What I've Learned About Being an Empath

I think I am an Empath; I portray many characteristics of being an Empath. I feel others pain, and it takes conscious effort for me to not absorb or try to fix it. In relationships I often to try to put other people first, as others' happiness is important to me as my own. My relationships can get intense fast, because I read other people's energy and emotion, and I desire to connect on a deep level. I connect with people who are suffering, and I want to heal and help them. I have an inquisitive mind, always looking for answers, analyzing and theorizing. I want to understand things, and I follow down explanations and answers. I'm creative and passionate; I love designing, crafting, art, nature, music, acting. I like uncluttered space, as disarray clutters my psyche. I hate when people are put down or bullied, even inadvertently. I'm very sensory, and certain repetitive sounds, smells, and even textures bother me. I like to think of my self as a life-seeker, an adventurer, always up for the next challenge. Being an empath is a blessing and a curse.

I need to constantly remind myself that I cannot fix people. People can only fix themselves. I need to remember that validation doesn't come from others' entrusting me with their feelings/pain. I do not need to "take care" of anyone. I need to live authentically and cannot live beneath anyone's manipulation/charm. My heart is open, maybe too open, so please if I entrust you with it, please don't take advantage of me.

Read about the Toxic Attraction Between Empaths and Narcissists