Growth is a common theme in nearly every aspect of life: politics, jobs, life, etc. Yet every day, personal, professional, and political growth is deterred by the world’s inability to actively control and understand the importance of sensitivity’s role.
We live in a progressively liberal world, based mainly on social justice ideals. While the importance of social justice is increasingly important, the biggest driving factor of the movement itself also hinders the development and growth of society. Social justice is based on beliefs such as empathy, sympathy, and, unfortunately, sensitivity.
Ultimately, the tip-toeing nature of sensitivity decreases the validity of social justice movements and turns the whole system into a farce. Understandably, this creates a divide between the political parties and creates political dissonance that hinders any sort of success in the legislative system. When this occurs, we get things like government shut downs, which benefits no one.
Sensitivity also hinders more than just societal change and growth – it effects each singular person’s professional life. If someone is too sensitive, their ability to focus on certain tasks at hand or actively add value to their professional situations becomes greatly diminished. Although we are taught to “think before we speak,” the fact of the matter is that we are all fallible humans who will say nasty things on occasion.
Most of the time, these remarks are meant in jest or in passing, without a second thought. Dwelling on these remarks will ultimately hamper your spirit, when instead you can brush them off as if nothing can bother you and go about your day working to the best of your capabilities.
Furthermore, not understanding the fine line between sensitivity and too much sensitivity can affect your everyday life, with situations ranging from a few words from family members or daily actions from a friend.
Not having enough sensitivity can make you come off as heartless and aloof, whereas if you are too sensitive, you can come off as needy or whiny. Something a lot of people forget to remember is that this is your one life; do not waste time overthinking or dwelling on things that do not matter, like a simple, thoughtless remark.
Obviously, this leads to important and serious debates on things such as sexual harassment, discrimination, and bullying, so it is important to understand that I in no way believe that sensitivity itself is a negative thing. The world we live in becomes darker and darker every day so, all things considered, it is important to be able to feel that empathy and sympathy.
There will never be a day where you will not have to watch what you say. There will never be day where you will be able to whine and overanalyze as much as you would like. We live in a society where your feelings will not always be the strongest weapon in your arsenal of development.
The best thing to do is find that thin line of understanding and strength, that ever-changing mark of sensitivity, and tread it with care. Ultimately, know that this is the one precious life we are allowed and there is no promise that tomorrow will come around, so make sure you do not take the petty stuff to heart.
