So what’s up for discussion? Environments! Which is rather funny since we are in the midst of moving and our environment consists of boxes, boxes and more boxes. At a certain point the disruption is like fingernails down a chalkboard. We know you get it since the majority of our readers and clients are Highly Sensitive as well. We all need our environments to enhance us, encourage us and energise us. (The only thing energising me now is the move date closing in!) It’s clear why this topic came up as I sit surrounded by empty shelves and piles of boxes.
Clients quite often talk ‘space’ issues, especially when their environment, work or home, isn’t working for them. Many fear being judged ‘shallow’ by worrying about their physical environments. So let’s get that out of the way…
There is nothing ‘shallow’ about honouring your unique sensitivity and designing an environment that raises your creativity and spirit.
Really, can environments actually create or contribute to burnout? Oh, my dear, they sure can. Physical surroundings affect our physical, mental and emotional health, sense of wellbeing, and most definitely creativity. Our environment can uplift and energise us or drain us to the point of depression. So what factors should you consider when looking for or designing an environment for your sensitive nature both at home and at work?
On the practical side consider: natural light vs artificial light, noise levels (including white noise), temperature, air conditioning, safety, space, openness, privacy, order vs clutter, access to fresh air, distractions, cleanliness…
Then reflect on the aesthetics of your environments and how these affect you: peacefulness, beauty, colour, style, flow, furnishings, artwork, music, scent, fresh flowers, flooring, and the presence of nature including animals.
From the moment we open our eyes in the morning all of our senses are impacted by our environment.
A bad-fit work environment can decrease effectiveness, productivity and of course creativity. It can promote errors and even raise interpersonal tension and conflict. If an environment is such a bad fit that it becomes toxic it can increase stress and anxiety, create mood, appetite or sleep changes, and even lead to physical symptoms to the point of illness.
I once worked in an environment with carpets so thick you felt like you were walking on clouds. The atmosphere was intensely quiet, all you could hear was white noise and I almost went mad! Who would have thought such luxury could be oppressive.
Environments affect us in so many ways, for example, working in ‘old’ buildings that are damp or musty can trigger or exacerbate allergies or sinus problems; a lack of daylight can lead to feeling unnaturally sleepy or de-energised; lighting can contribute to headaches; a pure white environment can lead to lightheadedness or dizziness for some HSPs; strange smells in an environment can cause nausea (even strong perfume can create problems); too much movement or noise can lead to irritability; a lack of social stimulation can lead to loneliness even depression.
But wait, let’s not focus purely on the negative impact and forget that environments can inspire us and spur us on. The ‘right’ environment can calm us, help us fall in love, push us to try new things and accomplish and achieve our dreams. An inspiring environment helps the poem or book get written, the painting emerge from the canvas, the latest fashion spring from your sewing machine, or the best cake ever emerge from the oven.
The serenity of our environment helps keep us in touch with spirit.
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Creating an environment that does all of these things is the main reason we are moving, not just houses, but cities! The ‘must haves’ on our environment list include beauty, creativity, culture, nature, convenience of lifestyle and our health, physically, emotionally and spiritually. Then of course it has to suit the burnout pups! (Between you and me, I have found Hawaiian print dog coats…I’m thinking beachware! Now you know you want to watch for this on their Pinterest board!)
If you want to get rid of that burnout lifestyle then it’s time to take your environment and raise it to new heights. Whatever the style your boldest self calls for, be it elegant, luxurious, minimalist or quirky, give it the respect it’s worthy of because you are worth it!
Here’s one great tip:
Like we said, the minute you open your eyes in the morning your senses engage with your environment. What one simple thing could you add, take-away or change that would elevate your comfort and quality of living? Got one? Do it now.
What’s New
The Burnout Queens ‘Essential Classes’ are being launched! Each one is a great addition to your resource library, not to mention your sanity! First up…
Get the Skinny on Burnout!
Are you ready to take your first step towards living a burnout-free lifestyle?
Well, creative-one, this is exactly where you need to start! Our fabulous and super-reasonable 3-video ‘essential’ class is your fundamental step to becoming a Burnout Queen…strong, resilient, enthusiastic and powerful.
What’s not to love about that!
Read about it here: http://theburnoutqueens.com/get-the-skinny-on-burnout/
Next class waiting in the wings: Have You Been Raised & Trained to Burn Out? (What do you think…have you?) Watch for an announcement shortly.
Until next time…Grab Life by the Crown!
