Is your shyness, sensitivity or introversion actually your superpower?
I’ve been a shy, highly sensitive introvert for my whole life. And I’ve always seen these as disadvantages. As problems to fix. How about you?
Even though I spent many years studying psychology, theology and spirituality, I didn’t learn that these qualities could actually be both normal and even my superpower from my uni studies.
In fact, it wasn’t until a few years ago when I joined a program for introverted business owners. I’m so grateful to Casey Lightbody and her cosy introverted community for this life-changing insight.
First let’s briefly explore what these traits are, because each one is different.
What’s an introvert? In brief, an introvert is someone who gets tired from interactions with other people, and who recharges their energy by being alone. You need to prioritize managing your energy.
What’s a highly sensitive person? One who picks up on the vibe of a person or place really quickly, and, like a sponge, can take on the feelings of others. You need to make sure you create healthy boundaries.
What’s a shy person? A shy person is someone whose thoughts are often self-conscious and self-critical, and whose interactions with other people are coloured with nervousness about speaking up and fear about how others will react. You need to reframe your anxious thinking so you can find your voice.
So what’s your superpower? One of the greatest benefits from being shy or highly sensitive or an introvert is that you are probably a great listener. All three of these traits can help you to actually talk less and listen more, so you can get curious about other people and enjoy listening to how life is for them.
I encourage you to pause and ask yourself – what are my greatest struggles? And what is the silver lining from them? Yes, I believe that every cloud has a silver lining. You might just uncover one of your superpowers.
Is being a great listener one of your superpowers? It certainly is one of mine. Other superpowers, which come from struggling with these traits my whole life, are being accepting and non-judgemental. Because I’ve realised that everyone is struggling with something. We’re all just doing our best, with the hand that we were given in life.
That’s why I founded the Shy Woman’s Coach. I love to help women who are struggling with life and that hand that life gave you. I especially love coaching women who are shy, sensitive or introverted because I understand your journey and I have a toolkit of strategies to help you to turn your struggle into a strength.
For today – don’t beat yourself up over your struggle. Look for the gift. What is the gift in your character traits?
The Shy Woman's Coach, guiding shy and sensitive women from nervous stress and FOMO to calm, confidence and connection. With playful curiosity and self acceptance, come and take small steps towards living with joyful flourishing.