Embracing Sensitivity: The Strength of Softness

I often describe myself as a sensitive person—and I think my husband would agree (HA!). I cry often, feel deeply, and can be easily overwhelmed by loud noises or bright lights (especially fluorescents!). Sometimes, I feel like I'm walking around, completely exposed, much like the jellyfish in this image. I sometimes wish I had a turtle's shell to protect me from the harshness of the world—the noise, the chaos, the demands of life. It's not always easy to be sensitive in a world that often values toughness over tenderness.

I also consider myself an empath. I can walk into a room and immediately feel the energy. I can sense another person's energy the moment I meet them, and it impacts me deeply. I feel everything so intensely, and while this can be exhausting, it also allows me to connect with others in a way that feels genuine and true.

In our society, there's a strong emphasis on masculinity, strength, and the ability to push through adversity. We value control, structure, and toughness, and there's often a pressure to harden ourselves in response. It's easy to get caught up in this cultural pattern and to believe that I should suppress my sensitivity and my need to protect my energy. But I’m learning that softness isn't weakness, and being sensitive doesn’t mean I’m fragile.

Through my word of the year, surrender, I am learning how to soften and embrace my feminine energy more fully. This isn't about gender—it’s about energy frequencies. Masculine energy can be likened to mountains—solid, strong, and unyielding—while feminine energy is more like the river, flowing, nurturing, and adaptable. Both are valuable and essential. Neither is better than the other. We need both to create balance in our lives.

As I continue to embrace my sensitivity, I am learning to see it as a strength, not something to hide. Being sensitive allows me to empathize with others, to be kind, and to offer understanding in a world that often feels overwhelming. My sensitivity helps me connect with others on a deeper level, creating space for compassion and care.

So, I remind myself daily that it’s not wrong to be sensitive. The world needs more softness, more empathy, more kindness. It’s not about becoming hard and tough—it’s about learning to embrace my softness as a strength, and allowing that energy to flow and create space for both myself and others to thrive.

“It’s not wrong to be sensitive; the world needs more of your softness.”

I’m learning to accept and love my sensitivity—because it’s who I am, and it’s a beautiful thing.