7 Things To Reduce The Challenges Of Dyslexia

Ever wonder why everyday tasks can feel extra tricky when you’re managing dyslexia? In this week’s episode, Stephen Martin breaks down seven practical steps that help cut down on brain fog, stress, and time crunches. He also shares how focusing on basics—like eating and sleeping well—can make life a lot more manageable.

From emotional ups and downs to staying motivated, Stephen shines a light on what really keeps dyslexic minds ticking. If you’ve ever struggled with focus or felt weighed down by self-doubt, these insights could be just what you need.

Exploring Emotional Spikes

One of the biggest issues dyslexics face is a tendency to have sudden emotional highs and lows. These spikes can set the tone for the entire day. Maybe an unexpected email sends us into a spin, or a busy schedule leaves us feeling overwhelmed. It’s not unusual to experience this rollercoaster of emotions.

“We all have emotional spikes—especially those of us with dyslexia—and they can affect how we show up each day.” — Stephen Martin

Recognising this pattern is half the battle. A few deep breaths or a quick pause can help you step back and see things more objectively. Stephen encourages celebrating the high points, but not letting low moods spiral out of control.

The Power of Sleep and Nutrition

We often push sleep to the bottom of the to-do list. Yet good rest is essential for mental clarity and better self-control. Without it, dyslexia’s challenges can feel magnified. Studies suggest our brains clear out toxins while we snooze, so skipping sleep can leave us groggy and less capable.

Nutrition also plays a starring role. Simple food choices, like cutting back on sugary snacks, can boost concentration. Stephen highlights how balanced meals lead to steadier energy through the day. It doesn’t have to be gourmet—something light and nourishing at the right time can work wonders.

Shifting Perspective and Finding Flow

We’re all guilty of getting stuck in the weeds of daily life. Dyslexia can make us hyper-focus on what’s going wrong instead of spotting what’s going right. Stephen believes that shifting perspective reduces stress and frustration.

He points to “flow” or that sweet spot where time seems to disappear during tasks we enjoy. It might be painting, writing, or learning something new. You lose track of the clock because you’re fully absorbed. This state gives your brain room to recharge and boosts confidence when you snap back to reality.

Purpose, Meditation, and Focus

Many of us wonder what our deeper purpose is. Without a clear sense of why we’re doing what we do, it’s easy to drift. Stephen encourages exploring what really lights you up—whether it’s teaching, creating, or even problem-solving. That extra sense of meaning can keep you motivated through tough times.

Meditation is another powerful tool. It teaches the mind to slow down and focus on one thing at a time. For people with dyslexia, the benefit is huge. By practising gentle breathing or guided imagery, you learn to calm racing thoughts and stay present. Even a few minutes a day can help you feel more grounded.

Tackling Time Management

If you struggle with time, you’re not alone. Dyslexics often find themselves juggling tasks and missing deadlines. Stephen suggests breaking projects into chunks and setting clear, measurable goals. For example:

• Write out a simple “top three” list each morning.
• Use a timer for tasks that need tight focus.
• Plan short breaks to rest your mind.

Small steps can have a big impact. Before you know it, you’ll be ticking items off your to-do list without feeling overwhelmed.

• Emotional ups and downs can be managed with self-awareness.
• Sleep fuels mental clarity.
• Nutrition keeps your mood in check and your thoughts sharper.
• Meditation trains your mind to focus.
• Perspective and flow reduce stress and build confidence.
• Purpose boosts motivation and direction.
• Time management tools help you accomplish tasks without chaos.

Ready for more? Hit play on the episode at the top of this page to hear the full conversation. You’ll pick up extra tips and discover how you can start making small changes that lead to big shifts in your day-to-day life. If you’re looking for further support, check out truthaboutdyslexia.com or join our friendly community at facebook.com/groups/adultdyslexia. We’re all in this together.