Sensitive Types: Break Free From the Limits of the Label
Chances are that you’ve come to know parts of yourself from the labels used by society. Some labels are psychological, such as introvert, highly sensitive person (HSP) or maybe even ADHD. Others are more social in nature, like being known as aloof, standoffish, quiet, shy or timid. Regardless, labels limit you within their artificial confines identified by the commonly accepted thoughts and behaviors that become entrenched with the label. Still, you can live beyond the limits of any label.
I’m not trying to knock labels. We all need them to quickly communicate a thought or concept. Labels, by themselves, aren’t harmful. Yet, they can be harmful when you adopt one as your main identity or approach to life. That’s where their restricting character comes in.
I used to live to the label of introvert pretty well. I crafted nearly everything I did to fit within those preset conditions. I’d think before I acted and only do something if it matched. I was living as a proud introvert – to the fullest of its definitions.
It’s likely that your own sensitive nature has made it difficult for you to hear yourself described as a label. You may even bristle beneath your skin when it happens. At this very moment, you can accept the label or kindly challenge it. This is your opportunity.
So how can you stand in your own personal power when you feel like this? Here are several steps you can take when you are subject to an externally imposed label:
Critique what you take in. Too often, people simply accept what they hear. Practice independent thinking by making your own evaluation of the words used by others and their intended meaning.
Note another’s judgments, yet don’t be limited or hurt by them. Most people aren’t cruel, just unthinking. Judgments are often inferred, not overt or realized by the speaker. You can do them a favor by opening their eyes to it.
Mention the ambiguity in their meaning without being critical, if you feel you can. Yes, this is the difficult step, and validly you may choose to skip it. Ask them to clarify. You can expect wide-eyed amazement at this point. So take extra care to be gentle, coming from your heart, in how you do this. One approach that works is pure curiosity, by perhaps saying, “Gee, I noticed that…”
The purpose here is not to confront or threaten, but instead to inform them. Very likely, they didn’t critique their own thought before speaking it. By using a collaborative style, you hold the potential of garnering their appreciation and deepening the relationship. And subtlely, you are soliciting their respect for you.
Always define yourself. Be original and creative in expressing who you are through your words, manner of speech and dress. You can willingly defy any label or description this way.
Once I started defining myself, the label of introvert slipped away easily. I now have so much more fun – and more impact, too – by being myself in all its quirkiness and contradictions.
Live beyond the limits of society’s molded labels and be the grandest version of yourself that you can be!
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