Overcoming Stubborn Dyslexicness

Do you ever feel you’re digging your heels in for no good reason? Maybe friends or family hint that you’re too stubborn, and you’re not entirely sure how to handle that. This blog post is all about exploring that stubborn streak—why we do it and how we can start loosening up when it’s doing us more harm than good.

In the latest podcast, I dove into the nature of stubbornness. We chat about the mental blocks that keep us stuck and the small mindset shifts that help. Keep reading for a quick summary, then hit play on the podcast at the top if you want the deeper dive.

Why We Hold On So Tight

Stubbornness can be a sneaky defence mechanism. We cling to what feels safe when we sense uncertainty or fear. It’s not always logical, but our brains love certainty, so we fight to keep familiar ground.

Sometimes we’re worried about looking foolish, or we dread being wrong. That anxious feeling can make us dig in our heels even more. Yet, the tougher we act, the more trapped we often feel.

“Stubbornness can be a form of self-protection. It's an attempt at feeling safe.”

When Being Right Seems Essential

Have you ever noticed yourself in an argument and suddenly nothing else matters but winning? You may feel your heart race as the other person challenges your viewpoint. It’s tempting to double down, even if that means ignoring a more balanced perspective.

Our minds can turn disagreements into personal threats: if someone says we’re wrong, we worry they’re undermining our intelligence or judgement. So we resist. The trick is learning to catch ourselves in the act, then shifting our approach.

Three Questions That Help Soften Stubbornness

When I notice that stubborn energy rising, I’ve got three questions I ask myself. They help me step back and figure out whether I’m standing my ground or just stuck.

• Am I trying to feel safe or stay in control? We often cling to old ways just to feel secure. Asking this helps reveal what’s really stopping us from budging.
• What would happen if I let go of needing to be right? Giving yourself permission to be unsure can be scary, but it also opens fresh possibilities. Suddenly, you’re not locked into a forced stance.
• Is there a friendlier, more curious approach? Curiosity naturally lowers defences. It’s a simple way to invite conversation instead of conflict.

Little Steps to Create Big Shifts

Sometimes that small pause before reacting makes all the difference. If you can breathe and look at the bigger picture, you’ll see that being correct isn’t the only goal. You’re not alone if you feel tried by that moment of tension. Taking one breath, letting the urge to lash out pass, and checking in with yourself is huge.

If you slip up and snap or cling stubbornly, it’s not the end of the world. This is a learning process—treat yourself with kindness. Your willingness to grow is more powerful than any temporary showdown of wills.

• Stubbornness often protects us from uncertainty.
• Our fear of appearing wrong multiplies that need to be right.
• Simple questions can reset our thinking loops.
• Curiosity cracks stubbornness open and allows in fresh perspectives.

Ready to dive into the full conversation? The podcast player at the top is waiting. Give it a listen for stories, tips, and a down-to-earth chat about softening stubbornness. Let’s loosen up and grow together!