Uniquely Sensitive People: Who Are They? Who Are We?

Just imagine what the world might be like if the Uniquely Sensitive People were in charge. Shopping malls, if they existed, would play soothing music at low volumes, have plenty of fresh air and windows that could be opened, eliminate the flashing lights and have quiet places to sit. Restaurants would be designed such that you could talk in a normal tone and be heard by your dinner mates. Television would stop emphasizing violence and focus more on the good stuff of life. Oh, those could be the days...

What is a Uniquely Sensitive Person, you may be asking. We don't recall the first time we heard the term, but we do know it was shortly after the book, "The Highly Sensitive Person," by Elaine Aron, was released. It's best to read the book to get a full view, yet in the spirit of explanation, we'll give a few bullet points here:

20% of the population is neurologically wired differently. This means their nervous systems take in more information that the other 80%, and process it on a much deeper level. It's common for something they've experienced to stay with them much longer than it would with those in the (80%) majority of our population.

They may hear that they need tougher skin. "Relax!" "Get over It" "You're too sensitive." are phrases hurled in their direction frequently. They tend to be emotional and feel things deeply.

They notice the little things in their environment. This makes them attentive to what fabrics they wear (that pesky label must be removed), what type of food they eat (and how often), how well they sleep (think princess and the pea), and what perfume the person next to them is wearing.

Why are we bringing this up? Because Leslie + Kris are Uniquely Sensitive People and we spent our lives up until we heard the term, wondering what was wrong with us. In light of this new information, we understand that there are many like us; in fact, a quick poll of those we enjoy being with shows that many of them are uniquely sensitive, too - who knew!  Oprah often says when you know better you do better. Applying that to this newfound knowledge about being sensitive, ponder these questions:

Many may feel that there is something wrong with them because of their unique sensitivity. Reframing this thought, how could you view your sensitivity as a good thing?

Uniquely Sensitive People are frequently connected to others, animals and the planet on a deep level. How can this be used to enrich the lives of you and those around you?

What is the best way you can take care of yourself? Perhaps it is eating more frequently, visiting spas, meeting with a group of supportive friends who share your trait, or giving yourself permission to stay in the house one day a week.

Learning about and living as a Uniquely Sensitive Person can at once be challenging and the most rewarding thing you'll ever do. Owning our own businesses, coaching one on one clients, running workshops and teaching classes, being part of a supportive community - like the Lifestyle Catalysts' neighborhood - have been terrific ways for us to take care of our sensitivity. We encourage you to find the support you need to discover the true contribution that you are, just as you are. Welcome to the neighborhood, where being with others like you amplifies your courage, resolve and motivates you to be the best you you can be.