Hyperawareness of other’s emotions can develop directly as a result of being in an abusive relationship with a narcissist.
Why is this so?
When someone is in an abusive relationship with a narcissist it is very typical they have to walk on egg shells around the narcissist because they never know what will set them off. Therefore, that person has to be able to read the narcissists’ facial expressions, gestures, and moods so they can tip toe around them. The problem is developing hyperawareness of other’s emotions can be extremely exhausting. The focus is always on others and their moods, not on yourself. It is making sure you yourself are “behaving the right way” instead of just being who you are and acting the way you want to act.
If you have found you have developed hyperawareness due to being in a relationship with a narcissists – the following are 5 strategies you can use to overcome that hyperawareness.
1. Set Boundaries – a boundary can be something as simple as saying no to hanging out with someone who makes you walk on egg shells around them. A boundary can be spending limited time around someone who makes you walk on egg shells around them. Boundaries are good to put in place so you can put your own mental health first and you can avoid situations that you must use hyperawareness in the first place or spend less time in those situations.
2. Self -Compassion – practicing self-compassion is a helpful way for overcoming hyperawareness because you turn your energy inward on yourself on how YOU are doing and how YOU are feeling rather than being focused on others. One way you can to this is connecting with your inner child. Ask your inner child if they are afraid and tell them you love them and you will protect them.
3. Grounding - going outside in your natural environment and grounding yourself on the Earth helps reduce anxiety and depression. The act of doing this is practicing being in the present moment. This can help you reduce hyperawareness of others because instead of worrying about what others are thinking you are grounded and present.
4. Developing awareness – Sitting still and noticing your thoughts can help you develop awareness of your hyperawareness. Noticing is the first step to evolving and letting go of habits that are no longer serving you. For example: if you notice you are fixated on another person’s mood, instead of stressing out about them you can let go and remind yourself you cannot control that person. You can remove yourself from the situation, and just let that person be.
5. Guided imagery – Lastly using guided imagery can help you develop boundaries between you and another person you may be hyperaware of. You can visualize a silver shield of protection between you and that person. You can visualize that shield will protect you from any negative moods or abuse.
I hope these practice habits help you reduce hyperawareness of others so you can begin to put yourself first again. I’d say the best tactic is setting boundaries and that is why it’s the first one I mentioned. If you need help letting go of hyperawareness contact me and begin therapy with me today! I would love to work with you. You can scroll to the bottom of this page to reach out.
Good Luck!
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