Too Sensitive to be a Corporate Professional?

Being a highly sensitive person in corporate America can be both a blessing and a curse. On one hand, your heightened emotional intelligence and ability to empathize with others can make you a valuable asset to any team. On the other hand, the fast-paced, competitive nature of the business world can be overwhelming for someone who feels things deeply.

Just a few months ago, I leaped back into the workforce because inflation does not care that I desire to be a stay at home wife and lifestyle influencer. August 2023, I began my career in human resources for a financial institution.

The workforce has drastically change since I’ve started my first job ever as a baby sitter and shampoo girl. Working as a human resources professional, I realize that I am literally a human resource.

Navigating different situations as an advocate and support to employees can take an emotional and energetic toll on my mindset and nervous system. There’s been days I feel like a data entry specialist, days I feel like a therapist and peer mediator, days I feel like the grim reaper, and others when I feel like an executive leader.

Some days where I return home so tired and drained that I must do a full energetic reset to harmonize my energy and mental space before going to bed. Thanks to my bi-weekly therapy sessions, I am able to have a designated time to reflect and talk through my experiences at work and in the world.

I also have a pretty extensive aura cleansing regiment that I can rely on when I need to reset myself.

Now, while all these tools are helpful for disconnecting from negativity and overwhelm, there are some key practices that can serve you while on the clock. If you identify as a highly sensitive professional like myself, then I believe you’ll find great value in the following recommendations.

Here are a few tips for navigating corporate America as a highly sensitive person:

1. Set boundaries: It's important to establish boundaries and prioritize self-care in order to avoid burnout. This might mean taking breaks throughout the day to recharge, setting limits on the amount of work you take on, or finding a quiet space to decompress when you feel overwhelmed. Remember that No is a full sentence, and while it may feel weird to admit you cannot take on any additional work, trust that your future self will love you for it.

2. Communicate your needs: Don't be afraid to speak up and let your colleagues know what you need in order to be successful. Whether it's a quieter workspace or more frequent check-ins with your manager, being open and honest about your needs can help you feel more supported.
   Many professionals enter the workforce believing that the corporation they chose to work for, is going to validate their purpose for existing on this planet--and truthfully that’s a very novice mindset to have when accepting a job offer. It’s key to understand and be confident in the value you bring as a highly sensitive professional. A major part is in the communication of your needs.

3. Embrace your strengths: As a highly sensitive person, you bring a unique set of skills to the table, including strong intuition, heightened empathy, and a deep understanding of others' emotions. Embrace these strengths and use them to your advantage in the workplace. I’m an intuitive to my core and while at work, my intuition is how make decisions and analyze company data and information. I’m always using my discernment to support the impact I wish to make at my employer.

Remember, being highly sensitive doesn't have to hold you back in your career. With the right tools and support, you can thrive in corporate America while staying true to yourself.