2019 Visual Goals

Ever feel like goals slip through your fingers just when you think you’ve got them? You’re not alone. In this recent podcast episode, we explore how dyslexics can set themselves up for success when making plans for a new year.

We dive into why so many traditional templates don’t sync with the dyslexic mind. We also discuss practical tips for creating goals that are flexible, visual, and fun to aim for. If you’re looking for a fresh way to move forward, this conversation is for you.

Understanding Dyslexic Goal-Setting

Dyslexic minds thrive on big-picture thinking. We sometimes see a dazzling end result but skip a step or two in the middle. That’s why typical goal-setting methods that expect neat, linear progression can feel stifling. It might even make you give up before you start.

In the episode, we chat about how it’s important to accept this wiring. Instead of forcing yourself into a system that doesn’t fit, you can adapt your approach. If you’re always bursting with creativity, let that be your roadmap, not your roadblock.

“If the usual goal-setting tools don’t resonate with you, don’t blame yourself. It might just be time to do it your way.”

Breaking Goals into Bite-Size Pieces

When a goal seems huge, it’s easy to freeze and look in the other direction. One trick we discuss is splitting goals into small chunks. Whether you aim for managing your finances, improving a skill, or starting a new project, shrink the plan to the smallest feasible steps.

Try this approach:

• Write down your big idea in the middle of a page (or a mind map if you prefer visuals).
• Break it into milestones that aren’t too far apart and feel easy.
• Celebrate even the tiniest actions so your energy stays high.

This stops you from feeling overwhelmed. Rather than staring at a year-long mountain, you’ll focus on what needs doing today, or at most, this week. You might smile at how much more you accomplish when you make your goals less intimidating.

Getting Accountability and Support

If you’re anything like me, you’ll sometimes do more for others’ expectations than your own. This is where accountability shines. Having an accountability buddy, a coach, or even a close friend can keep you on track.

We all need a reality check once in a while. It might be a weekly call or a quick coffee catch-up. Make sure the other person understands how your mind works. They don’t need to be dyslexic themselves, but a sympathetic ear makes a world of difference. They can help you navigate doubts and keep you motivated when the excitement fades.

In the episode, we also talk about how the right community can propel you forward. Surround yourself with people who celebrate little wins and let you be genuine. Not every environment will fit, so choose carefully to avoid pushing yourself into more stress.

Tracking Progress Without Overwhelm

Traditional planners can feel like a tangled trap, filled with empty boxes that haunt you each day. Dyslexics usually work better with visually appealing tools like colour-coded sticky notes or simple apps that have space for sketches and pictures. Find something that doesn’t intimidate you each morning.

You can also get inventive. If you’re a doodler, keep a small notebook for your goals. If you’re a gadget person, record quick voice notes after you complete a step. Here are a few suggestions you could try:

• Create a vision board on your wall to remind you of your final destination.
• Use playful, coloured stickers or markers to track completed steps.
• Set a simple alarm that reminds you to do one small action daily.

It’s about finding what fits your brain, not bending your brain to fit someone else’s system. One size rarely fits all, especially with dyslexia. Experiment a bit and trust your instincts.

Takeaways

• Embrace your dyslexic thinking style, and don’t force a rigid approach.
• Keep goals small and digestible so you can make progress consistently.
• Find an accountability buddy who understands your mindset and can keep you on the right path.
• Use visual tools that encourage creativity and fun rather than overwhelm you.

When you let your natural ways guide you, setting and achieving goals can feel far more doable than you ever thought. It’s about blending who you are with how you want to grow.

Curious for more insights? The player is at the top of this page, so be sure to listen to the full episode. You’ll hear a lively chat that dives deeper into the ins and outs of creating motivating, dyslexia-friendly goals for the year ahead.