5 Tips for Coping with Unexpected Challenges
Every life has ups and downs.
Unexpected difficulties are hard for everyone, but can be especially challenging for those at the high end of the sensitivity spectrum.
Being a highly sensitive person (HSP) means that you process everything more deeply and for longer (brain scans have confirmed this).
Here are some strategies to help with the unique challenges HSPs can experience when dealing with unexpected hard things:
Give yourself time to process your thoughts and feelings. You might need more time than someone with a less sensitive brain and nervous system, and that’s okay.
Triple-down on self-care. Do a lot more of whatever helps you feel calm and balanced, whether that is quiet time alone, time with friends who lift you up, spending time in nature, listening to music you love, watching comfort movies, etc. Take good care of your body and especially take time to rest - deep processing takes a lot of energy.
Uncover your worst fears. Journal about your worst fears (or talk with a trusted listener). Keep asking yourself, what am I most afraid of? And then what am I afraid would happen? If you keep asking yourself, eventually you’ll get to your deepest fear. Getting it out of your head and onto paper where you can examine it objectively and even make a plan in the unlikely event it happens can be very reassuring for the fearful part of the brain.
Expect big feelings. HSPs tend to have stronger emotions than less sensitive people. Accepting all your emotions, including the ones that don’t feel great such as fear, shame, grief, anger, etc. can be super helpful to not get stuck. Get help if you need it to process and move through your big emotions.
Be kind to yourself. Think about how you would treat a friend who was going through a similar difficult time. What would you say to them? What would you do for them? Can you turn that natural HSP kindness to yourself?
Our culture gives us a lot of messages about how we should be tough, bounce back, not let things bother us, etc.
But, for an HSP, acknowledging and working with your sensitive brain and nervous system rather than trying to fight against it will be a lot more effective for you in the long run.
Love,
Liz
