Dyslexic But Not Creative? What If That’s A Lie?

Have you ever received a piece of news that made you see your entire life differently? That’s what it can feel like to be diagnosed with dyslexia later in life. Suddenly, experiences you once brushed off as quirks or personal shortcomings gain a whole new meaning.

In this episode, Stephen Martin opens up about the emotional impact of a late dyslexia diagnosis and how it can stir feelings of grief and loss. He also redefines creativity. He suggests it isn’t always a loud artistic talent—sometimes it’s a subtle knack for problem-solving or supporting others. Finally, he shares his personal journey of launching RightSiders, a new supplement brand designed to tackle common sleep challenges faced by dyslexics.

The Emotional Rollercoaster of a Late Diagnosis

Finding out you’re dyslexic after years of self-doubt can feel like someone rewrote your autobiography. Old memories suddenly look different, and you might wonder how things would have turned out if you’d only known sooner.

Some experience unexpected grief for the past, while others feel relief. It depends on your personal journey. Stephen recalls how many adults say, “I wish I’d known this years ago, because it explains so much.”

"One of the hardest things is realising your strengths were always seen as weaknesses, simply because no one helped you recognise them."

This heavy mix of regret and hope can leave you spinning. You may need to give yourself permission to grieve, talk it through, and then decide what you’ll do with this fresh knowledge.

Quiet Creativity and Its Hidden Power

When people think of creativity, they often imagine vivid art or flamboyant performances. But Stephen points out there’s another form of creativity that’s less noisy and more about resourceful thinking.

If you’ve spent years feeling “less than,” you may not realise you’re using creative coping skills every day. Helping a coworker fix an issue, rearranging a busy schedule, or offering unexpected solutions—these are quiet forms of creativity.

Innovation isn’t only about grand inventions or painting murals. It’s about pulling bits of knowledge together in new ways, whether you’re an artist or a numbers person.

Seeking Validation and Reconnecting with Confidence

Dyslexia can chip away at your confidence, especially if you spent your younger years being told you weren’t trying hard enough or that you were lazy. Stephen suggests leaning on external validation to reactivate your hidden talents.

You might start by sharing small wins with friends or family. Ask for their honest feedback. Sometimes, hearing someone say “I see how clever and resourceful you are” can unlock the creative spark you thought you lost.

Remember, we don’t all express creativity in the same way, so comparing yourself to others can be damaging. Instead, focus on what makes you feel energised—maybe it’s problem-solving, writing, or quietly supporting those around you.

Looking Ahead: A New Venture in Sleep Support

A late dyslexia diagnosis often comes paired with other challenges like ADHD or anxiety. Sleep problems are also common, and Stephen addresses that head-on with his new supplement brand, RightSiders.

It’s a project born from personal experience. By tackling sleep issues in a simple, practical way, he hopes to make life easier for the countless adults juggling dyslexia, work, and everyday responsibilities. If this resonates with you, consider following his journey—because who doesn’t want a good night’s rest?

• Discovering dyslexia later in life can rewrite your personal history.
• Creativity isn’t always loud; problem-solving can be just as creative.
• Negative feedback over the years can bury your true talents.
• Feeling more confident can start by getting honest validation from others.
• Team up with others who understand dyslexia—they can help you grow.

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Curious to learn more? The podcast player is right at the top of the page so you can dive into the full conversation. Listen to the full episode, hear Stephen’s story, and discover practical insights that can help you reclaim your own creative spark.