Comparison, Anxiety And Dyslexia

Dyslexia can feel like a swirling mix of big emotions and constant self-testing. We wonder if we're keeping pace at work or in our friendships. At times, that comparison monster can pop out and leave us reeling with self-doubt.

In this episode, we explore why so many dyslexics wrestle with comparison. We also look at how it can drain our energy and confidence. If you've felt the sting of feeling “less than” when you measure yourself against others, you’re not alone. This chat shines a light on practical ways to break out of that painful loop.

The Trap of Trying to “Keep Up”

Many of us with dyslexia know the pressure to match someone else’s pace. It might be a co-worker who seems to pick up new information at lightning speed or a friend who finishes tasks without blinking. This can make us feel like we’re five steps behind before we even start.

Why is this so common? Our brains are wired differently. We don’t always process the world in the same way as everyone else. Sometimes that’s amazing because we see creative connections and come up with ideas others miss. Other times it feels frustrating, especially when we try to fit a standard that doesn’t honour how we think.

The comparison trap can steal joy by shifting our focus from our strengths to our perceived flaws. We end up using someone else's successes as the yardstick for our own worth.

When Comparison Sparks Growth

Comparison isn’t always the villain. There's a time and place where it might help push you to grow. If you see someone doing something you’d love to do, it can inspire you to try new things. Rather than sinking into guilt, you might see it as a friendly nudge.

Some of us work better with a peer or coach who helps us set doable goals. When done wisely, short check-ins can keep you on track without making you feel like you’re failing. Instead of criticising yourself, you can use gentle comparison as a motivator to navigate your tasks with more purpose.

It’s not about becoming the same as someone else. It’s about recognising what’s possible and adapting it to fit your own style. With practice, the upward lift from healthy comparison can fuel progress without spinning us into a negative spiral.

Why Comparison Can Sting More for Dyslexics

Compared to a neurotypical brain, the dyslexic mind can face extra hurdles when juggling tasks. We might need more time to process certain details, read that oversized report, or recall facts we just learned. It’s not a fault, it’s just part of how our minds work.

When we compare ourselves with someone who seems to accomplish a similar task in half the time, that’s when the “cocktail of pain” really kicks in. In the episode, I shared:

“What a cocktail of pain that is! It's like we set out to do something we believe in, then negativity barges in before we even get halfway.”

That push and pull can lead to a constant feeling of “not good enough.” The trouble is that we rarely see the hidden struggles others carry. We only see their wins. Then we push ourselves into a corner, focusing on our hardest bits without noticing our own hard-earned victories.

Releasing the Need to Compare

It might seem impossible to squash those sneaky thoughts, yet there are ways to shift your perspective. One simple step is to catch yourself when you start comparing. Ask: “Am I doing this to belittle myself, or am I looking for fresh ideas?” That quick question can bring you back to your strengths.

Another approach is to share your experiences openly with someone you trust. When you articulate what's going on, the gloomy fog can lift. Dyslexics often flourish in supportive groups that celebrate diverse thinking. Sometimes it takes a kind word to remind you that you do have unique gifts.

If you’re struggling with big tasks, breaking them down can help you see how far you’ve come, rather than focusing on how far you have to go. Small steps can add up in brilliant ways.

Putting Comparison in Perspective

We all measure ourselves sometimes, especially in a world that praises quick wins and big achievements. That doesn’t mean it has to rule your life. You can pick when and how you compare, so it becomes a tool instead of a weapon.

Keeping track of your own wins is a nice way to notice your progress. Even simple things like finishing a chapter in a book or solving a puzzle can remind you how capable you are. It might seem too small to celebrate, but these little milestones add up to big change over time.

It’s not about ignoring your challenges. It’s about shifting your attention to what’s working, where you’ve grown, and where you can grow more. When comparison is rooted in learning, not judgement, it can become a skill you can lean on.

Key Takeaways

• Use comparison gently, like a guide for growth, rather than fuel for insecurity.
• Look for support from friends or workplaces that appreciate diverse thinkers.
• Set your own metrics of success by breaking down big tasks into small milestones.
• Celebrate the progress you make and note the steps you’ve taken, even if they're tiny.

If you’d like more insight into handling that tricky mix of dyslexia and comparison, tune into the Truth About Dyslexia podcast. The player is right at the top of this page. Give it a listen and discover more tips, stories, and tools that can help you on your journey.