While being how to not be so sensitive is a trait that comes with many benefits, it can also lead to some challenges. Being too sensitive can cause people to overreact to everyday events that others take in stride. This can result in feeling overwhelmed by run-of-the-mill tasks, assuming slights that are not intended and misinterpreting constructive criticism or feedback as rejection. The good news is that there are steps you can take to not be so sensitive.

Understand that your feelings are valid. Being highly sensitive makes you more empathetic and allows you to feel in tune with others, making it easy to pick up on the little changes that can make them upset. It also means that you can often sense when someone is uncomfortable or needs help, which can be a real asset in life.

“Building Resilience: How to Manage Sensitivity in Daily Life

Learn to control your emotions. Practicing mindfulness and self-awareness techniques, redirecting your emotions with displacement exercises, and jumping into others’ shoes to gain perspective are all healthy ways to manage difficult emotions. Learning to identify triggers and desensitize them over time can also help.

Surround yourself with positive people. Being around loving, supportive individuals who value your opinion and feelings can help you to build a strong sense of self-worth, which can make you less vulnerable to criticism and negative self-talk.

Take more time for yourself. Being a highly sensitive person can be tiring, so it is important to find ways to recharge and spend time on your own. This can be accomplished by avoiding environments that trigger you, finding ways to distract yourself with hobbies and interests and by practicing relaxing exercises like meditation and deep breathing.