It’s my birthday and I’ll ask if I want to … I’m asking you to Ask for What You Want
Yep, tomorrow is my birthday and it’s got me thinking about cake … and something that turns out tricky for many an HSP – that thing of feeling able to ask for what you want
I don’t just mean in money terms – although that can be a very important aspect and, with that in mind, here’s a link to a report from the folks at Mind Tools on Managing Highly Sensitive People – and valuing quiet time at work.
It’s already up on my facebook page @lovingyourhighlysensitivelife (which I’d love you to Like and engage with as much as poss!) There’s also a link to it on my Resources page on this site.
I’m mentioning it here while it’s in mind as I’m always so pleased to see evidence of notice being given to the needs of HSPs at work – and recognition of the value that HSP employees can bring to a team. And for HSPs who are entrepreneurs, solopreneurs, self-employed, freelance – etc. etc. etc. it’s still a relevant and wonderful reminder and recap of HSP positive traits – great knowledge to have at your fingertips if and when folks, potential employers or potential clients or collaborators might question you.
It’s so easy for folks to lean towards “negative” assumptions of HSPs as a weak link – and it’s great to have resources to counter those stereotypical and often lazy assumptions.
So, what’s all this got to do with cake?
not strictly cake but definitely food related!
Dear HSP and quiet creative friends – it’s time to remember that we too deserve a slice of success cake! Or the whole damn cake … and in whatever form you like it. Be it gluten free or lactose free or full-fat full cream chocolate salted caramel marzipan meringue mousse torte parfait tart millefeuille fruit cake confection. I don’t care – what I care about is that you feel able and willing to Ask for What You Want.
This is what I want for my birthday….
That you, my dear HSPs and Quiet Creative, can learn to love and accept and value yourself enough to feel able to be bold and leverage your positive qualities to at least give yourself a fighting chance of getting your needs met by Asking for What You Want.
I know there ain’t no guarantees. Life just isn’t like that. But at least be in the game. I know it takes a huge big lot to summon up the courage when you’ve felt beaten down so often – and I also know that HSP experiences are as diverse as any other group.
But for those who have struggled to accept and stand in who you are, to see and articulate and communicate your value to friends, colleagues, family, loved ones – who people-please to the ends of the earth and then feel indignant, passed over and resentful because you never get your own needs met (and I know because I’ve been there ….) please take a deep calming and paradoxically emboldening breath … and claim your slice of the cake.
Happy Birthday to Me – & please, Ask for What You Want!
With Love and Sensitivity
© Annie Wigman – April 2018