"It is both a blessing and a curse to feel everything so very deeply."
This a quote that I have come across countless times on social media - and each time, I have half-heartedly resonated with it. While I do consider myself to be a relatively empathetic person, it was actually the first component of the quote that truly caught my eye.
From there, I eventually arrived at my own variation of the phrase: "It is both a blessing and a curse to see through everything so deeply."
Here's my logic. If you're skilled in self-awareness, you'll understand what I mean when I say that this particular character trait is just as frustrating as it is beneficial.
While there are many clear advantages to being an intuitive person, there are also various struggles that come along with it. Let's take a look at a few.
1. Intuitiveness and introversion don't always mesh.
Sometimes, it can be difficult to declare your opinion without giving off the notion that you consider your thoughts to be superior to others'. When this happens, those with introverted tendencies often feel the urge to hold back. You don't want to come off as bossy or a know-it-all, even though you are truly confident in your beliefs.
This can cause dilemmas with friendships or in the office. For instance, you might sniff out a shady boyfriend or gossipy co-worker before others do. However, for fear of speaking your mind, your lips are sealed.
2. Others will inevitably assume that you're just "over thinking it" or being "paranoid."
To the other side, you often seem like you’re reading way too far into a situation than necessary, and are often told to just “relax and let it work itself out."
You'll sometimes be swayed by your friends' commentary and try to convince ourselves that you are, in fact, over thinking. However, you can ultimately never shake that nagging feeling that's something off. Plus, past situations have proven that these thoughts are valid - and shouldn't be ignored.
3. Your gut feeling rarely fails you, but sometimes you almost wish it did.
You're able to pinpoint the early signs of somebody losing interest in you, and to distrust a toxic situation before you're in too deep.
Some would argue that this is helpful, and there is truth to that - as you are not blindsided by the inevitable letdown. However, it also means that you can sense more than you necessarily want to. It leaves you on-edge, feeling responsible for putting the pieces back together - even though at some point, there's only so much you can really do.
4. You see through all of the BS - but sometimes it's just not your place to fix it.
It's not always plausible to call attention to a certain situation, and not because you're too timid to do so - but because it puts you in a compromising position. As difficult as it can be, sometimes you have to let others fight their own battles.
Ultimately, to end with a positive spin, intuition presents us with knowledge and a purpose of direction. While you may encounter a few roadblocks along the way, your keen eye will help clear the pathway early on.
