Superpowers of an Extroverted HSP
1. Acting ability
The HSP’s ability to notice things others don’t makes it easier for them to imitate others or develop characters. Being able to pick up on subtle body language, quirks and mannerisms makes for effective acting. Add to that HSPs extreme awareness of feelings and you’ve got a powerful combination. HSP who are introverted can obviously be actors too and many are, but the added extroversion brings a confidence that makes it very easy for these children to enjoy the stage.
If your child shows an interest, encourage drama classes or any opportunities to act, dance or sing.
2. Making friends
Wherever we go, my daughter makes friends in seconds. She makes each new friend feel special and it’s not hard to see why they enjoy her company. Her bubbly, extroverted personality makes her great to be around and her HS awareness of feelings means she is kind and shows empathy. Extroverted HSPs can build rapport quickly, tuning in to people and getting on with them at their level – adjusting the way they interact with people depending on their age, interests, personalities and moods.
And they make great friends too! Their HS side is reflective and empathetic. And because they feel emotions so deeply, when you’re loved by a HSP you really are loved! And an extroverted one will let you know it!
Talk with your child about their friends as they will be a very valued part of their lives.
3. Activists
Extroverted HSP can often get very passionate about a particular cause – they will think deeply about human rights, feel strongly about animal cruelty or damage to the environment. News items or documentaries about these types of issues tend to affect HSP deeply. And with the outgoing nature of an extrovert – people are going to hear about it!
Encourage your child to think about a cause they want to support and help them come up with an action plan of how they can contribute or promote it. My daughter went shop to shop with free chocolate cake promoting Red Panda Day one year and raised money to support a Red Panda for a year.
4. Handling crowds and parties
HSP tend not to handle crowded spaces or parties all that well, but the more extroverted they are, the easier it is. Some even thrive on it! They might start planning their own parties and events, and with their tuned in HS side they’re great at thinking about what their guests will enjoy and how to make them comfortable. My daughter started planning her own parties at age 11!
But remember, even if they really want to, planning a party will probably be overwhelming for a HSP and they’ll need your support to handle this – it’s a good opportunity to learn stress management. After any busy event even extroverted HS kids need quite a bit of down time. And don’t expect them to go to sleep easily that night!
Of course, other non-HSE can be great at all of these things too! But perhaps you recognise your child here? I’d love to hear about them.
Originally published HERE.
Kelly Eden is a solo mum of three lovely daughters, living on the beautiful West Coast of New Zealand. She has a teaching background and specialises in Childhood disorders and intervention. As a parenting writer for national magazines in New Zealand for many years, Kelly loves helping parents feel empowered with skills and knowledge to parent more purposefully. For more practical and thought-provoking parenting ideas check out her blog at lifewithlittleandlula.com
