Have you ever been told you are too sensitive? I have. I tend to feel emotions to the extreme. Big waves of emotion. I can easily detect when energy shifts in a room or conversation and I have a tendency to be affected by the feeling and emotions of those around me.
I grew up with the belief that I was too sensitive. That my feelings were too much for other people. Then I found performing. A perfect outlet for my sensitivity. A safe place where accessing my emotions and expressing them is not only okay but celebrated. It was like finding oxygen. My big emotions were actually considered to be an asset!
When I say sensitive, I don’t mean being unapproachable or crying everywhere you go. I am talking about a heightened awareness of the world around you and how it affects you and the people around you. I believe the word sensitive is one of those words that has adopted a somewhat negative connotation and is often times used in place of calling someone weak or when someone is over reacting.
Sensitive: quick to detect or respond to slight changes, signals, or influences.
I learned to developed two kinds of selves that I would share with people. The one that was an open hearted artist and the person who was afraid to engage in their everyday life because it would be too much for me and for everyone else around me. The second person learned to suppress the impulses and emotions they would feel, ultimately leading to breakdowns and burnout.
This episode is my story and journey of how I learned to marry the two sides of myself, lead a more balanced life, and how creating boundaries in my life allowed me to move freely through the world as a sensitive person who has “all the feels” on a daily basis.
Are You Too Sensitive?
As promised in the episode! My Personal Boundaries list!
- Do I feel safe with this person or situation; physically, mentally and emotionally?
- Can I make mistakes/fail in front of this person with out fear of being criticized?
- Does this person respect my wishes (not agree)?
- Does this person add value to my life?
- Do I feel this person is open and ready to engage in honest communication?
- Does this person look for the humour in situations and not take themselves too seriously?
Did you enjoy the podcast?
What spoke to you the most today? Let me know by leaving a comment below!
