Confident Vs Indecisive

Have you ever woken up feeling unstoppable, then struggled to choose what to have for dinner the very next day? This episode of The Truth About Dyslexia takes a look at that whirlwind of confidence highs and lows. We explore how self-belief can crumble when you least expect it, and what it means for dyslexics who often feel like they’re faking it.

The episode highlights why these confidence swings aren’t just “in your head” and offers practical ways to manage them. We also share a personal story that many dyslexics will relate to—finding yourself rock-solid one moment, then doubting every decision the next.

Understanding the Confidence Rollercoaster

Many of us show up one day with fresh energy. We lead meetings at work, navigate new tasks, and feel like we can tackle anything. Then, almost out of the blue, that confidence can vanish. Suddenly, something small—like choosing what to have for dinner—feels impossible.

These dips aren’t proof you’re not a confident person at heart. Dyslexia can make it harder to hold onto momentum when you encounter shifts or curveballs. It’s like your brain needs a bit more time to catch up, especially when you’ve been juggling different tasks.

Why Dyslexia Makes Things Tricky

Dyslexia involves a unique way of processing information. Your brain takes a less direct route, which can result in bursts of creativity and insight, but it also can lead to second-guessing and mental fatigue. When that fatigue hits, confidence tends to wobble.

People often see dyslexia as just a reading or spelling difference. In reality, it can affect decision-making or confidence. If you’ve ever felt torn between “I’ve got this” and “I haven’t a clue,” dyslexia might be behind the mental tug-of-war. It doesn’t mean you’re unskilled—it just means you’re wired differently.

“Confidence can feel like a rollercoaster ride when you live with dyslexia. One day, you’re unstoppable. The next, you doubt everything.”

A Story You Might Recognise

Picture this: you’re at work, solving a difficult challenge by noon, feeling competent and ready to share your ideas. Later, you’re standing in front of the fridge, trying to decide on dinner and suddenly you freeze. No plan, no idea, and a strange sense of failure creeps in.

I’ve had my share of those moments too. It can feel absurd. How can someone who managed five different tasks a few hours ago feel clueless now? Our brains often switch into a different mode at the end of the day. When we come off a high of “I can do anything,” we may need time to realign. Dyslexia loves to remind us that we work in bursts, and that’s normal.

Ways to Ease the Ups and Downs

Nobody wants to live on a rollercoaster. Learning to smooth out those shaky moments is crucial. Here are a few approaches:

• Plan Simple Choices: When your energy dips, even choosing dinner can feel hard. Try deciding on meals in advance so you waste less mental energy.
• Keep a Confidence Journal: Note down wins from your day. It’s easy to forget the good stuff when you hit a low. Seeing a list of successes can help.
• Use Mindful Breaks: Check in with yourself before you reach meltdown territory. A short walk or a few deep breaths might reset your brain.
• Talk It Out: Dyslexics often carry anxieties alone. Sharing with someone who understands can ease the burden.

Picking Yourself Up When Confidence Crashes

Sometimes it’s enough to know this pattern is normal. You’re not alone, and you’re not doing life wrong. When you see confidence as fluid rather than fixed, you give yourself space to bounce back. Remind your brain that being a bit stuck doesn’t wipe out all your strengths.

You can also experiment with self-talk. Phrases like “I’m figuring this out” or “I can ask for help if I need it” help shift you from doubt to action. Even noticing the shift can be enough to break its hold on you.

• Recognise the signs of an oncoming confidence dip.
• Give yourself a buffer before decisions to avoid rushed panic.
• Celebrate small wins to bolster self-belief for the next challenge.

Takeaways to Remember:

• Dyslexic minds can feel bold one moment and unsure the next.
• It’s not “faking it”—your thinking style just works in bursts.
• Small strategies like planning, journalling, and talking to someone can make a big difference.
• Confidence isn’t an all-or-nothing trait. It ebbs, flows, and can be rebuilt.

If you’d like the full story and more tips on navigating life with dyslexia, be sure to listen to the complete episode. The podcast player is right at the top of the page—hit play and let’s explore these ups and downs together.