10 Reasons To Be Glad You're A Highly Sensitive Person

Go on, give yourself a hug.

From tears to cheers, if you’re a highly sensitive person you have a lot of feelings you express on a regular basis. And in a culture in which emotions are sometimes seen as “weak,” expressing them can often feel like a liability rather than an asset.

The personality trait of being a highly sensitive person, which affects both men and women, can play a large role in daily interactions ― and that’s actually really good news. If you’re feeling a little low about your emotional nature, here are a few reasons to instead celebrate your sensitivity.

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1. You're empathetic.

Highly sensitive people have an extremely empathetic nature, according to Elaine Aron, a lead researcher on the personality type. This can contribute to a certain level of emotional reactivity, including concern for a friend or someone in need. Sounds like the kind of person anyone would want in their corner.

2. You generally aren't involved in conflict.

Confrontational situations tend to create anxiety for you because you fear you're going to be criticized for your reactions or for speaking up. "Sensitive people get torn between speaking up for what they feel is right or sitting back because they don't want a violent type of reaction [from others]," Aron previously told HuffPost. Seriously, who likes arguing with people, anyway?

3. You're perceptive.

No one picks up on a change or the mood of a room quite like a highly sensitive person. "There's just this intuition they have about their environment that other people generally aren't aware of," Aron said. This usually means you're more likely to notice if someone is upset -- and then react accordingly.

4. The trait helps you at work.

Highly sensitive people are excellent team players, according to Aron. Not only that, but you make a great leader (think teachers, therapists or managers) because you care about the well-being and success of your employees and others.

5. You pursue projects that have meaning.

Sensitive folks actively seek purpose. It doesn't matter if it's a new initiative at work or traveling the world, you're most likely drawn to activities that bring meaningful stimulation to your life. Highly sensitive people are also known for being service-oriented.

6. You think and feel more deeply.

This means you like to process events, situations and changes more thoroughly, according to Ted Zeff, author of The Highly Sensitive Person's Survival Guide. Additionally, highly sensitive people cry more easily -- and research shows that's certainly not a bad thing when it comes to your well-being. Emotions are not a weakness (make this your mantra).

7. You're detail-oriented.

Mark this on your resume. Highly sensitive people are the first ones to notice even the subtlest of changes, like if someone got a new haircut or redecorated their living room, making you impeccably detail-oriented.

8. You're emotional in your relationships.

How deep is your love? Very. Strong emotions and being in-tune with your significant other's needs are just a few of the positive characteristics of a highly sensitive romantic partner. They'll always know that you care.

9. You have good manners.

Step aside, Emily Post. According to Aron, sensitive individuals are known for being highly conscientious and exhibiting good manners, whether that means offering a seat on the subway or holding a door open. This also means you notice when someone isn't being so courteous (and, honestly, how rude).

10. You're wired to be this way.

When it comes down to it, why fight something you were born to be? Research suggests that highly sensitive people are neurologically wired to be emotional and empathetic.

In other words? You can't fight nature. It's so much better to embrace every aspect of your personality -- tears and all.

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