Dyslexics Are Great At Focussing

Have you ever felt your focus switch on like a superpower, then suddenly snap off? That’s how it can feel for many of us with dyslexia. This episode shines a light on why we excel at focusing in bursts, and what we can do to manage our attention during everyday activities.

We explored how dyslexic minds harness intense concentration in short spurts, and why that focus can fade once our curiosity is satisfied. Knowing when to tap into hyper-focus, and when to step back, can help us stay on track without burning out. Let’s take a closer look at the highlights from the podcast, then dive deeper into a few key strategies for working with (rather than against) our dyslexic strengths.

What Makes Dyslexics So Good at Focus

Many of us with dyslexia find we can zone in on tasks that catch our interest. It feels like a superpower. We can devote all our mind-space to a project, goal or puzzle until we achieve what we want.

In the podcast, we learned that this kind of hyper-focus isn’t random. Our brains crave novelty and purpose. Once we see value in a task, nothing can stand in our way. It turns out that dopamine plays a key role here, sparking a surge of attention whenever we’re excited or curious.

For some, this trait can be an asset if we set up our environment to play to our strengths. But it can also become an obstacle if we lose interest mid-task. Finding the right triggers is part of unlocking the power of dyslexic focus.

“Dyslexics can lock onto a task so deeply we forget the world around us. That’s our edge in so many projects.”

Embracing the Mind’s Natural Rhythms

Think about the last time you got stuck in a cycle of procrastination. You might have known what you needed to do, but your brain just refused to get started. Then suddenly, a spark of interest arrived and you shifted out of neutral. Our minds naturally oscillate between rest mode and high engagement.

In the episode, we touched on the power of recognising these rhythms. When you feel alert and motivated, that’s your window to tackle the tasks that need maximum focus. If you try to force concentration outside your natural cycle, you’ll likely struggle or get irritated.

Allowing these dips and surges of energy to guide you can help you stay motivated. You might finish a challenging task in half the usual time by listening to your body’s signals. This approach works well if you’re able to arrange flexible work or study schedules that fit your ups and downs.

Practical Tips for Better Focus

Some of us need cues or prompts to stay on target. Others need brief breaks to avoid getting overwhelmed. The podcast shared simple strategies for making the most of dyslexic focus throughout the day:

• Use short timers: Many podcasts and experts suggest 20-minute blocks. Setting a stopwatch can help us stay in the zone without drifting.
• Prioritise novelty: If a task feels stale, find a fresh angle. Ask yourself what’s interesting or unique about it. Your brain loves intriguing details.
• Organise your environment: Keep clutter away. Having too many things on your desk can dilute your focus. One or two inspiring visuals might be all you need.
• Celebrate small wins: Completing each tiny milestone reignites your sense of progress and purpose.

Experiment to see what resonates with you. Adding small rituals before starting a task can trigger your focus mode. You might grab a cup of tea or listen to a favourite upbeat tune. Gradually you’ll find your mind starts to associate these rituals with “go time.”

Key Takeaways

To help you remember the high points, here’s a quick list of things to keep in mind:

• Our minds can switch from zero to hero in an instant, especially when we’re excited.
• Recognise your natural cycles of energy and rest. Work with them, not against them.
• Plan for short bursts of intense focus and welcome breaks to recharge.
• Little celebrations along the way build momentum and maintain motivation.

Focusing is easier when you harness your curiosity. Taking note of what piques your interest can transform a dreaded task into something intriguing. The more you align your tasks with what genuinely sparks you, the better your focus becomes.

If you’ve ever wondered why you can get so absorbed in one moment, then completely distracted in the next, don’t worry. It’s part of how dyslexic minds learn and create. By embracing that unique wiring, you can tilt your habits towards success, whether you’re working on a complex project or just sorting out daily errands.

• Explore tasks that feed your curiosity.
• Use simple structures, like short timers or ritual habits.
• Let your energy guide you and don’t punish yourself for natural dips.

Curious to hear more and let these insights sink in deeper? The full episode awaits with plenty of personal stories, practical advice and a friendly conversation that’ll make you feel right at home.

Give it a listen at the top of this page, and let me know how you’re applying these tips in your life. Your focus could transform in ways you never thought possible.