As a sleep consultant, I’ve spent years working with families and noticed a common thread among one group of parents – those who identify as sensitive or introverted. Quite often, these parents have challenges. They often feel drained in ways others may not understand. If you feel this way,  I promise, you are not alone. Today, let’s look at why finding “me time” matters so much for you.

What Makes Sensitive Parents Different?

Did you know all brains are not wired the same way? Sensitive people, scientifically known as highly sensitive people (HSPs), have something called sensory processing sensitivity (SPS). In simple terms, this means they process information much more intensely. Each experience feels deeper. For HSPs, even everyday moments can be overwhelming.

Studies even show that sensitive people have more brain activity in areas related to social and emotional processing. This can make them very empathetic, even toward people they do not know. Yes, empathy is a wonderful quality, but for highly sensitive people, it can be emotionally draining. They do not just sense the emotion – they may feel it in a way that mirrors their own experience.

Extroverts enjoy busy environments, and they look forward to new experiences. Introverts? Not so much. They often feel overstimulated by too much action and need quiet time to recharge.

Is Parenting More Draining for Sensitive Parents?

Children bring so much joy into our lives, and they also bring a steady stream of noise and needs. For a sensitive, introverted parent, this can quickly become a lot to handle. Parenting is loud, busy, and full of emotions. Do sensitive parents have stronger feelings about these interactions? For many, the answer is yes. Every cry, every laugh, every tantrum feels real and close. Sensitive parents do not just see or hear these moments—they feel them. Each sound, each need, seems to demand their full attention. Where others might brush things off, sensitive parents process everything. This constant stream of moments adds up. Without time to pause or reset, sensitive parents can end up feeling drained. They care deeply, and because of that, every day with their child can feel both rewarding and exhausting.

Why Is ‘Me Time’ So Important?

What does ‘Me Time’ mean for a parent? It is about recharging. Think of it like plugging in your phone when the battery runs low. Sensitive and introverted parents need this downtime to stay balanced. Yes, these moments can make a big difference. When we have time to recharge, a parent may be more patient when their child has a tantrum. They might respond calmly instead of feeling overwhelmed.

Many sensitive, introverted parents have this internal struggle – they wonder, “Why can’t I handle things like other ‘normal’ parents?” The answer is simple – you are different, and that is okay.

Your need for quiet time is not a flaw. It is part of what makes you who you are. This sensitivity gives you deep empathy and a way to connect with your child that many others may admire. But to keep giving your best, you need to take care of yourself, too.

How to help these parents find “Me Time”?

• Talk to your partner or family members about needing alone time. Even 15 minutes of quiet can make a difference.
• Just simple things like reading, meditation, or a solo walk in the park can help you recharge.
• Ask for support – parenting is a team effort! 
• Connect with another mother (parent) who also needs a break. Take turns watching each other’s kids for an hour or two each week. You both get time to recharge without added costs.
• Fill a basket with quiet activities like coloring books, puzzles, or audiobooks. Show kids that when the basket comes out, it is time for them to play quietly
• Take just 10 minutes in the early morning or after bedtime. Use this quiet time to journal, breathe, or enjoy a warm drink without interruptions.
• When the kids nap or watch a show, put everything else on hold. Skip chores and phone calls. Use this moment to relax with a book, music, or anything you like.
• Pause for a few deep breaths while waiting for something to heat up, or take a brief walk outside between activities. These tiny breaks add up over the day.
• Set a regular date with yourself each week. It can be a coffee or a quick solo walk – schedule it because this makes it easier to follow through.

Introverted or Extroverted? What Do You Bring to Child Sleep Consulting?

Do you ever wonder if being introverted or extroverted affects your ability as a child sleep consultant? The truth is, both bring strengths that can make a big impact.

Introverts have a natural skill for listening without interruption. They observe before reacting. They notice small details in sleep behaviors that others might miss. Their calm, observant style helps them get to the root of sleep issues without rushing. 

Many introverts also have strong empathy. They feel what others feel, which helps them connect with parents and children. As parents, they understand how important rest is for everyone in the family. Their advice comes from real experience and genuine care.

Can a sensitive, introverted parent become a sleep consultant? Yes, they can. In fact, their natural qualities – empathy, understanding, and careful thinking – are a perfect fit. These strengths help them connect with families and provide support that makes a real difference.

What Strengths Do Extroverts Bring to Sleep Consulting?

Extroverts bring energy and positivity that can be a lifeline for tired parents. Imagine a family struggling with sleep issues who meets a consultant with warmth and enthusiasm. Your extroverted nature means you are a clear communicator. You make complex sleep strategies simple and engaging, so parents not only understand – they feel ready to try them. Parents see you as an active partner, someone who is fully invested in their case.

So, yes, there is room for both introverts and extroverts in child sleep consulting – the reflective listener and the lively communicator. Both approaches matter. Each parent finds comfort in a different approach, and your unique style may be exactly what they need.

References

Acevedo BP, Aron EN, Aron A, Sangster MD, Collins N, Brown LL. The highly sensitive brain: an fMRI study of sensory processing sensitivity and response to others’ emotions. Brain Behav. 2014 Jul;4(4):580-94. doi: 10.1002/brb3.242. Epub 2014 Jun 23. PMID: 25161824; PMCID: PMC4086365.

Aron EN, Aron A. Sensory-processing sensitivity and its relation to introversion and emotionality. J Pers Soc Psychol. 1997 Aug;73(2):345-68. doi: 10.1037//0022-3514.73.2.345. PMID: 9248053.

Pluess, M., Lionetti, F., Aron, E. N., & Aron, A. (2023). People differ in their sensitivity to the environment: An integrated theory, measurement and empirical evidence. Journal of Research in Personality, 104, 104377.