Why Do People Tell Me I'm Too Sensitive?

Has anyone ever told you you're ‘too sensitive’? Maybe you’ve heard it at work or in personal relationships, and it’s left you questioning - is this really a problem? If this resonates with you, know you’re not alone. Sensitivity is often misunderstood, but the truth is, it can be one of your greatest strengths. In this post, we'll explore why people say this, and how you can embrace your sensitivity as a superpower.

What Does 'Too Sensitive' Really Mean?

When people say you’re ‘too sensitive,’ they’re usually responding to your emotional reactions. Sensitivity often ties back to caring deeply - about your work, relationships, and the people around you. And yes, this sometimes leads to self-criticism. The perfectionist in you wants every detail to be just right, and when things don't go as planned or feedback doesn't match your expectations, emotions can run high. But this doesn't mean there's anything wrong with you.

Sensitivity can simply mean that you’re emotionally tuned in - perhaps more than others. And let’s face it, when people label you as ‘too sensitive,’ it says more about their discomfort with emotions than it does about you.

Personal Story: In male-dominated work environments, I’ve been called ‘too sensitive’ more times than I can count - especially when I spoke passionately about something or when I didn’t meet my own (or my clients’) expectations. Instead of just brushing it off, I’d often feel the need to justify myself. But over time, I realised that the problem wasn’t with my sensitivity; it was with how society perceives women who show emotion in professional spaces. I learned to stop justifying and start owning it. Sensitivity is a form of strength.

Why People Say It

So why do people label us as ‘too sensitive’? Often, it’s because society has conditioned us to see emotional expression as a flaw, especially in environments where rationality and stoicism are prized, especially corporate or male-dominated fields. If you're passionate or emotionally engaged, it can be misunderstood as a weakness.

The truth is, sensitivity and passion are closely linked. When we care deeply about something, it’s natural to have strong emotional responses. But for some, particularly those who aren’t comfortable with emotions, this can come across as ‘too much.’

Inner Critic Takeover: And then there's the internal impact. When we internalise these judgments, it can fuel self-doubt. The inner critic takes over, leaving us second-guessing ourselves. Am I really too sensitive, or are they just uncomfortable with my emotional intelligence?

Reframing Sensitivity as a Strength

Your sensitivity is your strength. It shows that you care, that you're passionate, and that you’re emotionally intelligent. These are the traits that allow you to connect deeply with others, anticipate needs, and notice details others may miss.

Why Sensitivity is Powerful: Sensitivity isn't just about emotional reactions; it’s about empathy, insight, and awareness. These are powerful tools, especially in leadership roles. The world needs more people who are emotionally attuned and capable of showing compassion.

Mindset Shift: It’s time to reframe what sensitivity means to you. Rather than seeing it as something to hide or suppress, recognise it as a strength. Yes, people might call you ‘too sensitive,’ but that’s because you’re tuned into emotions in ways others aren’t. And that’s your superpower.

Strategies to Manage Sensitivity in Challenging Situations

While sensitivity is a gift, it’s also important to learn how to manage it in challenging situations. Here are some strategies I recommend:

1. Use EFT to Release Emotional Charge: When emotions run high, EFT (Emotional Freedom Techniques) can help release the intense feelings that come up. EFT involves tapping on specific points of the body while focusing on the emotion you're feeling. This can help reduce the emotional charge and bring you back to a place of calm. If you're ever feeling overwhelmed after being labelled ‘too sensitive,’ EFT is a great way to release those emotions.

2. Shifting Perspective: Sometimes, sensitivity isn’t about what you’re feeling - it’s about how others are responding to it. Consider whether the other person might be projecting their discomfort onto you. By shifting your perspective, you can understand that their labelling says more about them than it does about you.

3. Managing Responses Thoughtfully: Being sensitive doesn’t mean you need to change who you are, but it does help to manage how you respond. The goal here isn’t to suppress your emotions but to be more considered in how you deliver your responses. Take a breath, pause, and think about the best way to respond that stays true to who you are but also respects the dynamics of the situation. It's about finding balance, not stifling yourself.

My Personal Experience: Owning My Sensitivity

Let me tell you, this hasn’t always been easy for me. Working in male-dominated environments, I’ve been called ‘sensitive’ or ‘emotional’ plenty of times, and at first, it was incredibly frustrating. I used to justify my feelings or explain why I felt passionate about a particular issue. But as I’ve grown and learned, I’ve stopped trying to prove myself. Instead, I embrace my sensitivity as part of what makes me good at what I do. It allows me to connect with people, understand their needs, and navigate complex emotions - qualities that have served me in my coaching.

Conclusion: Your Sensitivity is Your Strength

So, the next time someone tells you you’re ‘too sensitive,’ remember this: Sensitivity is your superpower. It means you’re passionate, empathetic, and deeply connected to your emotions, something to be proud of. The world needs more of that, not less.

If you want to explore how to embrace your sensitivity and turn it into a strength, I’d love to support you. Let’s work together to help you harness this power and transform how you show up in your life and work. Book a session with me today, and let’s get started.