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June 5, 2024

8 Common Characteristics between Introverts & Highly Sensitive People.

 

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In a society that frequently values extroversion and an assertive, outgoing demeanor, introverts and highly sensitive people (HSPs) offer a unique array of gifts and qualities.

Though the terms are often used interchangeably, they denote distinct yet occasionally overlapping personality traits.

Below, I’ve highlighted eight common characteristics shared by introverts and HSPs, showcasing some of the remarkable strengths and admirable qualities they both possess.

Deep Thinkers and Reflective Minds

​Introverts and highly sensitive people are often recognized as deep thinkers and introspective individuals. They find comfort and solace in quiet moments of solitude where they can reflect on their inner thoughts and deeper emotions. They are also known to be dreamers with highly vivid imaginations.

This introspective nature frequently leads to profound insights, creative ideas, and inspiration, creating a rich and meaningful inner world that fuels their purpose and passions.

Meaningful Connections

Quality over quantity is the mantra for introverts and highly sensitive people when it comes to friendships and relationships. While they may not thrive and flourish in large social gatherings or at busy events, they do tend to excel in one-on-one interactions.

Deep, meaningful connections energize them, and they value and cherish the authenticity and substance that comes with genuine, personal relationships. Seeking “safe” people who they can be themselves with is the goal for introverts and highly sensitive people. If they are not comfortable in certain environments or around certain people, they will often appear reserved or even a bit guarded. This is how they protect their energy.

Sensitive to Stimuli

​Highly sensitive people are extremely attuned to their surroundings. They may be more sensitive to loud noises, really bright lights, large crowds, or even subtle changes in a person’s mood or energy. This heightened awareness and sensitivity, while occasionally challenging and overwhelming, allows them to notice nuances that others may overlook, contributing to their keen observational skills.

​Introverts also frequently experience overstimulation, which often leads them to seek peace and solitude. Excessive external “noise” can make them feel distracted, stressed, and even anxious. Recognizing their own “triggers” is essential for regulating and balancing their energy and emotions.

Recharge in Solitude

Introverts and highly sensitive people require a lot of alone time to rest and recharge their mental and emotional batteries. Unlike extroverts who tend to thrive in social interactions and who gain energy from stimulating activities, introverts find solace and restoration in quiet, calm, and peaceful environments.

This need for solitude and retreat is not a sign of isolation but rather an essential practice for maintaining their overall health and well-being. If an HSP or an introverted person doesn’t take time to rest and recharge, even mundane “simple” tasks can become challenging. Solitude is crucial for their mental and emotional health.

Creativity Flourishes in Solitude

Many well known writers, musicians, artists, and thinkers often identify as introverts or highly sensitive people. This is not a coincidence; these individuals find their creative energy and inspiration in the quiet spaces of their own minds. The ability to delve deep into their own feelings and thoughts allows them to create works of art, literature, or innovation that often captivates the world.

If there are too many distractions in their environment, and because they are often overstimulated and overwhelmed by too much noise, they cannot fully focus or access the part of their brain where their creative juices flow. This is also a reason why they seem to prefer working alone or for themselves. Silence and solitude is key for the introvert and for the highly sensitive person.​

Excellent Listening Skills

​Introverts and highly sensitive people often excel in active listening. Their ability, and what I believe to be a gift, is the way in which they can tune into the emotions and energy of others. This is what allows them to connect deeply with those around them. This natural ability not only fosters and enhances a better understanding of others, but it also contributes to building meaningful and authentic friendships and relationships.

The deep listening skills of introverts and HSPs enable others to feel truly seen, heard, and understood on a profound level. Their empathetic nature and desire to help others make them exceptionally unique and wonderful individuals to have in your life.

​Thoughtful Decision-Making

When making personal decisions, introverts and highly sensitive people tend to engage in a deliberate decision-making process. They consider various perspectives, weigh all the pros and cons, and take their time to reach a well-informed conclusion. This careful and thoughtful approach often results in wise, fruitful, and considerate choices.

Compassion and Empathy

Introverts and highly sensitive people tend to possess a high level of empathy. Their sensitivity to the energy and emotions of others allows them to connect to people on a profound and powerful level. This empathy fosters compassion, understanding, and a genuine desire to make a positive impact on the lives of those around them.

Introverts and HSPs also tend to be non-judgmental in nature, which allows them to have compassion for the experiences and circumstances of others. This non-judgmental attitude is what draws people to them, often sharing intimate and personal details about their own lives with the introvert or HSP. In essence, their energy comes off as “safe” and people feel comfortable and confide in those who they feel safe with.

While introverts and highly sensitive people may be seen as shy, reserved, or quiet, their traits and unique qualities greatly enrich the diversity of the world around us.

It’s important to acknowledge and value these qualities, creating environments and spaces that enable them to thrive, flourish, and nurture their own beautiful strengths and gifts.

Embracing the reflective, quiet, and sensitive nature of introverts and highly sensitive people enhances our collective understanding and strengthens the fabric of our interconnected world.

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