My Number 1 Tip For Communicating In Relationships

We all want better connections in our relationships, but it’s easy to get tangled when our minds work in pictures and leaps. In this episode, I share the top tip that’s transformed how I communicate. If understanding dyslexia and the way my brain processes words can help me pick better tools, it can help you too.

We’ll look into why it’s crucial to be more intentional with how you speak, what small shifts can make a difference, and how you can use these insights every day. You’ll hear about my stumbles in relationships, the lessons I’ve learned the hard way, and the one strategy that’s made all the difference.

Recognising How Dyslexia Shapes Communication

For years, I didn’t realise how much dyslexia coloured my conversations. Sometimes I’d assume people already saw the pictures in my head. Other times, my words moved faster than my thoughts. If you’re dyslexic or think in a similar way, you may have noticed that mixing up words or missing details can cause misunderstandings.

The key is to check whether the other person truly grasps what you mean. You might think you’ve been clear, yet they could interpret your message in a completely different way. Realising this early made me see the importance of pausing, clarifying, and asking more questions than I thought were necessary.

“I’m not cupid by any means. I’ve tripped through relationships, made mistakes and learned lots over the years, but as I understand dyslexia, I’m choosing the right tools and making better conscious decisions in how I communicate.”

Focusing on Clarity Before Speed

So often, I focused on getting my point across quickly. I’d throw verbal paint at the wall, hoping it made a coherent picture. That didn’t always work. I needed to slow down, think about what someone else was hearing, and confirm they were on the same page.

If you do this, it may seem strange at first. You might wonder if you’re going overboard. In my experience, I’ve found that slowing down guarantees everything is understood. It doesn’t mean turning your chat into a lecture. A tiny check-in, like, “Does that make sense?” or “What’s your view on that?” can make a massive difference.

Having a Go-To Tool for Communication

My favourite tool is to simply restate what I heard in my own words, then wait for feedback. I’ll say something like, “So, you’re looking for me to do X, Y, and Z, right?” They’ll either nod or correct me. It reduces confusion for both of us.

Try to notice moments when you’re responding too fast, or you’re sending an important text without reading it back. Those are prime opportunities to insert a pause or add a clarifying question. It may feel like an extra step, but I promise, it saves you from future frustration.

Making This Tip Your Own

You don’t have to be a communication expert. Just start small. Pick one conversation today and practise checking in. Before the talk ends, ask, “So here’s what I got from you…” and see what they say. If you do it in a relaxed, friendly way, people usually appreciate the effort.

It’s also wise to remember that everyone has their own communication style. Dyslexia or not, nobody sees the world exactly the same way you do. Taking a second to confirm you’re aligned helps build more authentic connections. And when you do slip up, which I still do, it’s easier to spot and adjust.

• Pause before hitting send or speaking.
• Ask if they’ve understood or repeat back what you heard.
• Don’t be afraid of a bit of silence—it allows others to process too.
• Experiment with this tip in low-stakes conversations, like organising plans with friends, to build your confidence.

Play with it, see how it feels, and tweak it to fit your style. It’s about making communication smoother and less stressful, especially if your mind hops around a bit like mine does.

Key Takeaways

• Dyslexia can affect how you interpret and deliver messages.
• Slowing down and clarifying intent reduces misunderstanding.
• Restating what you’ve heard helps you and the other person feel clear.
• Everyone has a different perspective—it’s worth making sure you match up.

Ready to go deeper? Give the full episode a listen using the audio player at the top of this page. Grab your cuppa, hit play, and try these conversation tips in real life.