Knowing we are an introvert, extrovert or Highly Sensitive Person (HSP), can bring relief, and it can help us understand why we are the way we are. It can provide comfort, validation, understanding and knowledge. However, it’s important to be mindful HOW we’re using these “labels.” I always thought I had social anxiety, but in retrospect, I think it was overwhelm and overstimulation. I also thought I was an introvert, so I avoided social situations thinking this was how to take care of myself. I recently learned that I’m a highly sensitive extrovert, and I need to find the right balance of stimulation and “out” time to feel really nurtured and fulfilled. When I thought I was an introvert, I took a lot of down time thinking it’s what I needed to recharge, but it left me feeling listless and a little depressed, because what I needed was connection to others.

I talk about the importance of play, and how it’s easy to lose the joy and connection we felt when we were younger, and how having that sense of connection can bring joy and energy to our lives.

I end up talking about how it took me 14 years to get my BA degree, and 8 years to get my license (which is a 2 year process), and then it took me 17 months to launch this podcast. This is where the use of self-compassion comes in, and trusting that as HSPs, we often need more time to do things. It’s not a bad thing.

I also talk about author Susan Cain and her book Quiet, the Power of Introverts, and how she blends traits of being Highly Sensitive with being an introvert. I also mention Jacquelyn Strickland’s article called Introverts, Extroverts and the Highly Sensitive Person which can be found on Dr. Elaine Aron's website. You can find references to these in the show notes. 

Introversion, Extroversion and the Highly Sensitive Person by Jaquelyn Strickland, LPC--https://hsperson.com/introversion-extroversion-and-the-highly-sensitive-person/

Quiet, the Power of Introverts by Susan Cain

Podcast—How to Be a Girl by Marlo Mack

Website--www.patriciayounglcsw.com Podcast--www.unapologeticallysensitive.com Facebook--https://www.facebook.com/Patricia-Young-LCSW-162005091044090/ Youtube--https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOE6fodj7RBdO3Iw0NrAllg/videos?view_as=subscriber [email protected] Show hashtag--#unapologeticallysensitive MUSIC—Gravel Dance by Andy Robinson www.andyrobinson.com