Can an HSP be Assertive (Debunking the Impostor Syndrome Myth)

What new revelations did you have about yourself this year?

For me, it was realizing that I'm a highly sensitive person (HSP) per the book by Dr. Elaine Aron.

As an HSP, I'm still processing a text conversation I had eight hours ago…

Because I process everything deeply, especially interpersonal conflicts — even if it was a single phrase spoken out of context or uttered a beat too fast.

I feel joy and love intensely. I find it nearly impossible NOT to cry when I see just about anyone crying on TV.

Most people tell me they get a calm and nurturing vibe from me.

But make no mistake, being highly sensitive hasn’t stopped me from being fierce when I need to, or from being strong and assertive when I choose to.

In my work as a coach for women, I’ve encountered many other talented and highly sensitive professionals who mistook their perceptiveness as a sign of weakness.

When you can feel so deeply responsible for other people’s well-being, when you can perceive other’s frustrations a mile away — it’s easy to get overwhelmed.

And when you’re overwhelmed, it’s easy to interpret that feeling as, “I’m not doing it right,” or “Maybe I don’t belong here,” or “I’m not cut out for this.”

In other words, it’s easy to mistake your sensitivity as “imposter syndrome,” when all you’d been is deeply honest and totally earnest in wanting to do your job really well.

So if this resonates with you, please know you are NOT an imposter.

The world -- and especially the workplace -- is built in favor of non-HSP’s, but your natural talents have profound value.

You’re the real deal with an incredible capacity to empathize, which builds trust and connection, the raw ingredients for great leadership.

On 12/20/23, I'm leading a free LinkedIn Live training on how to cure self-doubt from my HSP and feminist perspective. Click HERE to secure your spot or to catch the replay, if you’re reading this in the future.