Taking It To Heart: The Journal of a Highly Sensitive Person

By Rowena Fortuin

These are journal entries I wrote between 2021 and 2022. They describe my experiences as a Highly Sensitive Person, as well as how I've been coping with anxiety. Ever since I can remember, I've been told I was too sensitive and that I took things to heart too often. I tried numerous ways to transform myself into something opposite to what I truly am. I was frustrated by people's perceptions of me, so it was easier just to give in to their expectations. That proved harmful to my mental health and my true self. Later on, I would learn about high sensitivity and what I read struck a chord with me. It made me understand who I really am on a deeper level and the knowledge I've gained has enriched my mind and heart. 

Journaling is an outlet for me to express my innermost thoughts and emotions, to bring a sense of calm. A source I use to ground myself. My mental health issues are also documented within the pages of this book. Through sharing these reflections, it is my hope that whoever reads this will be able to relate and identify, finding some kind of comfort. Whether you're an HSP or not, I truly hope you walk away with something you didn't have before reading it. 

• Language: English
• Publisher: Rowena Fortuin
• Release date: Mar 15, 2023
• ISBN: 9798215694695

Rowena Fortuin

Rowena Fortuin is the author of Caged, a story about finding silver linings, and Stitches and Strings, a book about learning to embrace your sensitivity. Rowena is passionate about stories and believes that everybody has one to tell. Through words she hopes to evoke a sense of empathy. 

Book preview

Disclaimer

Although this book contains my original journal entries, there are parts that I’ve left out and edited. Names have been changed to protect the identity and privacy of those mentioned.

An Exercise

What’s the situation that’s causing you worry?

I need to make an appointment to see a therapist about my anxiety; get my vaccine; get an eye test and start volunteer listening again. Thinking about it all slightly overwhelms me.

What’s the fear?

I feel anxious because when I think about everything I still need to do, they seem like mammoth tasks and I’m worried about how I’m going to get it all done. With the therapist appointment, I’m nervous about the kind of person the therapist will be and what he/she will talk about. With the vaccine, I’m nervous and worried about the pain I’ll feel when the needle is inserted in my arm and how the vaccine will make me feel. With the volunteer listening, I’m worried that the members I’m listening to are going to criticise me.

Where do you feel the stress in your body?

I feel it in my upper and lower back, and in my neck