It’s a common misconception that all highly sensitive people (HSPs) are introverts. In reality, there are many HSPs who are extroverted and enjoy being around people!
What is a highly sensitive person?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the definition of a highly sensitive person can vary from individual to individual. However, in general, an HSP is someone who is particularly aware and reactive to their environment and the people around them. They may find it difficult to process lots of stimuli at once, and they may be more sensitive to things like noise, light, and temperature.
HSPs are often very sensitive to the needs of others and can be deeply affected by the emotions of those around them. They may also have a strong connection to nature and the natural world. HSPs can be introverts or extroverts, but they all share a deep level of sensitivity. Learn more about the highly sensitive person here.
Can a highly sensitive person be an extrovert?
Yes, a highly sensitive person can definitely be an extrovert! There are many HSPs who enjoy being around people and who get energy from social interactions. Just because someone is an HSP, it does not mean they are necessarily introverted. In fact, many HSPs are quite the opposite!
- If you are an HSP and you’re not sure if you’re an introvert or extrovert, there are a few things to consider. First, do you enjoy being around people? Do you feel energized after social interactions, or do you feel drained?
- Second, do you need a lot of time alone to process your experiences, or can you go for long periods of time without needing any quiet time?
- Finally, do you find yourself constantly taking care of the needs of others, or do you focus more on taking care of yourself?
5 Signs You’re an Extroverted Highly Sensitive Person
1. You crave social situations, but you are often overwhelmed and want to leave once you are there.
For the extroverted HSP, this can feel like a roller coaster. You may love being around people and feel energized at first, but eventually, the stimulation becomes too much and you want to leave. This may be in part because you are taking in all the energy from the people around you. For social gatherings, it’s important to understand your limits. Perhaps attend smaller gatherings or events where you know the people well.
The extroverted HSP needs people in their life to feel “normal”. If they go too long without socializing, they will start to feel antsy and uncomfortable. This is because they need the stimulation of other people to feel at ease.
2. Your group of friends is small but extremely close.
The extroverted HSP is selective about who they let into their inner circle. You may have a small group of friends that you are extremely close to, and these relationships are very important to you. HSPs often feel like outsiders in the world, so it’s crucial to have a few people that understand you completely. For the extroverted HSP, these relationships are for life. As an extroverted HSP, you may even find yourself more attracted to introverts.
3. You always notice a minor change in friends, family, and even acquaintances. :
The extroverted HSP is hyperaware of the people around them. They notice even the slightest change in someone’s mood or demeanor, and they take this information in deeply. You may often sense when something is wrong with a friend even before they know it themselves. This is because you are constantly tuned in to the emotions of those around you.
You may also remember small details about people that others would forget. The extroverted HSP takes in every detail about the people they meet, and they often find themselves recalling these details later on.
4. You have both an adventurer and poet side of you:
The extroverted HSP often has two sides to them – the adventurer and the poet. The adventurer side is always looking for new experiences and is always up for trying something new. They are outgoing and often crave excitement. The poet side is more introspective and is interested in the inner workings of people and the world. They are often attracted to creative pursuits and enjoy exploring their own emotions.
It’s not unusual for the extroverted HSP to switch between these two personalities, depending on the situation. You may be an adventurer when they’re out with friends or at their job, but then become the poet when they’re home alone.
5. You can’t figure out if you are an introvert or extrovert.
If you are an extroverted HSP, it can be difficult to figure out if you are truly an introvert or not. This is because the lines between introversion and extroversion can be blurry for HSPs. You may find that you fluctuate between the two depending on the situation.
The best way to figure out which one you identify with more is by paying attention to how you feel. If you find yourself feeling exhausted after socializing, then you may be an introvert. If you enjoy being around people and feel energized by them, then you are likely an extroverted HSP.
So, can a highly sensitive person be an extrovert? Yes, they can! Just because someone is highly sensitive doesn’t mean they are automatically an introvert. Some HSPs are extroverted, and they can still enjoy being around people. It’s important for them to understand their limits and to know when it’s time to take a break.
Overall, it’s important to understand that there is no one-size-fits-all definition of introversion and extroversion. Some people may identify with both labels, while others may feel more drawn to one or the other. It’s up to you to figure out which one fits you best. If you’re an extroverted HSP, know that there is nothing wrong with you. You just have a different way of processing the world. Embrace it!