How to Embrace Being Highly Sensitive and High Sensation Seeker

Being highly sensitive and a high sensation seeker are two traits that often coincide, but they can sometimes be misunderstood or seen as conflicting.

To embrace being both highly sensitive and a high sensation seeker, it’s important to find a balance between stimulating experiences and moments of rest.

Acknowledging the needs of each trait and giving equal attention to both can help ensure that they coexist in harmony.  

In this article, we’ll explore what it means to have both of these traits and how you can embrace them in a healthy and positive way. So, let’s dive in and learn more about how to thrive as a highly sensitive person (HSP) and high sensation seeker (HSS)!

Embracing Your Dual Traits as a HSP and HSS

As a highly sensitive person and high sensation seeker, you may often feel like you’re balancing two sides of the same coin.

On one hand, you love trying new things and feeling thrilled; on the other, you pick up on small details around you that can easily overwhelm you.

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To understand this dual nature, think of your sensitivity as a complex inner world where emotions and sensations are processed deeply. This inner world is what leads you to seek out new and exciting situations – it’s what sparks your sense of adventure and curiosity.

Recognize that having both traits is a special thing. You get to see the world in two distinct ways – one that lets you form deep connections and another that pushes you to seek out new experiences.

To make the most of this, it’s important to be self-aware and find a balance. This means knowing when your sensitivity needs time to rest, and when your desire for new experiences is calling out.

It might feel like a tricky balancing act sometimes, but believe that you can handle both sides of yourself. Embrace all parts of who you are and find ways to satisfy both your need for adventure and your need for quiet time.

Remember, this is not about compromise, but about flourishing in every part of yourself.

Understanding Highly Sensitive People (HSPs)

When Dr. Elaine N. Aron introduced the concept of high sensitivity in her groundbreaking research in the 90s, she made popular the term “HSP”.

Since then, other researchers have looked into this personality trait, also known as sensory processing sensitivity (SPS), found in 15-20% of people.

A key part of being an HSP is having a finely tuned nervous system. They are very aware of their surroundings and notice subtle details.

Learn More: 9 Common Myths About Highly Sensitive People»

Sadly, high sensitivity is often seen as a wekness in our society. There are many misconceptions about them because of this.

However, being an HSP also brings positive traits like intuition, creativity, and intelligence. They feel positive emotions intensely, making them happier.

Read More: 7 Signs You Are a Highly Sensitive Person & How to Cope With It»

Though each highly sensitive person is different, they often share common traits. Dr. Aron has described them with the acronym “DOES“:

• Depth of processing
• Overstimulation
• Emotional responsiveness/Empathy
• Sensitive to subtleties

1. Depth of Processing

Highly sensitive people tend to process information at a depper level in the brain compared to non-HSPs. This leads them to analyze various aspects of a situation or problem carefully, taking time to reflect on their thoughts and feelings before making thoughtful decisions.

Additionally, HSPs often trust their intuition and instincts in their decision-making process.

2. Overstimulation

As someone who is highly sensitive, you might often feel overwhelmed by outside influences because of your finely-tuned nervous system. This heightened sensitivity can make you more easily affected by loud sounds, strong smells, busy places, disorder, and even others’ feelings.

Since the ongoing focus needed to handle these inputs can be tiring for highly sensitive people, it can easily lead to feelings of being overwhelmed.

3. Emotional Responsiveness/Empathy

Highly sensitive people have a strong emotional awareness, feeling emotions deeply and intensely, more than others. They also show empathy, easily connecting with others’ feelings. This emotional depth can be a gift, but it can also overwhelm HSPs.

Learn More: Highly Sensitive, Introvert, or Empath – How to Know?»

4. Sensitive to Subtleties

Highly sensitive people possess a heightened awareness of subtle cues that often go unnoticed by others. They have a keen perception of small details, such as room energy and people’s moods.

Having this heightened awareness helps them foresee possible risks, which makes them great at protecting themselves and others.

Being a HSP has many strengths. Many highly sensitive people excel in jobs needing focus on details and strong empathy, like counseling or social work.

Read More: The Best and Worst Jobs for Highly Sensitive People

Understanding High Sensation Seekers (HSSs)

High-sensation seekers have a strong desire for constant excitement and novelty to feel fulfilled. They crave new experiences and sensations, often going to great lengths to seek them out.

