Yes! And absolutely... labels can help us think, "Maybe it's ok I'm this way." But, they can also limit how we see ourselves (not just what we do with it). For example, the various characteristics of HSP I experience may not be the same as Mike's. I think the primary advantage here is to be able to recognize that we are unique in all of time and valuable (after all, "There is value in all rarity," as Og Mandino reminds us). Perhaps a primary value of a label is to not feel so alone. But, really, you get to be you. In fact, please be you!
I hear you, I'm HSP as well. Any public setting has the potential to trigger anxiety, but I don't let that define me or stop me from enjoying life. I also know that after being triggered, I need some time to decompress.
Thank you for this! I've been thinking about this for a while as I feel myself caught between two mentors--one who loves personality assessments and the other who is very wary of them :) This speaks to both of their perspectives and offers a beautiful way of honoring both.
I've also been thinking about this a lot with regards to my son. I think that if he were evaluated, he might be diagnosed with autism. I grapple a lot with whether that would be helpful to him or not and how to engage him in the decision (he's 11).
I'll be bookmarking this one for future reference!
Excellent insight!
I share may of those HSP “super powers”, as well as those from ADD and a few others lables.
Thank you for that reminder that though my issues/needs/idiosyncrasies may not be my fault, they ARE my responsibility.
This reminds me of an analogy my former therapist once shared with me…
“You can continue to go through the world demanding soft carpet to protect your tender feet…
Or you can learn to put on your own slippers on.
One path increases conflict and keeps you a victim…
The other path creates autonomy and builds self efficacy.
Only one is a path to peace.”
<>< Kelly Harrington
I found this to helpful and insightful! I appreciate how clearly you explained.
Yes! And absolutely... labels can help us think, "Maybe it's ok I'm this way." But, they can also limit how we see ourselves (not just what we do with it). For example, the various characteristics of HSP I experience may not be the same as Mike's. I think the primary advantage here is to be able to recognize that we are unique in all of time and valuable (after all, "There is value in all rarity," as Og Mandino reminds us). Perhaps a primary value of a label is to not feel so alone. But, really, you get to be you. In fact, please be you!
I hear you, I'm HSP as well. Any public setting has the potential to trigger anxiety, but I don't let that define me or stop me from enjoying life. I also know that after being triggered, I need some time to decompress.
Very helpful!
Thank you for this! I've been thinking about this for a while as I feel myself caught between two mentors--one who loves personality assessments and the other who is very wary of them :) This speaks to both of their perspectives and offers a beautiful way of honoring both.
I've also been thinking about this a lot with regards to my son. I think that if he were evaluated, he might be diagnosed with autism. I grapple a lot with whether that would be helpful to him or not and how to engage him in the decision (he's 11).
I'll be bookmarking this one for future reference!
Why was this not obvious in the first place? lol