So I’m Dyslexic. Now What?

Have you ever had that moment when someone mentions dyslexia and you think, “Wait, is that me?” Realising you might have dyslexia can feel both freeing and intimidating. In our latest episode, we tackled the question we hear all the time: what do you actually do when you discover you may be dyslexic?

We chatted about common misconceptions, the pros and cons of getting diagnosed, and the journey that comes after. Whether you’re seeking clarity for yourself or supporting someone else, this episode explores the practical (and emotional) next steps to consider.

Realising You May Have Dyslexia

That first spark of awareness often starts with noticing everyday struggles: trouble reading text, mixing up letters, or finding it hard to concentrate when everyone else seems fine. You might have heard friends suggest it or even skimmed articles that described your challenges perfectly. It’s normal to feel a sense of relief alongside that old worry of “What’s wrong with me?”

The truth is that dyslexia shows up differently for each of us. Some people live decades thinking they’re just slow readers or not “academic.” Others might have been told they’re lazy or daydreamy. Once you stumble upon the word dyslexia, it’s like a light goes on: you’re not alone or incompetent. This realisation is the first step toward gaining deeper insight.

Does a Diagnosis Fix Your Life?

Getting an official diagnosis can be a great step, but it’s not a magic wand that makes problems disappear. It’s more like a confirmation or an explanation of what you’ve been experiencing all along. There's comfort in having a name for it, and it can help you find resources or extra support at work and school. Still, it doesn’t solve everything overnight.

A real diagnosis often leads to more questions: “Why didn’t I know sooner?” or “What do I do now?” If you’re an adult, it can feel like you missed out on early interventions. Still, many people find that this formal piece of paper helps them negotiate workplace accommodations and get empathy from loved ones who might have downplayed their struggles.

“A diagnosis is a door-opener. It doesn’t mend the past, but it can light the way forward.”

That forward path includes learning more about your unique thinking style. Dyslexia is not just about struggling with words. It can also mean big-picture thinking, creativity, and a knack for out-of-the-box solutions.

Embracing the Journey Beyond Diagnosis

Once you discover you’re dyslexic, consider this the start of a longer journey. You’ll likely need to make small adjustments in daily life, like using text-to-speech tools, organising tasks in a more visual way, or breaking big projects into smaller chunks. You may also find it helpful to talk with people who “get it,” whether that’s in online communities or in-person support groups.

You don’t have to do everything at once. Small steps can make a massive difference. Here are a few suggestions if you’re feeling a bit lost:

• Ask for help at work or university if you need it.
• Try different apps that make reading or note-taking easier.
• Identify tasks that stress you out and see if you can delegate or swap them with tasks that suit your strengths.
• Remember that dyslexia can bring creativity and out-of-the-box problem solving.

Some people jump right into coaching or therapy to get personalised strategies. Others simply talk to friends or family, learning from others’ experiences. The key is to do what feels right, rather than forcing someone else’s plan onto your situation.

Where Our Upcoming Course Fits In

We know how overwhelming it can be to figure out what’s next, so we’re creating a course that simplifies the process. It covers the basics of recognising dyslexia in daily life, building supportive habits, and leveraging your unique skills. You’ll come away from it not just with knowledge, but a much clearer sense of direction. Learn more here if you’re interested.

This course is designed for adults who suspect they’re dyslexic or who’ve recently received a diagnosis. It’s a chance to explore common issues like time management, reading speed, or self-esteem, while tapping into the new perspectives that can make dyslexia a strength instead of a weakness.

• Practical tips for coping with daily tasks
• Self-reflection exercises to build confidence
• Community support for sharing victories and struggles

It’s all about rediscovering your voice and claiming your learning style as valid and valuable.

Key Takeaways

• Realising you’re dyslexic can explain past struggles and bring relief.
• A diagnosis itself doesn’t fix everything, but it can open new doors.
• Every dyslexic mind is unique, so strategies vary.
• Support and community can transform frustration into confidence.
• Continuing to learn about dyslexia can help you use your strengths.

There’s no one-size-fits-all solution, and that’s perfectly fine. The journey is about trying things out, seeing what works, and remembering that you’re not alone. If you’re ready to dive deeper, listen to the full episode at the top of this page for more insights, personal stories, and a few laughs along the way.