Contrary to popular belief, not all high sensation seekers engage in extreme activities like skydiving or mountain climbing. Some find satisfaction in trying something new, such as taking salsa lessons or trying exotic foods.

The key is to constantly have new and exciting experiences to keep their brain stimulated and satisfied.

High sensation seekers don’t necessarily seek out danger intentionally. While some may engage in extreme sports for an adrenaline rush, others find fulfillment in simply trying something new.

This desire for novelty drives personal growth and expansion for most HSSs.

For high sensation seekers, venturing beyond their usual comfort and overcoming challenges helps them build confidence. They have a greater zest for life and thoroughly enjoy it because they don’t let their fears hold them back from pursuing what truly excites them.

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According to Marvin Zuckerman, there are four sub-scales that make up the high sensation seeking personality:

• Thrill and Adventure Seeking
• Experience Seeking
• Disinhibition
• Susceptibility to Boredom

1. Thrill and Adventure Seeking 

Thrill-seekers, also known as high sensation seekers, have an insatiable desire for excitement and adventure. They are naturally drawn to thrilling activities like skydiving, bungee jumping, and rock climbing.

Thus, they take great joy in pushing their boundaries and feeling the adrenaline rush that comes with physical or mental challenges.

2. Experience Seeking

High sensation seekers always look for new and different experiences to excite their minds and senses. They enjoy traveling to various places, meeting new people, trying different foods, and doing unique activities.

Daily routines are not their thing; instead, they prefer exploring new things in life. Their motivation is to broaden their horizons and perspectives, always eager to try something new.

3. Disinhibition

Individuals with high sensation seeking tendencies find joy in breaking away from conventional norms and regulations that could limit their experiences.

Consequently, they may partake in risky actions and explore new ways to overcome inhibitions, such as turning to alcohol, drugs, or other unconventional methods.

4. Susceptibility to Boredom

High sensation seekers dislike boredom and monotony. They get tired of routines, repetitive situations, and seeing the same people.

Consequently, to avoid dullness and restlessness, they always look for new experiences to stay engaged and mentally stimulated. This fear of being stuck in uneventful situations drives them to seek fun and exciting experiences continuously.

5 Signs That You May Be Both HSP and HSS

According to Tertia Riegler, a coach specializing in feminine embodiment for highly sensitive individuals and high sensation seekers, also known as Sensitive Sensation Seekers (S3s), the following signs can help you identify if you fall into this category:

1. Thriving with an Active Lifestyle

You enjoy seeking new experiences and challenges to stay engaged, unlike those who prefer relaxing on the couch. Even when tired, your drive for activity pushes you to seek out fresh adventures and opportunities.

2. Valuing Freedom

The idea of freedom is very important to you and drives your life. Not only does it impact your decisions, but it also shapes your identity. You appreciate your uniqueness and feel content following your own rules without outside influence.

Being commanded by others or told what to do can make you angry and make you want to resist any kind of control.

3. Needing New Experiences

Independence and freedom are highly prized by S3s. They always seek new experiences for an exciting, fulfilling life, but this can lead to feelings of overwhelm and restlessness.

Balancing routine and spontaneity is key for their well-being. Try to find what works best for you without pressure to conform to societal norms.

4. Coping with Rapid Emotions

Being highly sensitive and having a strong desire for new experiences can be tough. Because it means balancing the need for stability with the craving for excitement. This mix can lead to quick changes in mood, going from super happy to really sad in no time.

Understanding and accepting both sides – sensitivity and the need for thrills – can bring peace and happiness as an S3. Embrace every part of yourself, even the ones that seem contradictory. They’re what make you special.

5. Embracing Spontaneity

Highly sensitive individuals are often thoughtful and careful in their actions, weighing the advantages and disadvantages before deciding.

However, sometimes they may embrace spontaneity and take risks due to their strong desire for new experiences.

If you’re curious about your own traits and whether you fall under the category of highly sensitive person (HSP) or highly sensation seeker (HSS), you can take free personality tests created by Dr. Elaine N. Aron.

When you complete both tests, it can offer a deeper insight into your unique personality traits.

To access the Highly Sensitive Person test, click here.

To access the Highly Sensation Seeker test, click here.

The Challenges of Being an HSP and HSS

Being both highly sensitive and a high sensation seeker presents unique challenges, needing a careful balance of two distinct personality traits. In a society that often prefers risk-taking to sensitivity, it’s common for the high sensation seeker to dominate internal conflicts.

