Dear Ydna001,
Welcome and it’s great you’ve reached out for support.
I think when there’s been abuse in childhood and adolescence it can definitely affect us throughout life, even when we’ve had some support later on along the way. I also experienced abusive behaviour growing up and I know it’s affected my confidence and sense of self.
I don’t think it’s a case of you being too sensitive which can be a label others put on us or we can put on ourselves. Being a sensitive person can actually be a real attribute, including being intuitive and emotionally intelligent. So while we can feel very vulnerable at times, and this is so normal with an abuse history, there is also strength in vulnerability, such as compassionate insight and a sense of humanity. I wonder if there is a way to re-orient your sense of self towards realising the strengths you have and what they may offer you in life including your work situation?
From what you describe, it sounds like it feels like others perceive you as being sort of interfering with the health and safety work, like it’s a bit of a hassle for them to deal with health and safety stuff. I wonder if there are ways to make it more light-hearted with co-workers where you can have a kind of friendly resilience while still enforcing the necessary health and safety procedures? Sometimes it’s possible to disarm others who might not be keen on something and bring them on side, just through our openness and interpersonal communication with them. I think when we value ourselves in a non-judgemental way, it’s easier for us to project in a positive, constructive way to others. As someone who is very gentle and sensitive myself, I do understand that that can be challenging and easier said than done. But I think it’s a case of just taking small steps and supporting yourself along the way. It’s like backing yourself in your interactions with others with kindness and compassion. It can be hard not to take others’ reactions personally, but it’s very important to realise it’s not really our personal burden to carry when our intentions are good and we are doing our job.
Do you feel you have any supporters at work, such as co-workers who would understand your situation? I’m imagining someone in a similar role to you may get it. Or is there anyone else in your life you can talk things through with?
Feel free to chat further here if you would like. We are listening.
Take good care,
Eagle Ray
