Breaking Out Of The Norm

Ever feel like your life is on an endless loop? You wake up, tackle your to-do list, then realise days or even weeks have flown by. If you’re nodding (or mentally raising your hand), you’re not alone.

This episode is all about how a simple change of scenery can do wonders for your mindset. We explore why stepping away from your routine helps reclaim your sense of purpose, especially if you’re juggling a busy life with dyslexia or other everyday challenges. Here’s a short rundown of what we cover, plus a few tips to inspire you to give yourself a much-needed break.

Why a Change of Scenery Matters

Many of us get so focused on keeping everything together that we fall into autopilot. Work and family responsibilities take the lead, and it’s easy to forget about having fun or relaxing. A shift in location, even for a day, can snap us out of that mental fog.

When you see new sights and breathe different air, you start to reconnect with yourself. Your brain gets a mini recharge, and it can shake loose a bit of extra creativity, too. It doesn’t have to be an exotic holiday — sometimes a walk at a local beach or a short trip to a friend’s place is enough to reset your thoughts.

The Power of Stepping Away

I talked about those times when our heads are buried in work or personal projects. We push ourselves to meet deadlines and keep going, but forget why we started in the first place. That’s when a break comes in handy. A guilty voice may pop up: “Shouldn’t I be working instead?” Quiet it. Those rest moments become the fuel you need to be productive again.

“It’s like we can forget why we are working so hard to hold it all together.”

That line hit me hard. We can get so caught up in the grind that we lose sight of what’s important. Taking a step back reminds you of your motivations and helps you continue your journey with fresh eyes.

Finding Your Why

Think about what lights you up. Is it the sense of accomplishment you get after a project? Or the relief you feel when your to-do list is finished? Maybe you simply want to free up mental space to focus on family or enjoy a hobby. Whatever your reason, it’s a driving force that keeps you going when life throws curveballs.

Honouring your “why” means giving yourself permission to pause and reflect. You deserve the space to clarify what you want and how you plan to get it. The more you practise this, the more you can appreciate how small breaks and fresh environments nurture your motivation.

Making Time for Essential Breaks

If you’re thinking, “That all sounds lovely, but I have no time,” trust me, I get it. Balancing responsibilities, especially if you’re #dyslexic or have other neurodiverse traits, often means you’re already working harder than you think. Yet even a short change in scenery can have surprising benefits.

Try these simple ideas if you need a quick reset:

• Go outside, even if it’s just your garden or local park.
• Try a different coffee shop for an hour of work or reading.
• Visit a friend’s place and take a short walk in their neighbourhood.
• Take a drive with no fixed destination, just to let your mind wander.

Small changes count. They make you feel alive and remind you of life outside the daily checklist.

Remember, each time you give yourself permission to breathe, you’re actually boosting your future productivity. You’ll return to your tasks with renewed clarity and a better attitude, which can save time in the long run. Sometimes stepping back is the best way to move forward.

Whether you’re aiming to thrive in your career, improve your relationships, or rediscover what your passions are, these brief breaks help you realign. And once you’re in that positive headspace, you can tackle your challenges with more energy and optimism.

Key Takeaways

• Regular breaks, however small, can reset your mood and perspective.
• A different setting often sparks fresh energy and new ideas.
• Identifying your “why” keeps you motivated and clear about your direction.
• Allowing yourself downtime isn’t selfish, it’s a vital part of managing life’s demands.

To hear the full conversation, check out the player at the top of this page. You’ll find more insights on taking breaks, changing scenery, and staying motivated with dyslexia or other neurodiverse challenges. If you’d like to learn more about boosting your journey, this link takes you to our courses. Give yourself permission to pause. You’ve earned it, and you’ll thank yourself for it tomorrow.