I Feel Useless

Have you ever had one of those days when your brain feels like it's going rogue? The kind where you know what you want to do but everything in your head runs in the opposite direction? That's exactly what happened in this week's episode of the Truth About Dyslexia podcast.

We explored the uncomfortable moment when your dyslexic or ADHD mind decides it has its own plan. It can leave you feeling useless or even ashamed. In this episode, I reassure you that you're not alone in this struggle. Sometimes all it takes is a gentle perspective shift and a few practical tips to get back on track.

When Your Brain Says "Nope"

Some days, your brain just won't cooperate. It's like you're ready to work or focus on something but your mind won't jump on board. It's frustrating and can make you question your abilities.

This feeling is more common than many of us realise. Dyslexia and ADHD can generate unexpected "off" moments without warning. Our brains figure out new ways to confuse us each time, so it feels different every episode.

"I felt like my brain was on its own mission, and it wouldn't let me steer."

Understanding the "Useless" Feeling

When your mind won't play ball, it's easy to label yourself as lazy or useless. You might feel guilt stacking up because you can't do what others seem to manage so effortlessly.

This episode delves into that tricky emotional territory. We talk about why those feelings arise and how they aren't actually grounded in truth. We're not lazy or incompetent, we're just wired differently. This reminder can be enough to ease the pressure.

My Go-To Tactics

Even when everything feels upside down, a few basic steps can help. Here are some strategies I shared:

• Take a break: It seems simple, but stepping away can reset your mind so you can try again with fresh energy.
• Change your surroundings: If you're at a desk, move to the sofa or a café. A new setting can spark motivation or at least stop you from spiralling.
• Use a timer: Committing to only five or ten minutes of focused work can nudge your brain into action without overwhelming it.
• Simplify your tasks: Break things down and reward yourself after each small victory.

These don't instantly cure a rebellious mind but they do provide gentle nudges in the right direction. It's great to have a few backup methods ready for those tough days.

Staying Kind to Yourself

Above all, I talk about kindness. The more you learn to treat yourself with understanding, the better you handle those curveballs. Criticising lack of focus or hating the way your brain works doesn't help.

Instead, I invite you to pause, breathe, and remember: your worth isn't defined by a single day's productivity. Sometimes our brains need a more playful approach. Other times we just need to laugh at the randomness of it all.

• Give yourself permission to be human.
• Plan extra time for tasks that still feel easy.
• Ask for help or talk it through with a like-minded friend.

It's not about pretending everything's perfect. It's about offering yourself grace, then making the most of the moments when you can work effectively.

Here are a few takeaways I'd love you to remember:

• It's normal if your dyslexic or ADHD brain goes off track.
• You don't have to accept feelings of uselessness as facts.
• Small changes in your environment or routine can spark progress.
• Self-kindness is crucial for long-term balance.

Curious to hear the full story of how my day derailed, and how I pulled through with a bit of humour and a lot of patience? Listen to the entire episode at the top of this page and discover new ways to handle your own "rogue brain" days. I promise you'll find something that resonates. Go on, treat yourself to a bit of honest chat and practical insight.