Story About Stories

If you’ve ever felt tangled in self-doubt or convinced that a single mistake would confirm your worst fears, this episode is for you. I share my story on the soccer pitch and how our dyslexic minds can spin tales that aren’t always true.

We explore the ways negative inner scripts sabotage our confidence and how to flip the narrative. You’ll learn about the power of recognising these thoughts for what they are—stories—and choosing a different, more empowering path. Discover how a few simple shifts can help you see yourself in a kinder light.

Where Dyslexia Shows Up on the Field

Soccer for me wasn’t just a game. It was a place I tested my limits and found out what I believed about my own abilities. One day, I stepped onto the pitch full of hope but left feeling crushed. My mind had painted me as the weakest link, and I carried that label all match.

This is the trouble with dyslexia sometimes. It doesn’t just affect how we read or spell—it colours how we see ourselves. What started as a missed pass quickly turned into a mental spiral. I saw every slip-up as proof I wasn’t good enough, which in turn made me freeze and forget the skills I did have.

The Stories We Tell Ourselves

Our minds can be incredible storytellers, but they’re not always accurate. One hiccup can morph into a grand narrative about our identity. In my case, the story was, “You can’t do anything right on the field.” This was far from true, but in the moment, it felt so real.

“I still remember that moment on the field when my beliefs about myself nearly stopped me from playing the game I love.”

The quote above reminds me that when we let these self-defeating stories run the show, we stop taking risks. We fade into the background, missing out on chances to shine. The good news is we can rewrite the plot once we recognise the lie.

Shifting the Perspective

Breaking free starts with awareness. Once I realised my negative chatter was driving the bus, I could do something about it. Maybe you’ve felt convinced you’re not creative enough, smart enough, or even likeable enough—you name it. The key is pausing to question that story each time it shows up.

Ask yourself simple questions:

• Is this belief absolutely true?
• What evidence do I have that contradicts it?
• How would I speak to a friend in the same situation?

We often treat our insecurities as fact. By shifting from “I’m always messing up” to “I can learn and improve,” our attitude changes, and so do our outcomes.

Tools to Rewrite the Script

If you catch yourself spiralling or shrinking into the corner, try these simple strategies:

• Practice Mindfulness: Breathe and observe your thoughts, then label them as thoughts, not truths.
• Use Mantras or Affirmations: Choose phrases like “I’m learning a new skill” or “I bounce back from challenges.”
• Find a Support System: Ask for honest feedback from people you trust. They’ll give you a more balanced view.
• Celebrate Small Wins: Every good pass, friendly suggestion, or completed task can be fuel for your confidence.

Your goal is to remind yourself that a stumble isn’t a life sentence. It’s just a sign you’re pushing your boundaries and growing in the process.

The Power of Choice

When I stepped back on the field after my rough day, I made a choice not to let the fear of messing up hold me back. I kicked the ball with confidence, even though I felt nervous. Those small steps, even if they weren’t flawless, showed me I could overcome the anxious narrative in my head.

You don’t need some grand overhaul. Even small moments of courage can smash old beliefs. Each time you choose to see yourself in a more loving way, you rewrite your personal story. This is the essence of managing dyslexia-related mind chatter—recognising you have a choice in how you see yourself.

Key Takeaways

• Notice when negative thoughts slip in—this awareness is where change begins.
• Challenge your beliefs by looking for proof that contradicts them.
• Use small steps and small wins to build confidence gradually.
• Seek supportive people who’ll encourage and keep you grounded.

Curious to hear the full story and a deeper dive into these ideas? Listen to the episode at the top of this page and uncover fresh ways to handle those unhelpful scripts.