Blooming or Wilting as a Sensitive, Creative Person
As an artist or creator, we are likely to have the temperament or personality trait of sensory processing sensitivity.
Especially over the past couple of years, more and more is being posted (not always accurately) about HSPs: highly sensitive or high sensory people.
Psychologist Elaine Aron began researching high sensitivity in 1991 and continues to publish books and other material.
She has summarized the trait and experience with the DOES Acronym :
D is for Depth of Processing
O is for Overstimulation
E is for Emotional Reactivity and Empathy
S is for Sensing the Subtle
Julie Bjelland, LMFT is a therapist and author specializing in the trait of high sensitivity. This video includes some of her perspectives on thriving - or not.
Even if you don't consider yourself highly sensitive, maybe you can relate.
In one of her podcasts (the source of the audio in my video), she uses the metaphor of highly sensitive people as orchids, and notes:
HSPs who are wilting (and not blooming) often experience:
* Feeling stuck, overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, or having a hard time coping with the state of intense stress in your life and the world
* Having difficulty being productive
* Low energy and motivation
* Feeling tired, depleted or difficulty sleeping
HSPs who are blooming in the world…
* You feel strong and resilient which helps you stay balanced and healthy.
* You have the energy to be productive and accomplish your goals.
* You sleep well and wake up rested and restored each day.
* You are able to pause, reflect, and respond.
Hear the full podcast episode and learn about her courses, podcasts, free webinars and more, in article How You Can Thrive More As A Highly Sensitive Person.
Another article on the topic (on my Highly Sensitive site) includes videos and quotes by Mayim Bialik, Alanis Morissette, Bruce Springsteen, and much more: How to more fully realize your strengths and gifts as a Highly Sensitive Person.