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So You Think You're An Empath?
August 9, 2022
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I've spoken about labels in past columns.
I've spoken about how clinging to labels is a slippery slope.
On the one hand, in an uncertain world during confusing times, it gives us a sense of permanence to have something seemingly "solid" to hold on to.
"I am a teacher."
"I am a mom."
"I am the middle child."
"I am religious."
"I am overweight."
"I am young."
Labels are not who we are though. They are a slice of who we are, as an ever evolving person, in a constantly changing lifetime.
A label I have heard more and more people referring to themselves as lately, is that of "empath."
Some of the characteristics of an empath include being highly sensitive, easily able to pick on others energy and adopt those energies as their own.
I am currently reading a book on a condition called borderline personality disorder (BPD).
Some of the signs of BPD are exactly the same as those of being an empath.
It stuck me how people are enthusiastic about saying they are an empath, but many would be reticent to adopt a label that has the word "disorder."
Make no mistake, some people do.
My point is that no label by itself is necessarily good or bad.
However, we should take a step back and assess whether we let our labels define us, and if so, why.
While it comforting to use a label to help us feel a sense of belonging or identity, it is important to remember that we are multidimensional and are always growing.
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