Are You an Indigo Child? Here’s How to Know for Sure
Some people seem born with a deeper sense of purpose, an unshakable intuition, and a feeling that they don’t quite “fit in.” If this resonates with you, you might be what’s known as an Indigo Child.
Let’s explore what that means and how to tell if you might be one.
What Exactly Is an Indigo Child?
An Indigo Child is someone believed to be born with heightened spiritual awareness, strong intuition, and sometimes even psychic gifts. They often feel different—sometimes misunderstood—but they carry a sense that they are here for a bigger reason.
The concept of Indigo Children was first introduced by Nancy Ann Tappe, a parapsychologist and synesthete, in her 1979 book Understand Your Life Through Color. She noticed a new group of children with indigo-colored auras and unique psychological and spiritual traits. The idea gained popularity in the mid-1990s thanks to authors Lee Carroll and Jan Tober.
Since the 1970s and 1980s, more and more people have been identified—or self-identified—as Indigo Children. Some even refer to them as Rainbow Children or Starseeds, because of their deep sensitivity and emotional intelligence.
Why Indigo Children Stand Out
Indigo Children often challenge authority, question outdated systems, and refuse to “just follow the rules.” While this can make them seem rebellious, it actually speaks to a deep inner moral compass.
They often struggle in traditional environments, like rigid schools or authoritarian workplaces, but thrive in spaces that value creativity, empathy, and authenticity.
Common Traits of Indigo Children
Wondering if you or your child might be an Indigo? Here are some of the most common characteristics:
1. A Natural Disregard for Unfair Authority
Indigo Children won’t blindly follow rules—especially if those rules seem unjust or pointless. They want to know why and who benefits.
2. Deep Empathy and Sensitivity
They can feel what others feel, sometimes intensely. This emotional sensitivity makes them natural empaths but also means they may need more emotional support.
3. Intuition That Can’t Be Explained
Many Indigo Children have a “sixth sense.” They can sense lies, read between the lines, and even feel what others are thinking or feeling without a word being said.
4. Preference for Solitude
Indigos often enjoy being alone. Solitude helps them recharge and reconnect with their inner world.
5. Strong Moral Compass
They see the world in black and white when it comes to justice and fairness. They tend to take a stand when they see something wrong—even if no one else does.
6. Creative Thinkers
They are imaginative, artistic, and often drawn to music, writing, or innovation. Indigos rarely solve problems in conventional ways—they find solutions others miss.
7. Disinterest in Conformity
They’re not trying to be different—they are different. Standing out is just a side effect of being true to themselves.
8. Born With a Sense of Mission
Many Indigo Children feel like they are here for a reason. They want to change the world and often gravitate toward causes that uplift humanity.
9. Connection to Nature and Crystals
Even as kids, they may be drawn to crystals, animals, or natural environments. These elements help them stay grounded and connected to their inner selves.
10. Trouble Fitting Into Traditional Systems
Whether it’s school, religion, or the workplace, Indigo Children often feel stifled by rigid expectations. They thrive in environments that let them be their full, expressive selves.
Indigo Adults: It’s Not Just for Kids
While the term originally referred to children, many adults today recognize these traits in themselves. Maybe you’ve always been the “old soul” in the room, or people said you were wise beyond your years.
If you’ve always felt a calling to something greater, struggled to conform, or had uncanny intuition, it’s possible you’re an Indigo grown-up.
Final Thoughts: Embracing the Indigo Within
Being an Indigo Child isn’t about being “better” than others—it’s about understanding your unique wiring and honoring the gifts that come with it. The world needs more empathy, intuition, and non-conformist thinkers now more than ever.
So if you’ve felt out of place, overly sensitive, or spiritually in tune—maybe you’re not lost. Maybe you’re just Indigo.