Advice for a hypersensitive postdoc who has a hard time reading social cues and making small talk
From Hamlet:
&quot;...to take arms against a sea of troubles, and by opposing, end them.&quot;
Don't let criticism get to you.
It is common for all postdocs, and often quasi-bullying. Advice: become as independent as possible, and as sure in your own abilities and goals as possible, without social confirmation. Slowly, the hypersensitivity will fade as you realize it is contrary to what you know about yourself. I see it most in the best people, not the worst, who often aren't sensitive to this at all.
I would say it happens all the time for the wrong reasons, and is more about &quot;territory&quot; and allegiance than anything. People often highly praise those who are most under their thumb.
Everyone is hypersensitive at the beginning of every new profession and role, due to fear of mistakes, which lead to a general sense of failure throughout one's life. But anxiety is overcome by self-security, and from self-reliance. &quot;Become your own man/woman&quot;. Then you are invincible and free.