High sensitivity is a superpower

With a focus on #neurodiversity this month, I want to draw attention today to the trait of high sensitivity.

The term "Highly Sensitive Person" (HSP) was coined by Dr. Elaine Aron to describe a neutral trait that is present in approximately 20% of both human and non-human populations.

HSPs are considered neurodivergent, meaning our brains are wired differently.

Contrary to misconceptions, high sensitivity is not a sign of weakness or hysteria. Instead, it reflects unique abilities.

As someone who once struggled with accepting being a Highly Sensitive Person, I eventually came to appreciate it as a kind of superpower that adds value to my clients.


Here are just a few reasons why sensitivity can be an asset in business:

Here are just a few reasons why sensitivity can be an asset in business:

 

  1. Highly Sensitive People (HSPs) have a unique ability to find innovative solutions to problems.

  2. They are skilled at understanding complex concepts and breaking them down for others to understand.

  3. HSPs have a natural talent for promoting harmony between people and fostering a positive work environment.

  4. They are great at helping others develop and grow.

  5. Highly sensitive individuals love intellectual and new challenges, making them great at adapting to change.

  6. They possess deep analytical skills and can effectively dissect problems to find the root cause.

  7. HSPs can work well independently and have excellent concentration skills.

  8. They are often oriented toward long-term thinking, making them great at strategic planning.

  9. Highly sensitive people have a keen eye for detail and precision.

  10. They take accountability seriously and are focused on delivering results.

 

If you're an HSP, I encourage you to embrace in whatever role you find yourself in:

  • as a leader or manager, high sensitivity can help you better understand and empathize with your team

  • as a colleague, it can help you build stronger relationships and support other people’s growth

  • as a DEI leader, high sensitivity can help you in analyzing data, creating great strategies, find innovative solutions to problems.

Let's celebrate our high sensitivity and use it to bring better solutions.

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