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Blink 3 of 8 - The 5 AM Club
by Robin Sharma
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Sensitive summary
Jenn Granneman
Andre Sólo
The Hidden Power of the Highly Sensitive Person in a Loud, Fast, Too-Much World
20 mins
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Sensitive
Summary of 6 key ideas
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Key idea 1 of 6
What sensitivity is
In today’s world, we encounter an overwhelming volume of information on a daily basis. The bombardment from the internet, smartphones, social media and more challenges our brains. The result is a universal experience of stress, burnout, and anxiety, as we struggle to keep up with the demands of a world that is more stimulating than ever before.
This strain is even more acute for the one third of the population that is highly sensitive. According to research performed in the 1980s by psychologist Jerome Kagan, the brains of highly sensitive people are wired to process things more profoundly. They notice subtle details that others may miss, can easily read the emotions of a room, predict how events will unfold, and envision creative solutions. This endows them with unique strengths such as empathy, intuition, and a profound appreciation for beauty and creativity. However, their sensitivity also leaves them more vulnerable to overstimulation and emotional overload.
Society often misinterprets sensitivity as weakness, especially among men. Would you have guessed that sensitivity is equally common in men and women? Well, it is! The truth is that sensitivity represents a normal, healthy, and measurable personality trait. It doesn’t mean being overly emotional, weak, or unable to handle criticism. Rather, it's a nuanced and complex trait that involves a deeper processing of sensory and emotional inputs.
But the stigma surrounding sensitivity often causes people to hide and suppress their natures. Sensitive people can even repress their own natures so much that they’re unaware of the quiet strengths they possess. Messages like "don't be so sensitive!" teach them to hide the very traits that make them exceptional. But understanding and embracing sensitivity, and making it a vital aspect of your identity can bring an immense sense of relief, confidence, clarity, and belonging.
So, what do you think? Are you ready to embrace your sensitive nature?
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What is Sensitive about?
Sensitive (2023) explores the meaningful lives and gifts of highly sensitive people, whose emotional depth and perceptual sensitivity shed invaluable light into human consciousness. Interweaving scientific research with compelling personal stories, it guides highly sensitive people toward validation and compassionate self-care. With poetic reflection and empowering advice, it frames high sensitivity as a vital form of beauty both challenging and critical to embrace.
Sensitive Review
Sensitive (2021) is a thought-provoking book that celebrates the power of sensitivity in a world that often undervalues it. Here's why this book is worth reading:
- It offers insights into the unique strengths and challenges of being sensitive, helping readers better understand and embrace their own sensitivity.
- With practical strategies and exercises, it provides tools to navigate overwhelming emotions and thrive in relationships and careers.
- The book combines research, personal stories, and expert advice to create a relatable and empowering guide for sensitive individuals.
Who should read Sensitive?
- Highly sensitive people, or those who suspect they might be
- Parents of sensitive children
- Anyone curious about psychology and neurodiversity
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Sensitive FAQs
What is the main message of Sensitive?
Embrace your sensitivity and use it as a strength.
How long does it take to read Sensitive?
It takes a few hours to read Sensitive, while the Blinkist summary can be read in just 15 minutes.
Is Sensitive a good book? Is it worth reading?
Sensitive is a valuable read that explores the positive aspects of sensitivity and provides practical guidance for sensitive individuals.
Who is the author of Sensitive?
Jenn Granneman & Andre Sólo are the authors of Sensitive.
What to read after Sensitive?
If you're wondering what to read next after Sensitive, here are some recommendations we suggest:
- The Communication Code by Jeremie Kubicek & Steve Cockram
- The Highly Sensitive Person by Elaine N. Aron
- Smart Brevity by Jim VandeHei
- The Highly Sensitive Person's Guide to Dealing with Toxic People by Shahida Arabi
- The Geek Way by Andrew McAfee
- Possible by William Ury
- Lessons in Stoicism by John Sellars
- Thinking, Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman
- We Have Always Lived in the Castle by Shirley Jackson
- Have a Beautiful, Terrible Day! by Kate Bowler