However, as we age and care less about societal expectations, this balance may shift.

This dual nature can feel like having one foot on the gas and the other on the brake. As a result it can make it hard to find a middle ground and navigate inner conflicts.

Let’s look at some specific challenges to keep in mind:

1. Balancing Your Energy Levels

If you have traits of being highly sensitive (HSP) and a high sensation seeker (HSS), your energy levels might change for different reasons.

HSPs can feel tired from too much stimulation, while HSSs might feel drained after long periods of being alone or feeling bored. Knowing why your energy varies can help you balance it better and stay energized.

2. Navigating Internal Conflicts

As a sensitive sensation seeker, you may have two distinct versions of yourself – your highly sensitive side and your high sensation seeking side – that are in constant conflict.

This inner battle can lead to feelings of disappointment due to the conflict between your sensitivity and your desire for excitement. Striking a balance between trying new things and respecting your sensitivity is crucial to avoid these regrets.

3. Striking a Balance

While the sensation-seeking side may typically dominate internal arguments, significant stress or trauma can cause your highly sensitive side to take over as a protective mechanism.

Therefore, it’s important to strike a balance between both traits. Allowing your highly sensitive side to dominate too often can limit your ability to fully embrace life. Beaware when the signs of your HSP side is taking over and instead aim for harmony between both sides.

4. Balancing Work and Relationships

For highly sensitive individuals who are also high sensation seekers, some parts of life can be tough. It’s not easy to find a satisfying job that fits your needs.

Likewise, finding a partner who shares these traits might be tricky.

When it comes to being a parent, creating a safe and nurturing space while encouraging exploration can be a challenge, especially for highly sensitive individuals. Balancing both sides of your character can bring emotional peace and a feeling of completeness.

Remember, it’s all about finding a mix that lets you lead a fulfilling and enjoyable life.

Embracing Your Dual Nature as a Sensitive Sensation Seeker

To find success and happiness in life, it’s vital to have balance, especially for those who are highly sensitive and sensation-seekers.

Despite these traits being the opposite of one another, they can work together well, creating a special and fulfilling life.

For sensitive sensation seekers, it’s crucial to accept both parts of who you are. This means setting limits and making self-care a priority while also trying new things outside your usual routine. When you ignore one side for the other, it can lead to stress and feeling emotionally drained.

By finding a good mix between being sensitive and enjoying new experiences, you can really thrive and get the best of both worlds.

Here are some tips to help you make the most of your sensitive and sensation-seeking sides:

1. Establish Healthy Routines

Sensitive sensation seekers thrive on structure and routine. For this reason, incorporate daily habits that prioritize self-care and relaxation.

2. Create a Suitable Work-life Setup

Strive for a balance between work and play. Look for a job or career that offers both structure and flexibility, providing opportunities to explore new things.

3. Set Boundaries

It’s essential to set boundaries in relationships and with yourself. Clearly communicate your limits and don’t hesitate to say no when necessary.

4. Embrace New Experiences

While routines are important, don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. Trying new things can bring excitement and fulfillment to your life.

5. Prioritize Self-care

Make self-care and relaxation a priority in your daily routine. By doing this you will recharge your batteries and prevent burnout.

Learn More: How to Build Self-Care Practices Into Your Daily Life»

6. Surround Yourself with Supportive People

Building a strong support system is crucial for sensitive sensation seekers. Surround yourself with understanding and accepting individuals who can offer support when needed.

7. Embrace Your Unique Traits

Remember that your sensitive and sensation-seeking traits are strengths, not weaknesses. So embrace them and celebrate your uniqueness.

Read More: How to Embrace Being a Highly Sensitive Person»

Incorporating self-care practices such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga can further enhance the balance between these traits and prevent burnout.

Final Thoughts

As we grow older, our HSP side might feel less comfortable with certain activities, which is natural. But, don’t let this stop you from trying new things and nurturing your HSS side.

While your HSP side wants to keep you safe, it’s important to embrace your HSS aspect.

Remember, both of these qualities shape who you are. Honoring both sides is vital for true happiness and fulfillment. Your HSS side and HSP side each have unique needs for happiness.

When you accept and embrace both sides of your personality, you can make wiser life choices. So, don’t hesitate to let your HSS side shine and explore new opportunities! You deserve happiness in all areas of your life, and your HSP self will appreciate it.