Lie, Lie, Lie ..... Truth

Ever felt stuck in your own head, running in circles with your thoughts? In this episode of the Truth About Dyslexia podcast, we looked at how to make that all-important shift. If you’ve been wanting to change your life, this might be the best place to begin.

We took a close look at how stepping out of your head can help if you’re feeling overwhelmed or uncertain. Our conversation focused on practical ways to unpick old habits. We explored ways to take bold steps forward without feeling like you have to do it all at once. It’s about pacing yourself, listening to what your mind and body are saying, and trusting that you can create the change you crave.

Understanding the Power of Shifting Perspectives

We sometimes believe our thoughts are absolute truth because they’re rattling around in our heads. The problem starts when we get trapped by them. In the podcast, we talked about how simply recognising that our minds can trick us is a giant leap.

When you view a challenge only from the inside, it’s easy to keep replaying it. By stepping outside, you see it more like an observer would. It’s a shift in perspective that gives you more space to test different approaches. It can feel a bit odd at first, like trying on a new set of glasses, but it’s worth giving it a go.

“Sometimes, the biggest step isn’t physical. It’s deciding to see yourself from the outside and realising you do have room to grow.” – Stephen Martin

Rewiring Self-Talk

If you’re always telling yourself you can’t do something, your brain will listen. The best way to shift this is by noticing how you talk to yourself. Think about the words you use daily. Are they helpful, or are they adding fuel to your worries?

We covered a few strategies for tweaking that inner voice:

• Catch yourself in the moment: When you notice you’re thinking “I can’t,” try flipping it to “I can learn.”
• Embrace reminders: Post sticky notes around your workspace or home with encouraging words.
• Use short, clear statements: Keep a few positive phrases handy, like “I am allowed to make mistakes.”

Small shifts in self-talk can ripple out, nudging you to try something new without automatically doubting your abilities.

Building a Step-by-Step Action Plan

During the episode, we chatted about how change is rarely one colossal leap. It’s more like a series of stepping stones. Each stone builds on the last, giving you more confidence as you go.

Here’s a simple way to approach it:

1. Identify Your Goal: Get crystal clear on what you want, even if it’s just a feeling of peace or curiosity. Don’t rush this step. Write it down or say it out loud.
2. Break It Down: Slice your goal into smaller steps or mini-challenges you can tackle one at a time.
3. Track Your Progress: Make a quick note each day or week. Add a smiley if it went well, or a question mark if you need to adjust.
4. Reward Yourself: Even a small victory, like finishing a single task, can be worth celebrating. It reminds you you’re moving forward.

We learn by doing, stumbling, and then trying again. Not every step will be neat, but that’s part of the growth process.

Surrounding Yourself with Support

Being mindful of who you keep close can make a world of difference. We often absorb other people’s energies, so it helps to be around those who bring out your best. It’s not about cutting off everyone who challenges you. It’s about having voices that remind you that you are capable of more than you think.

We also discussed how crucial it is to find a few like-minded folks who understand dyslexia and ADHD. Connecting with others can offer new insights and keep you grounded. Plus, hearing someone else say, “You’ve got this,” can be the push you need to keep going.

If you’re looking to change and take that step outside your head, remember you don’t have to do it alone. A support crew, whether in-person or online, can be invaluable. We don’t need to figure out everything by ourselves.

• Try local or virtual groups designed for neurodiverse individuals.
• Talk to close friends who genuinely listen.
• Pick a mentor, coach, or therapist who understands your journey.

It’s easier to stay motivated when someone cheers you on.

Key Takeaways

• Recognising your own thought loops is the first step to breaking them.
• Shift negative self-talk to short, positive statements you can believe in.
• Break goals into small, achievable steps, and celebrate every victory.
• Surround yourself with people who encourage and understand you.
• Remember that everyone moves at their own pace, and that’s fine.

If you’re curious about diving deeper, have a listen to the full episode at the top of this page. It’s packed with examples and personal stories that’ll help you take that first step out of your head and into real, lasting change.