Do empaths and highly sensitive people have a difficult time asking for help?
Answer: Empaths and highly sensitive people are often overly conscious of not wanting to burden others. They are more comfortable with giving than receiving. That’s why it’s important to allow yourself to receive in small ways and then meditate on all the positive energy you receive. Receiving and giving need to be balanced.
Growing up many empaths didn’t feel safe asking for help for various reasons, including feeling like a burden to their parents and family but now is a good time to go beyond your comfort level and let loving people give to you. This also includes taking in the energy of nature and spirit, not just people. It will be a joy for you once you get used to it.
In my book The Empath’s Survival Guide I discuss that empaths must strike a balance of energy going out and energy coming in. We have such big hearts that we often err on the side of giving too much to friends, family, spouses, and children. This wears us out. We help too much, we give too much, we don’t receive enough in return. Finding balance is of paramount importance in protecting our own energy. Both giving and receiving is a recipe for a healthy and empowered life.
Knowing your needs and being able to ask for help is a strong form of self-protection for empaths. Then you can be in your full power. Ask yourself, “What do I need that I’ve been afraid to ask for? Which of my sensitivities would I most like the most support? What would make me feel most comfortable?” Inwardly pose these questions or others that surface for you. Then intuitively tune in to the answers rather than trying to figure them out. Listen to your body and its signals. Let any “aha” feelings and intuitive insights flow. Take special note of those intuitions that make you feel more powerful and protected.
Finding your voice to ask for support is equivalent to finding your power. Otherwise you may become exhausted, anxious, or feel like a doormat where your basic needs are unmet.
Keep honoring your sensitivities,
Judith