8 Common Traits of Introverts and Highly Sensitive People

​Vanessa Marie Dewsbury
​Instagram @soulalivebarrie
​Youtube Channel

​In a world that often celebrates extroversion and a bold, outgoing nature, introverts and highly sensitive people (HSPs) bring a unique set of gifts and qualities to the world. While the terms are often used interchangeably, they represent distinct but sometimes overlapping personality traits. In this blog post, I've shared with you eight common traits between introverts and highly sensitive people and shed light on some of the valuable strengths and beautiful qualities they both possess.

Deep Thinkers and Reflective Minds

​Introverts and highly sensitive people are both known to be deep thinkers and introspective souls. They find solace and peace in quiet moments where they can reflect on their feelings and thoughts. They are also know to be dreamers and have extremely vivid imaginations.

​This introspective nature often leads them to profound insights, creative ideas and inspiration, and a rich and meaningful inner world that fuels their purpose and their passions.
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Meaningful Connections

Quality over quantity is the mantra for introverts and highly sensitive people when it comes to friendships and relationships. While they may not thrive and flourish in large social gatherings or at busy events, they do tend to excel in one-on-one interactions.

Deep, meaningful connections energize them, and they value and cherish the authenticity and substance that comes with genuine, personal relationships. Seeking "safe" people who they can be themselves with is the goal for introverts and highly sensitive people. If they are not comfortable in certain environments, they will often appear reserved and even a bit guarded. This is how they protect their energy. 
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Silence Over Small Talk

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​Sensitive to Stimuli

​Highly sensitive people are extremely attuned to their surroundings. They may be more sensitive to loud noises, really bright lights, large crowds, or even subtle changes in a person's mood or energy. This heightened awareness and sensitivity, while occasionally challenging and overwhelming, allows them to notice nuances that others may overlook, contributing to their very keen observational skills.

​Introverts are also known to experience the same kind of over stimulation often resulting in them retreating for much needed peace and solitude. Too much external "noise" can cause them to feel distracted, stressed, and even anxious. Knowing their own "triggers" is key to regulating and balancing their energy and emotions.
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Recharge in Solitude

​Introverts and highly sensitive people require a lot of alone time to rest and recharge their mental and emotional batteries. Unlike extroverts who tend to thrive in social interactions and who gain energy from stimulating activities, introverts find solace and restoration in quiet peaceful environments.

This need for solitude and retreat is not a sign of isolation but rather an important practice for maintaining their overall health and well-being. If an HSP or an introverted person doesn't take time to rest and reset themselves, it can be difficult to complete even the mundane of tasks. Solitude is essential for their mental and emotional health.

Creativity Flourishes in Solitude

Many well known writers, musicians, artists, and thinkers often identify as introverts or highly sensitive people. This is not a coincidence; these individuals find their creative energy and inspiration in the quiet spaces of their own minds. The ability to delve deep into their own feelings and thoughts allows them to create works of art, literature, or innovation that often captivates the world.

If there are too many distractions in their environment, and because they are often overstimulated and over whelmed by too much noise, they cannot fully focus or access the part of their brain where their creative juices flow. This is also a reason why they seem to prefer working alone or for themselves. Silence and solitude is key for the introvert and for the highly sensitive person.

Introverted Not Shy

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​Excellent Listening Skills

​Introverts and highly sensitive people often excel in active listening. Their ability, and what I believe is a gift, is the way in which they can tune into the emotions and energy of others. This is what allows them to connect deeply with those around them. This natural ability not only fosters and enhances a better understanding of others, but it also contributes to building meaningful and authentic friendships and relationships.

An introverts and HSPs deep listening skills are what allows one to be seen, heard, and understood on a soul level. Their empathetic nature and inclination to help others is what makes them such unique and beautiful people to have in your life. 
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Thoughtful Decision-Making 

​When faced with making personal decisions, introverts and highly sensitive people are likely to engage in an intentional decision-making process. They consider various perspectives, think of the all the pros and cons of the outcome, and they take their time to arrive at a well-informed conclusion. This meticulous and graceful approach often leads to wise, fruitful, and thoughtful choices.

Empathy and Compassion

Introverts and highly sensitive people tend to possess a high level of empathy. Their sensitivity to the energy and emotions of others allows them to connect to people on a profound and powerful level. This empathy fosters compassion, understanding, and a genuine desire to make a positive impact on the lives of those around them.

Introverts and HSPs also tend to be non-judgmental in nature which allows them to have compassion for the experiences and circumstances of others. This non-judgmental attitude is what draws people to them often sharing very intimate and personal details about their own life with the introvert or HSP. In essence, their energy comes off as "safe" and people feel comfortable and confide in those they feel safe with.
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While introverts and highly sensitive people may be perceived as shy, reserved, or quiet, their traits and beautiful qualities contribute immensely to the richness and diversity of the world around us.

It's essential to acknowledge and appreciate these qualities, fostering environments that allow them to thrive and nurture their own unique strengths and gifts.

​Embracing the reflective, quiet, and sensitive nature of introverts and highly sensitive people only enriches our collective understanding of others and enhances the fabric of our interconnected world.
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​Vanessa Marie Dewsbury

​Writer, Spiritual Teacher, and Wellness Advocate. Vanessa loves to share her knowledge and wisdom with the intention of helping people live healthy and happy lives while living from a space of authenticity. Born in Ontario, Canada you can find Vanessa spending plenty of time in the outdoors during the warmer months and curling up in her cozy home during the colder months. She finds peace and solace by spending time alone and nurturing her introverted nature.
Connect with Vanessa on Instagram and join her thriving community.