😟 Converting HSP traits into work productivity.
A highly-sensitive person (HSP) is not always dismissive or passive.
Highly-Sensitive Person (HSP) is a term coined by psychologist Elaine Aron in 1996, to describe someone with a higher level of sensitivity to physical, emotional, and social stimuli. An HSP often deals with sensory processing sensitivity or SPS.
In social situations, an HSP is often seen as “too sensitive”. At work, their unique traits tend to make other people question their ability. High sensitivity is a personality trait and not an official diagnosis. It can be managed and even leveraged.
Recognize, revitalize
A lot of us struggle with productivity despite having tried out all the different hacks and methods available out there. Though not in every case, you might want to look into your sensitivity level to see if you need to act on it for better productivity.
Highly-Sensitive Test
In her book, “The Highly Sensitive Person”, Elaine Aron compiled 27 statements to assess an individual’s sensitivity level. If you score 14 or above, you might have a high sensitivity level and struggle with HSP traits, which could push you back at work.
Take the test—but only use the results as reference and not factual knowledge, here.
Common problems at work
The highly sensitive person (HSP) is often ‘forced’ to integrate into a very structured context at work, which doesn’t allow them to flourish professionally. One of the main traits of HSP that could hold them back at work is their always-on radar.
They notice any altercation, disagreement, or dysfunction in the workplace, which could distract and overwhelm them or even lead to stress and anxiety. It could be tricky for an HSP to reach their full potential at work due to:
The working environment having excessive sounds, lights, or continuous interpersonal interactions, leading to over-excitement and exhaustion.
Them being able to anticipate any need that comes up in the work environment, causing them to be overloaded with other responsibilities.
People at work not being aware of an HSP’s subtleties, creating misconceptions that HSPs are more vulnerable or incapable of leadership.
Read more about the complexity of a working environment for an HSP, and how the future of work will need their heightened sensitivity in the full article here.
Power in disguise
Though it seems that having HSP traits is a lot to handle—especially when you’re trying to prove your credibility and maintain professionalism, it’s actually the other way around. Your innate qualities as an HSP are in demand and valuable, for instance:
You’re diplomatic when it matters the most. HSPs tend to think longer and more deliberately before speaking. At work, this translates into being able to balance different people’s perspectives and tactfully communicate.
Unmatched self-awareness. HSPs often have a vibrant inner life and more accurate self-perceptions. This is especially helpful when tailoring leadership styles to situations at hand.
Skill to spot innovations. Unintentionally, HSPs constantly scan for ways to make improvements in the workplace and offer novel suggestions, highlighting gaps before they become problems. This saves money and time.
Integrating large amounts of information. HSPs’ depth of processing and curiosity are the perfect combination for roles that require organization, collaboration, strategy, and information management as core skills.
Focus on the big picture. HSPs avoid dabbling in the mundane and tend to drive towards a larger purpose to keep themselves focused and grounded. They often look into the “why” behind strategies and actions the team is taking.
Find 7 other reasons why high sensitivity is your greatest strength at work here.
While reading this week’s Monday Mavens edition, does anyone come in mind? Maybe a co-worker, an old friend, or yourself? 🤔
Though it could be challenging to deal with HSP traits on the daily, you could also make them work in your favor.
Knock this week out of the park with your highly-valued sensitivity, and we’ll see you again next week!