#273 | Why Taking Care of Yourself Last Doesn't Work as a Highly Sensitive Person

Are you constantly putting yourself last — and wondering why you're so drained?

If you're a highly sensitive person (HSP), your empathy and deep sense of responsibility can drive you to care for everyone else first. But what if this “selfless” habit is actually sabotaging your wellbeing — and your ability to serve others?

In this episode of Stress Management for Highly Sensitive People, Todd Smith explores why taking care of yourself last is not only unsustainable, but harmful — and what a smarter, more balanced approach looks like. This Strategy Friday session is filled with practical insights tailored to the unique needs of HSPs who long for inner peace without sacrificing their caring nature.

Listen to discover:

1. Why your natural HSP tendencies make self-neglect feel "normal" — and how to shift that pattern.

2. The hidden costs of chronic overgiving, from burnout to resentment and diminished confidence.

3. A conscious, empowering framework for budgeting your time and energy — so you can thrive while still giving from the heart.

Take a few minutes for yourself today — press play to learn how honoring your needs can actually make you a better giver.

 

Todd Smith, founder of True Inner Freedom

Dreaming of a stress-free, balanced life? Visit trueinnerfreedom.com and complete the HSP Stress Survey. Gain clarity on your stress triggers and enjoy a free 15-minute Inner Freedom Call designed to guide you toward lasting inner peace and fulfillment.

Are you a highly sensitive person (HSP) or someone who identifies as hypersensitive or neurodivergent? This podcast is dedicated to helping highly sensitive people (HSPs) navigate overwhelm and stress by using The Work of Byron Katie—a powerful method for questioning stressful thoughts and finding true inner freedom.

We dive deep into stress management strategies, coping with stress, and stress relief methods specifically tailored for HSPs. Learn how to manage emotions, especially negative ones, and explore effective stress reduction techniques that go beyond the surface to address the root causes of anxiety and pressure.

Whether you’re interested in learning how to lower stress, handle stress and pressure, or reduce stress through practical techniques, we provide insights and support based on The Work of Byron Katie. Discover how this transformative approach can help you decrease stress, find inner peace, and create balance in your life.

Join us to learn about various coping strategies for stress, all designed to support HSPs in their journey toward emotional well-being.