6 Everyday Traits That Might Indicate You’re Not Just ‘Spiritual’ – You’re A Lightworker

Now more than ever is an important time to spread the word about what being a “lightworker” is. Whether or not you’re a spiritual person with interest in the metaphysical, understanding the concept of a lightworker is relevant to everyone in a time of tragedy, political chaos, greed, and hate.

Lightworkers come in many different forms. Reiki healers, doctors, political leaders, writers, and teachers- these are just a few examples of different lightworkers. Not all “lightworkers” are conscious of their calling, and while each person may be very different, they each have a special similarity: a strong desire to help others and bring light to the world.

Peacemakers, community voices, activists- from the Women’s March to writing letters to Senate, these are all acts of a lightworker as well. In a world with so much turmoil, this important work and effort by the lightworkers are imperative to heal society.

Do you think you may be a lightworker? Here are 10 common traits I personally relate to, and perhaps you will, too.

1. Sensitivity

Lightworkers are most often empathetic people. This sensitivity comes in many forms- it can be emotional, physical, and spiritual. I’ve always taken things personally, been sensitive to certain fabrics, sounds, and foods, and felt the emotions of others very strongly. There are benefits to being sensitive, though- being an empath helps me relate to others, will give me strange vibes if I’m in a bad place or with a toxic person, and stimulates my creativity. There’s nothing wrong with being empathetic- own this gift!

2. Spiritual but not religious

I never understood church. It seemed to be more of a social group or something I “had” to do than something I felt called to. I don’t care to involve myself with organizations where money is involved, either- I would rather have my offering go toward feeding or clothing the poor than build a new dining hall or alter (do you watch Easy? SO good). However, I’ve always had a strong connection with a higher power- whether it was a presence I felt with me, channeling messages from my Grandparents, or making decisions based on signs and synchronicity. Spirituality makes a whole lot more sense to me then logic and planning- it’s all about going with the Universe’s flow.

3. Black sheep or an old soul

These go hand-in-hand- and I’m both. I always felt different from my family, classmates, and peers. I got along better with my teachers than the other students at as young as 7 years old- I was always a little snarky and had the sense of humor of a much older person. It wasn’t until I left Michigan in 2008 and moved to San Francisco when I finally started to learn who I was. I was always a little insecure about being different, but moving away and experiencing a different part of the country was an eye-opening experience that helped me learn to love who I was. It also triggered the start of my spiritual awakening process.

4.  A close connection to animals and nature

Whenever I feel upset, depressed, or anxious, all I need to do is go to the water. It could be the ocean, a river, lake, or even a fountain- there is something about the water I am deeply connected to. It helps me every time. I feel I can connect with my spirit guides and angels when I am at peace by a serene shore, too. Before winter, I went down to the Mystic River every single morning with my coffee, watching the ducks and swans, enjoying the breeze, and watching the colors changed over the autumn months. Connecting with animals and nature is a huge part of my life, whether it’s a squirrel running by or Clarissa the calico cat.

5. Psychic Sense

I just know some things. It’s always been strange. That gut feeling, those dreams, my own intuition- it truly never fails me. Prior to moving to Boston I just knew this was where I had to go. I had ideas in my head about where I wanted to live, what I wanted to do, what type of friends I wanted to have. All of those things have honestly come true. Yes, everything has worked out beautifully with my move to Boston, but it wasn’t without some struggles. Struggles bring strength, remember?

6.  Fearlessness and impulsivity

Piggybacking off of a psychic sense, fearlessness is a trait of a lightworker, too. I think it’s because of their call to help others, psychic sense, and a knowing that the Universe is looking out for them. I know the Universe is looking out for me. I’ve quit jobs and moved across the country on a few different occasions, have packed up and jetted off with boyfriends, and have left those boyfriends just as fast. Sure, I’ve been in a lot of situations where I didn’t think much beforehand, but I knew it was the thing to do. I vividly remember being on the phone with my friend Brett as I was packing up my things to leave a boyfriend who was at work at the time. “Should I do it?” I asked. 15 hours later, my Dad was down in Charlotte, North Carolina, saving me from an abusive relationship, exhausted from the drive but happy to help me.

I’m a pretty lucky girl.

There’s something about the lightworker that is sensitive yet bold, fearless yet fragile, which makes us a dominant force to be reckoned with. Plain and simple- we don’t put up with anyone’s shit. We feel, and we love hard, but it isn’t without a fight. We will work to do what is right to help others, spread light, and do our part to make the world a better place.

Whether you love a lightworker or are one yourself, just know our hearts are in the right place- and we’re doing what we can to help heal those around us.