Borrowing Goals And Goal Comparisons - Why This Hurts In The Long Run

Do you ever find yourself replaying the same thought over and over, wondering if others wrestle with it too? Our latest episode of the Truth About Dyslexia dives into that exact question. Instead of keeping these musings to myself, I felt it was time to voice them, in case you're feeling something similar.

This episode touches on being aware of sometimes-hidden patterns in our behaviour and how that realisation can free us to make better choices. We also talk about what it looks like to share that inner dialogue with other people, because often that single step helps put things into perspective.

What Triggered These Thoughts

It's funny how a simple spark in your day can inspire deep reflection. For me, a tiny, random comment from a friend set my mind racing. I started asking myself how often I've held onto a concern but never voiced it, and whether others do the same.

When you've got a dyslexic or ADHD way of thinking, thoughts have a habit of bouncing around at all hours. It can feel like you live in a loop of ideas that don't always follow a neat pattern. Instead of ignoring them, it might help to share them with someone who can offer a fresh angle.

"I realised that I'd been keeping it all tucked away, more out of habit than anything else."

Why Voicing Your Internal Monologue Matters

We stress ourselves out by trying to solve life's questions all alone. If there's anything I've learnt, it's that talking about our jumbled thoughts can help clear the mental fog. When we reach out, we often find people who either share the same struggle or can guide us toward a gentler approach.

That quick chat might feel a bit awkward at first, but letting someone in can lighten the load. We usually discover we're not alone, and just knowing that can offer comfort. It also helps us see the patterns and habits that show up in our thinking style, which is vital when dealing with dyslexia and ADHD.

Remember, small, open conversations can become gateways to healing or personal growth. Sometimes it's as straightforward as saying, “Hey, do you feel like this too?”

The Power of Connection

We're hardwired for community, even if we’re natural introverts. Connection doesn't need to be a giant social gathering; it can happen one-on-one over a cup of tea. The trick is to find your person or group where you feel safe enough to be honest.

Why does this matter so much? Because isolation fuels overthinking. When we keep concerns or fears to ourselves, they tend to grow. Sharing them pulls the plug on that nasty cycle and reminds us that people care.

• Open up about your worries, however small they seem.
• Ask a close friend, “Do you ever feel this way?”
• Notice the relief you feel afterwards — a good sign you're on the right track.

It's not always easy, but it's worth the effort. That text you send could be the first step in unravelling a big ball of stress.

Building Self-Awareness

It's tough to spot certain thoughts when they're swirling around in your head. Building self-awareness often starts by taking a small step back. You might try journalling or recording a voice note on your phone. Hearing your own words can give you a brand-new perspective.

Look out for recurring phrases or ideas. They might be clues pointing you toward something that needs attention, like self-doubt or a fear of rejection. Awareness helps you identify potential patterns — once you see them, you can bring them up to someone you trust.

1. Give yourself permission to pause when the same thought loops in your mind.
2. Write it down or speak it into a recording app.
3. Review it later and see if there's a theme emerging.

We often don't recognise how self-critical or anxious we've become until we see it spelled out or hear it aloud.

Deciding When to Share

Not every thought needs to be voiced, but it's helpful to figure out which ones do. If a feeling or idea just won't leave you alone, it might be time to speak up. Sharing can be simple. You don't need to craft a perfect speech, just drop a friend a note saying, “I'm thinking about something. Can we chat?”

Pay attention to how your body feels. If you notice that knot in your stomach gets tighter whenever you revisit the thought, that's a clue it's weighing on you. The relief after talking often tells you whether you made the right move.

Finding balance is key, and sometimes a bit of trial and error is all it takes. Over time, you'll get a feel for which thoughts are mere passing sparks and which ones need a conversation.

• Trust your instincts on when to speak up.
• Notice if a concern repeatedly pops into your day.
• Test small interactions to see if sharing brings relief.

Key Takeaways

• You're not alone in your looping thoughts, and sharing can help break that cycle.
• Ask for a fresh perspective if you're stuck in a pattern. It might surprise you.
• Embrace the power of connection, even if it feels vulnerable at first.
• Self-awareness starts with paying attention to your own words or feelings.
• Decide which thoughts are worth voicing, and trust that you'll want to share when it's right.

Ready to keep this chat going? Listen to the full episode using the player at the top of the page. You'll hear more on how small decisions to speak up can transform our daily lives. Give it a go and see if it makes a difference in yours.