spend time alone when necessary.
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4. You're Highly Empathetic, Often Putting Others' Needs Before Your Own
Empathy is a defining trait of highly sensitive people. Because of your natural ability to understand and share the feelings of others, you often put their needs before your own. This empathy makes you a compassionate and caring friend, but it can also lead to emotional exhaustion if you don't take care of your needs alongside those of your friends.
Extroverted HSPs need to pay careful attention to how much of other peoples' feelings they're taking on, seeing as they're around others so often. It's so important to set boundaries and prioritize your own needs to avoid burnout. Remember to take care of yourself first sometimes.
5. You Are Deeply Moved by Art, Music, And Nature
Highly sensitive people often have a profound appreciation for art, music, and nature. They can all evoke strong emotional responses, providing a sense of joy, inspiration, and solace in the burdened heart of an HSP. Your sensitivity allows you to connect with the beauty and depth of these experiences in ways that others might not.
As an extrovert, you might enjoy sharing these experiences with others, either by discussing your favorite artworks or going to live shows. Don't forget to take time to enjoy these moments alone, though, allowing yourself to fully immerse in the emotional and sensory richness they offer.
6. You're Highly Detail-Oriented, Noticing Things Others Might Miss
Attention to detail is another common trait of highly sensitive people. You have a keen eye for noticing things that others might overlook, whether it's a subtle change in someone's mood or a small detail in your environment. This attention to detail is often a valuable asset in both your personal and professional life.
For extroverts, your detail-oriented nature can better your relationships, as you're able to pick up on and respond to subtle cues. However, this heightened awareness can also be overwhelming at times, especially in busy environments.
Sensitive But Strong
Being an HSP, or even simply being a highly empathic person, will always have its struggles, but the benefits far outweigh the burdens. Even for the most extroverted HSP, being able to have such a strong connection with people, emotions, and the flow of energy in a space will always be a beautiful talent to possess. You may be left feeling drained after, but it's well worth it.
The important part of managing the aspects of being an HSP is allowing yourself enough time to rest. For extroverts, this importance is doubled. Never forget yourself and your own needs among everyone else's. You need to care for yourself most of all.
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