Guilt and shame tend to be a big problem for HSPs.

For the purposes of this episode, we are going to discuss this in relation to the trait of high sensitivity.

Guilt Culprits: We often try to please people. We don’t want to experience their disappointment. We try to do the right thing. We might feel guilty for setting boundaries, taking alone time, or needing to do things differently.

Shame culprits: Most of us have been told our whole lives that something is wrong with us for being “too sensitive” so we often walk around with shame about who we are.

Guilt and shame are exhausting and drain our energy. If we take alone time to restore but we feel guilty when we do it then we don’t restore. It even zaps us of our energy!

If we feel shame about who we are we have a hard time putting ourselves out into the world and deeply connecting to who we really are and finding our life purpose.

Ways to intentionally let go of guilt and shame

1. Acknowledge, normalize and validate your experiences

2. Learn about your positive gifts within this trait of high sensitivity.

3. Practice self-compassion for the hard feelings as it helps us feel more resilient too

4. Set boundaries. Redirect to internal focus. Remind yourself why you had to set that boundary or say no and remember your inner child’s needs.

5. Know that when we give up our needs we don’t thrive and that’s not good for anyone. Your needs are not less important than other people's needs.

6. Shift your mindset. It’s not possible to “please” anyone. That’s not our job, that’s their job.

7. Surround yourself with people who support you and limit or let go of those that don’t. Know that this community supports you! ❤️

8. Be intentional and give time to consciously shift

9. Seek out support from an HSP Psychotherapist who can be a great source of support to guide us through the deep parts. Check out the HSP Practitioners Directory!

10. Keep practicing! The more you practice the easier it is to release the guilt and shame. 

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