Feel Invited, Not Obligated


Dear Friends,

I’ve been thinking about you this week. In the U.S., this is the moment when the holiday season officially shifts into high pressure—emotionally, socially, financially, energetically.

There is PRESSURE...

  • Pressure to have a meal with loved ones who may drive you a little crazy.
  • Pressure to travel and socialize.
  • Pressure to spend money because the deals feel too good to miss.
  • Pressure to celebrate holidays that aren’t even yours.
  • Pressure to be cheerful.
  • Pressure to make sure your kids are as happy and entertained as everyone else’s.

And honestly? There’s even pressure on me to say, “Hey, please spend your Black Friday dollars here at Are You Highly Sensitive…”

But I’m choosing to reject that pressure. I deeply believe that offering real value to sensitive people and staying aligned with my calling is what draws the right people in—those who truly benefit from this work.

At the same time, part of running a mission-driven business means that sometimes I do need to promote what I offer. And I know that highly sensitive people take their time making decisions. We process deeply. We reflect. We want to feel right about things. So yes, every now and then I’ll run a little special simply to help you get off the fence.

FINO: Feel Invited, Not Obligated—a phrase I learned at the Brave Thinking Institute that I hold close to my heart. Please carry it with you here.

A gentle invitation this weekend
Small Business Saturday is in a few days, and if you’d like to support this small business, I’d love to have you join me live on Instagram. Think of it as a mindful pause from the retail frenzy—a moment to breathe, connect, and nourish your sensitive system.

I’ll be chatting with Meena Puri, an Ayurvedic doctor, about living a well-lived life, avoiding burnout, tending to sensitivity, and why retreat and recovery matter so much.

Alane Freund & Meena Puri
A Life Well-Lived — IG Live
Saturday, Nov. 29th
9am PST | Noon EST

I hope to see you there—but remember… FINO always.
With warmth,
Alane

PS
AYHS Members Only - Your most recent recording of Office Hours is posted. A few great questions as well as an orientation to our new Gratitude Workbook are included.

Alane Freund, MS, MA
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (Lic. #LMFT36077)
International Consultant on High Sensitivity
P 415-203-6600 E alane@areyouhighlysensitive.com

Hi! I'm Alane Freund.

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