Think of a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP), and chances are a quiet, lost-in-thought introvert will come to mind. But the interesting thing about majorities and stereotypes is that there are always exceptions. And, when it comes to high sensitivity, the extraverted Highly Sensitive Person is one such exception.
Interestingly, extraverted HSPs are just a little more frequent in the high-sensitivity population than HSPs are in the general population. Research suggests that 30% of all HSPs are extraverts. That’s only 6% of the population!
Describing the HSP Extravert
To have both the high-sensitivity trait and extraversion is fascinating and often misunderstood. The blend seems contradictory, like living a life of opposites.
Highly Sensitives with Extraversion may thrive in social settings, enjoy external stimulation, and recharge through interaction with others, thanks to their extraversion personality type.
But they are still HSPs, meaning they also experience heightened sensitivity to sensory input, emotions, and social nuances. And they still need downtime to process their experiences.
HS extraverts are introspective, gentle, kind, and creative. And they typically prefer less-stimulating environments over more random social scenes.
Their nervous systems, like all HSPs’, require alone time.
The HSP extravert is not to be confused with another HSP subtype known as the High Sensation Seeker (HSS). Contrary to how it sounds, high-sensation seeking is not about impulsivity or risk taking. HSSs are easily bored and like variations — like taking a trip or reading a new book — in their routines. (To see if you may be a HSS, take this quiz.)
Extraverted–HSP Prototypes
Extraverted HSPs can be found in all walks of life, often in roles that require both social engagement and emotional intelligence.
Here are 3 examples of how HSP extraverts might show up in the world:
- The Charismatic Leader:
Extraverted HSPs in leadership positions bring a unique combination of social energy and empathy.
They connect deeply with their teams, understand their needs, and create supportive work environments. And their sensitivity helps them pick up on unspoken tensions and address issues before they escalate.
- The Empathetic Entertainer:
Actors, musicians, and public speakers who are extraverted HSPs use their sensitivity to connect with their audiences on an emotional level.
Their performances are often deeply moving, as they channel their heightened awareness of emotions into art.
Alanis Morrisette is an ideal example and explains the experience of being a highly sensitive entertainer in the documentary Sensitive.
- The Social Advocate:
Extraverted HSPs find themselves drawn to social causes, as their extraverted nature and sensitivity to injustice make them natural advocates for change. They can rally support, create awareness, and inspire others to take action.
Similarities and Differences with Other HSPs and Non-HSPs
Similarities with Other HSPs:
- Emotional depth: Like their introverted counterparts, extraverted HSPs experience emotions deeply and are highly empathetic.
- Sensitivity to stimuli: Whether introverted or extraverted, HSPs can be easily overwhelmed by sensory input such as loud noises, bright lights, and chaotic environments.
- Need for downtime: Despite enjoying social interaction, extraverted HSPs also need time alone to recharge and process their experiences.
Differences from Other HSPs:
- Social engagement: While introverted HSPs prefer solitude or small, intimate gatherings, extraverted HSPs thrive in larger social settings and enjoy meeting new people.
- Energy source: Because introverts draw their energy from within, they tend to find socializing draining and need more alone-time to recuperate. Extraverted HSPs, on the other hand, gain energy from social interactions.
Differences from Non-HSPs:
- Emotional reactivity: Extraverted HSPs react more intensely to emotional stimuli compared to non-HSPs, which can lead to richer, albeit sometimes more tumultuous, emotional experiences.
- Depth of processing: Extraverted HSPs tend to process information more deeply than non-HSPs,, considering multiple perspectives and the potential emotional impact of decisions on others.
Pros and Cons of Being an HSP Extravert
Just as high sensitivity and extraversion have their unique benefits and challenges, so does the combination of the two. If you are an HSP extravert, here are a few gifts to revel in and a few vulnerabilities to be prepared for.
Blessings of Being an Extraverted HSP
- Deep connections: Extraverted HSPs form deep, meaningful connections with others. Their empathy helps them to understand and support others on a profound level.
- Intuitive insight: Their sensitivity provides them with a keen intuition. They can often sense what others need or feel, making them excellent friends, partners, and colleagues.
- Creative expression: Many extraverted HSPs channel their sensitivity into creative endeavors. Whether it’s through art, music, writing, or public speaking, their ability to feel deeply can result in powerful expressions of creativity.
Pain Points of Being an Extraverted HSP
- Social overload: While extraverted HSPs are all for social interactions, too much can lead to sensory overload. They might find themselves feeling drained and overwhelmed after a particularly busy social event.
- Emotional exhaustion: Their heightened empathy can result in emotional burnout. They might absorb the emotions of those around them, easily leading to fatigue and stress.
- Misunderstood sensitivity: Extraverted HSPs might struggle with being misunderstood. Others might perceive them as overly sensitive or dramatic, not realizing the depth of their emotional experiences.
Living Your Best Life as an HSP Extravert
Optimally Using the Trait to Your Benefit
- Set boundaries: Learn to recognize when you need to step back and recharge. It’s okay to decline social invitations or leave events early if you’re feeling overwhelmed.
- Practice self-care: Incorporate regular self-care routines into your life. This could include activities like meditation, exercise, or spending time in nature to help balance your sensitivity.
- Leverage your strengths: Use your empathy and emotional intelligence to build strong relationships and support networks. Your ability to connect deeply with others is a powerful asset.
- Pursue passion projects: Channel your sensitivity into creative or advocacy projects. Your unique perspective and emotional depth can lead to impactful and meaningful contributions.
A Unique Perspective: Embracing the Paradox
Being an extraverted HSP is like being a social butterfly with the heart of a poet.
Imagine attending a lively party where you’re the life of the event, engaging with everyone, yet also feeling every shift in the room’s emotional atmosphere.
You might be the one who notices a friend feeling out of place, then makes an effort to include her.
Or you might be the one who can turn a mundane gathering into a memorable experience with your enthusiasm and emotional presence.
Perhaps you are even prone to defying what others think they know about you by showing glimpses of your emotional sensitivity. Leave it to you to find the tender, tear-evoking lyrics in a song that has everyone else rocking it out.
Conclusion
Extraverted Highly Sensitive People are a captivating blend of social energy and deep emotional sensitivity. They navigate the world with a unique set of challenges and blessings, often feeling like they straddle two worlds.
By embracing their sensitivity, setting boundaries, and leveraging their other strengths, extraverted HSPs can lead fulfilling, impactful lives.
Extraverted HSPs enrich their own experiences and those of the people around them.
So, to all the extraverted HSPs out there, celebrate your unique nature, and remember: You are a beautiful paradox, a symphony of social and soulful depth.
Dr. Elayne Daniels is a psychologist, consultant, and international coach in the Boston area. Her passion is helping people celebrate their high sensitivity and shine their light.
To learn more about High Sensitivity, check out www.HSPglow.com or www.facebook.com/groups/midlifehsps/
