High sensitivity and evolution. High sensitivity makes an important evolutionary contribution.
But what did nature have in mind?
In this post, you will learn why humanity would likely have gone extinct without highly sensitive people and why their abilities are particularly important in today's world.
High sensitivity from an evolutionary perspective
Let's go back 200,000 years. Humans lived in tribes, and 80% of the tribal members were characterized by strong drive and great curiosity. They were brave and defended and expanded their territory. Their task was to protect the tribe from the outside. So to speak, on the front lines.
The other 20% were characterized by high sensory perception. They could smell where water or food could be found and perceived the smallest noises that indicated possible dangers.
Special abilities of highly sensitive people for the preservation of the species.
- They were curious, observed a lot, and thought before they acted.
- Additionally, they had a high capacity for reflection, to learn from experiences. Their eye for detail helped them to perceive the smallest facial expressions and gestures.
- Combined with a strong ability to empathize, these skills were important for assessing outsiders – are they friendly towards us or do they want to steal our women?
- They always kept an eye on the moods of the tribe and the condition of individual tribal members, thus supporting and strengthening the social fabric.
These 20% were highly sensitive and protected their tribe from within. Through vigilance, mindfulness, and the ability to recognize connections – acting proactively and warning the tribe.
Highly sensitive and average sensitive people complement each other
This temperament distribution is important and serves for the preservation of the species. If there were only the 'daredevils', their recklessness would probably have come at a high price in the long run. If there were only the observers, the tribe could not develop well.
However, expansion and adaptability are important factors for survival. For this reason, the same temperament distribution can also be found in mammals. It serves evolutionarily for the preservation of the species. Many highly sensitive people also have highly sensitive animals.
High sensitivity according to Aron's model is innate
High sensitivity according to Aron's model is genetically determined. This has been proven in twin studies.
Genetic inheritance can also skip two generations. However, I have always found a highly sensitive parent in coaching so far.
There are some cultures where the abilities of highly sensitive people are valued. Due to our German history, other virtues have come to the fore in our culture and are still considered desirable by highly sensitive people, partly to this day. I find that very unfortunate. Especially in today's world, our abilities are needed more than ever.
Why are highly sensitive people important, especially in times of crisis?
The ability of highly sensitive people is particularly evident right now in the Corona crisis.
Most highly sensitive people (HSPs) I know took COVID-19 very seriously from the beginning. They wore gloves and masks before it was recommended and are mindful of contact. At work, they pushed for measures early on and sometimes met with strong resistance. They are often branded as hypochondriacs, which has nothing to do with it.
Through the way of thinking, adaptation to the current situation is a logical conclusion, which has since been confirmed by all the requirements.
And this has nothing to do with fear-mongering, as they are often accused of. It's simply about protecting oneself and others.
Especially in these times, it becomes clear how important the strengths of highly sensitive people are. Of course, high sensitivity can be totally annoying sometimes, and at the same time, our abilities are more important than ever, especially in times of crisis.
