3 Biggest Lessons Of 2022

Living with adult dyslexia can feel like both a challenge and a gift. This year, I learned that embracing my unique wiring matters more than trying to fit a traditional mould. It’s been surprisingly liberating.

In this episode of Truth About Dyslexia, I break down the big lessons that shaped my neurodiverse journey in the past 12 months. You’ll hear honest stories about what worked, what didn’t, and the aha moments that helped me rethink how I approach everyday life. My hope is to inspire you to reframe your own experiences and find fresh ways to thrive.

Embracing the Unexpected

Sometimes, progress comes wrapped in confusion. I realised that the feeling of not having everything under control can be a sign that I’m on the brink of a new discovery. When I let go of needing a perfect plan, I saw more possibilities right in front of me.

Instead of thinking “this is another chaotic day,” I learned to see it as a nudge to embrace growth. I stopped trying to force myself to do things the traditional way. That gave me more mental space to create systems that actually work for my dyslexic mind.

“It’s not a flaw, it’s just a different wiring. And this year, that truth has never felt more real.”

Shifting My Mindset

An important part of my personal progress was recognising that my thoughts and emotions shape what I do. If my mind is busy telling me I’ll never get organised, I won’t. This taught me to gently question negative self-talk and replace it with more supportive language.

I used to believe mindset changes take a lot of time. But what I found is that even a small shift—like a quick affirmation or a brief reminder—can redirect your entire day. And once you see your first win, it’s easier to keep going.

Tools That Actually Help

Apps and checklists are brilliant, but only when they fit your style. Being dyslexic, I rely more on visual and auditory elements than long blocks of text. Voice notes saved me from forgetting vital ideas when my head felt scattered!

I also discovered that simple, flexible tools matter. For instance, using colour codes or short bullet points to break down tasks helped me stay focused. If you’re feeling stuck, try exploring different apps or even basic pen-and-paper methods. Then tailor them to your needs.

Community & Connection

We’re wired in ways that can feel isolating, but we’re not alone. Learning from others who share similar stories helped me see beyond my own perspective. Talking about challenges with the people around me felt less like complaining and more like inviting them into my world.

That’s where online groups, especially our supporters on Patreon, have been invaluable. A quick chat or post about a shared struggle can remind me I’m not the only one who wrestles with these issues. It’s a way to turn isolation into shared understanding.

Treating Yourself with Compassion

Sometimes, we’re so busy pushing ourselves. We forget that we all need moments of calm to recharge. For me, that meant taking a few minutes daily to notice how I felt, physically and mentally. Things like mindfulness, short walks, or journalling provided a reset when my mind was racing.

I realised that beating myself up for every misstep only made me feel worse. In contrast, a small act of kindness—like a mental pat on the back—could lift my energy levels and keep me moving forward.

• Let go of perfection: It’s okay if things get messy.
• Notice your mindset: Swap negative self-talk with uplifting words.
• Experiment with tools: Voice notes or colour codes can work wonders.
• Lean on community: Reach out to people who understand dyslexia.
• Find balance: Rest and compassion are just as vital as hard work.

If you’re ready to dive deeper, the podcast player is at the top of the page. Give this episode a listen and hear how these lessons came together in real time. I hope it sparks ideas for your own journey.