Mindfully In My Feelings
The Power of Sensitivity & What It Means to Me.
Woah. This is my very first post on Substack. I’m somewhat wondering how I got here? But also, it makes perfect sense.
I’ve been a writer for as long as I can remember.
As a young teen, I used to fill pages and pages of composition notebooks with my thoughts, ideas, and of course—my feelings. And boy, did I have a lot of them.
Growing up I was always considered the ‘sensitive’ one in my family. The one who felt any and every thing.
And from a very early age, I learned that feeling deeply makes you an outcast. Once you add in the strong and consistent desire to express those feelings—now you’re just being weird. Or ‘too much.’
According to Google, to be “in your feelings” means to be in a vulnerable, receptive, and expressive emotional state. The phrase has become so popular that it’s reflected in songs by chart-topping artists like Ella Mai and Drake.
You may have also heard the phrase: “feel some type of way”—which is simply another way of saying you’re “in your feelings.” Either way, it is usually reserved for describing something negative.
I’m here to change the narrative. Sensitivity is a valuable and transformative quality that can enhance your life and the lives of those around you.
In a world that often celebrates resilience and toughness, sensitivity is a trait that sometimes gets overlooked or misunderstood. However, what many fail to realize is that sensitivity is not a weakness—it's a superpower.
Here’s a brief list of just some of the ways that I believe sensitivity is a superpower and how it can show up as a strength in your everyday life.
Empathy & Compassion:
At the core of sensitivity lies a profound capacity for empathy and compassion. Sensitive individuals have an innate ability to understand and share the feelings of others. This empathy creates stronger connections with people, fostering a sense of community and support. In a world that could use more compassion, sensitivity becomes a superpower that brings people together.
Heightened Awareness:
Sensitivity often goes hand in hand with heightened awareness. Sensory perceptions are more acute, allowing sensitive individuals to notice subtleties that others may overlook. This heightened awareness can lead to a deeper understanding of the world, fostering creativity, and promoting mindfulness. The ability to notice the details can be a powerful tool in problem-solving and decision-making.
Creativity Unleashed:
Many creative minds are fueled by sensitivity. The ability to feel deeply and process emotions translates into a rich source of inspiration for writers, artists, musicians, and creators of all kinds. Sensitive individuals can tap into a wellspring of emotions, channeling them into powerful and evocative expressions of art that resonate with others.
Authentic Connections:
Sensitivity often accompanies authenticity. Sensitive individuals tend to be genuine and transparent in their interactions. This authenticity fosters deeper connections with others as people appreciate and respond positively to real, unfiltered emotions. Genuine connections, rooted in sensitivity, can lead to a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
Adaptability and Resilience:
Contrary to the perception of sensitivity as fragility, sensitive individuals often demonstrate remarkable resilience. The ability to deeply feel and process emotions equips them with the strength to navigate challenges. Sensitivity encourages a willingness to confront and learn from difficulties, fostering personal growth and adaptability.
Intuition as a Guide:
Sensitivity is often linked to strong intuition. The ability to sense subtle cues and emotions enables sensitive individuals to make insightful decisions. Trusting your intuition can serve as a powerful guide in navigating life's complexities, leading to more authentic and fulfilling paths.
Positive Impact:
Sensitive individuals are often driven by a desire to make a positive impact on the world. Whether it's advocating for social justice, caring for the environment, or supporting those in need, sensitivity fuels a deep sense of responsibility and empathy that can drive meaningful change.
This list represents only a few of the many ways that ‘being in your feelings’ is sometimes just what the doctor ordered; and what the world could use more of.
It’s time we raise a flag for the sensitive souls who wear their heart on their sleeve and in turn, become a mirror for others to do the same.
In a world that sometimes values toughness over tenderness, it's crucial to recognize the superpower that sensitivity truly is. Embracing your sensitivity empowers you to connect with others on a profound level, harness creativity, and navigate life with authenticity and resilience. So, if you identify as a sensitive soul, embrace it with pride, for your sensitivity is indeed a remarkable superpower that has the potential to create a more compassionate and understanding world.