Are you carrying the weight of the world and not realizing it? Empaths are not just “noticing” others’ feelings, they are absorbing these emotions.
During these unprecedented times, it may feel like you need to stay productive and heal others, because you understand that we’re all in this together – which can leave you with “compassion fatigue”. It’s an empath’s nature to want to put others first, especially when other people are in need of our help or are suffering. If you’re constantly absorbing emotional information from others (or from the news), it can be hard to realize your own thoughts and emotions vs. what you’re feeling and holding onto from others.
In other words, people’s problems or pain become your problems or pain.
Because empaths feel the emotions and energy of others in an overwhelming way, they have to carefully manage their emotions and practice a lot of self-care to avoid constant emotional fatigue. Understanding and acknowledging your empathic nature is the first step in self-care so that you can protect your own energy and emotions going forward.
Taking care of yourself is productive. It’s okay to put you first.
So, when was the last time you did something for yourself and said ‘no’ to unnecessary obligations?