Dyslexia In Adults

Ever wondered why everyday tasks can feel so different when you think in pictures, patterns or big ideas? Dyslexia doesn’t stop in childhood—it can influence how adults navigate relationships and the workplace, often in ways that aren’t obvious at first. In our latest podcast episode, we explore these subtle signs of dyslexia in grown-up life and why understanding them is so valuable.

Many adults with dyslexia have developed strategies to handle reading and writing, yet find other areas more challenging. We talk about what’s happening behind the scenes, how our dyslexic minds process information, and why it matters when we’re connecting with people or working in a busy office. If you’ve been curious about the adult experience of dyslexia, you’ll find both comfort and practical pointers in this discussion.

The Emotional Side of Dyslexia

Dyslexia doesn’t only affect how you read or spell. It can also shape your emotions and self-esteem. Feeling misunderstood or judged at a young age can carry into adulthood, often showing up as self-doubt or anxiety.

It’s not all bad news, though. Dyslexia can fuel creativity, empathy and resilience. You might find that you pick up on people’s emotions quicker or come up with unexpected solutions. When you embrace these gifts, your confidence grows and you see just how wide your potential really is.

• Recognise emotional triggers and give yourself room to breathe.
• Celebrate your progress, even if it feels small.
• Talk with trusted friends or mentors who understand the dyslexic mind.

Impact on Relationships

Communication is at the heart of any good relationship, romantic or otherwise. Dyslexia can affect how you process words in the moment, leading to mix-ups that may cause tension. But it can also open up new ways of connecting by focusing on empathy and honest expression.

If your partner knows you sometimes need a little extra time to find the right word or keep track of conversations, it can reduce conflict. Being upfront about your dyslexia can help others see there’s nothing ‘wrong’ with you—your brain just makes sense of information in a different way.

One of the most helpful tips from the episode is to share your unique strengths. You might be amazing at big-picture thinking or problem-solving. Highlighting these talents can give both you and your loved ones a clearer sense of how to support each other.

• Set clear expectations early in a relationship.
• Stay patient with repetitive questions or clarifications.
• Use humour to diffuse tension when words get tangled.

Managing Dyslexia at Work

Workplace environments can be stressful when you’re constantly reading emails, juggling memos or prepping presentations. Dyslexia adds another layer, because it’s easy to doubt your ability to keep pace with colleagues. The truth is, many dyslexic adults thrive in business once they learn to use their strengths.

You might find that you’re particularly strong at seeing patterns or solving operational problems. That’s a huge benefit to any organisation. Let your manager or team know that you process tasks differently and might need a bit more time to review written material, but also offer your fresh perspective.

In the episode, we talk about ways to navigate this balance. From fast organisation hacks to focusing on verbal communication whenever possible, there are lots of strategies to cope. Here’s what we’ve seen work:

• Create a mind map instead of bullet points.
• Use text-to-speech software to handle large documents.
• Ask for audio resources in meetings or training sessions.

“It’s amazing how dyslexia affects day-to-day life as an adult—from reading emails to organising schedules—but it also opens doors we wouldn’t have otherwise.”

Common Challenges

Dyslexia in adults is a big topic, find out more here, but the podcast covers some recurring themes. Spelling and grammar issues might still pop up. Processing written instructions can feel overwhelming, especially under time pressure. Maps, schedules and time management might also be tricky, leading to frustration or embarrassment.

If you’re in a leadership role, you may second-guess your communication style. It’s normal to worry about how your team perceives you. But remember, dyslexia often pairs with strong interpersonal skills. Many dyslexic leaders gain loyal followers because they connect in an authentic way.

Consistency is key. Stick to the tools and methods you know work best. Practice them daily. When you mix your creative flare with a structured approach, you build the confidence to push through challenges.

Building on Strengths

Adults with dyslexia often excel in areas that aren’t strictly textbook-based. Artistic ventures, hands-on projects and entrepreneurial pursuits come naturally to many dyslexic minds. If you’re the type who loves to innovate, turning your passions into professional or personal wins can be life-changing.

The podcast highlights the importance of recognising the big picture rather than staying bogged down in small details. A sense of humour also goes a long way. Laughter can defuse tension and remind you that no one is perfect at everything. By leaning into what you do well, you’ll see progress faster than you think.

• Identify tasks that spark your creative thinking.
• Build a network of people who celebrate your wins.
• Use technology to support, not to hide your abilities.
• Practice mindful habits to reduce stress and boost clarity.

Key Takeaways to Remember:

• Understanding your own emotions is vital—use your dyslexia as a strength.
• Communication can improve when you share your needs openly.
• Workplace success often starts with creative thinking and collaboration.
• Staying organised is possible with the right tools and habits.
• Focus on what you do brilliantly and share it with the world.

If you want even more insights, including personal stories and tips, we dive deeper in the full podcast episode. The player is at the top of this page if you’re ready to listen. Join us and discover how we can embrace every side of adult dyslexia together.