What Are You Really Afraid Of? I’m afraid of public speaking.I’m afraid of filling out forms.I’m afraid of taking tests, looking foolish, and being in social situations where I don’t know anyone.And I’m especially afraid of that helpless feeling—when I sense I’m not in control. Sound familiar? As a highly sensitive person, fear doesn’t just whisper—it roars.And while fear is universal, we tend to feel it with extra intensity, as if the stakes are always high. But here’s something I’ve learned:Most fear is not about danger—it’s about control. Or more accurately, the fear of losing it. And that realization changed everything. What if we stopped trying to “conquer” our fears—and instead tried to understand them? Here’s how I push back when fear shows up: Filling…

#HighlySensitivePeople #Introverts: Feeling Overwhelmed? It might not be your fault! Most of us aren’t overwhelmed because we’re weak, disorganized, or bad at time management. We’re overwhelmed because we’re constantly trying to fit ourselves into a world that doesn’t fit us. A world that praises nonstop productivity and punishes rest. A world that shames quiet souls for needing time to process. A world that treats deep feeling like a flaw instead of a strength. As a highly sensitive introvert, I’ve often felt like I should be able to do more, push harder, and keep up with everyone else. But the truth? That mindset nearly broke me. Yes—some structure helps. But time management alone isn’t the whole answer. The real shift happens when we stop treating our…

Transitioning to college can be a major life change that triggers anxiety for many students, including those who are highly sensitive and/ or introverted, or those with social anxiety. Here are some strategies to help reduce back-to-school anxiety for college students: Campus Familiarization: Attend campus tours or orientation events to become familiar with the layout and facilities before the semester starts. Connect with Peers: Join online forums, social media groups, or attend pre-college meetups to connect with other incoming students. Supportive Environment: Create a comfortable and organized living space in your dorm or apartment to provide a sense of security. Plan a Routine: Establish a daily routine that balances academics, social activities, self-care, and relaxation. Break Down Tasks: Break down larger tasks, such as studying…

Reducing back-to-school anxiety for high school students, especially those who are highly sensitive and/or introverted, requires a thoughtful approach that considers your developmental stage and specific concerns. Here are some targeted strategies to help alleviate your anxiety: Early Preparation: Start preparing for school well in advance to avoid last-minute stress. Gather supplies, choose outfits, and organize materials. Familiarization: Attend any orientation sessions or open houses offered by the school to become familiar with the layout and meet teachers. Reconnect with Friends: Reconnect with old friends before school starts. Having familiar faces can ease the transition. Set Realistic Expectations: It's okay not to excel in everything. Focus on doing the best that you can. Break Down the Day: Break down the school day into manageable segments,…