Taking Credit As A Dyslexic

Do you ever fly past your achievements and forget to pat yourself on the back? If you're anything like me, stopping to acknowledge the good stuff can feel like strolling through quicksand. In this episode, we explore how our dyslexic minds often dodge compliments and shift our focus straight to the next big challenge.

We'll look at why this happens, and you'll see you're not alone if you've ever felt scared to celebrate your wins. I'll share personal insights and some friendly tips to help you drop the guilt, along with ideas for building a healthier way to own your accomplishments.

Why We Brush Off Our Wins

Many dyslexics grow up feeling they're on the back foot. We learn to move fast and pick ourselves up after challenges because we're constantly trying to keep up. But this leads to a pattern of zooming past the good things we've done.

You might think, “I just got lucky,” or “I winged it,” so it doesn't count. That's the dyslexic brain nudging you with doubt. It's so easy to notice what's missing instead of what's right in front of us.

"Sometimes I feel like I'm faking it, and as soon as people figure it out, they'll see I'm not really that good at what I do." – Listener from the podcast

Fears like that shape our habits. Recognising them can help you accept that you do deserve praise. When you see those feelings for what they are, it's easier to loosen their grip.

How Imposter Syndrome Catches Us

Have you ever thought, “I can't possibly be that smart”? If yes, say hello to imposter syndrome. It's that nagging voice that insists you'll be found out. Dyslexics can feel this more than most. We're told we're different from a young age, and that can make us think our wins are flukes.

But the truth is, the more we tell ourselves it’s luck, the more we knock our self-esteem. We miss out on the fun and pride that come from celebrating victories, big or small.

Here are a few reasons we might doubt ourselves:

• Constant comparing: We compare our weaknesses to others’ strengths.
• High-speed thinking: We’re onto the next big thing before we realise we did well on the last task.
• Past negative experiences: A history of struggles with reading or writing can stick in our memory.

When those old voices come up, remind yourself they’re echoes from the past, not your reality now.

Breaking the Cycle

Stepping out of this pattern starts with deciding you're allowed to enjoy your achievements. Sounds simple, doesn't it? Yet it can feel so hard. I’ve found that taking a quiet moment, even if it's just a minute or two, gives you space to reflect on what you've done well.

Here are a few ways to do it:

• Count your wins daily: Before bed, think of one thing you did well, even if it seems small. Little successes feed bigger confidence.
• Record your achievements: Jot them in a journal or on your phone. On days when you feel hopeless, read through them for a boost.
• Share your story: Tell a friend or family member about something you've accomplished. Speaking it out loud feels different to thinking it.

Over time, these habits can help balance the inner critic and remind you that yes, you do deserve credit.

Finding a Happier Middle Ground

Taking credit for your work doesn't mean you have to stand on a pedestal or shout from the rooftops. You can still be humble while acknowledging what you do well. There's a middle ground where gratitude and pride can exist together.

When self-doubt creeps up, remember: you're learning to trust yourself. It's a process. I often say one small "yay me" moment is progress. When that becomes second nature, you open new doors in your mind that help counter the anxious chatter.

Celebration doesn't have to be grand or loud. A heartfelt “I did that!” is sometimes enough. Maybe it’s a favourite coffee, a relaxing bath, or allowing yourself ten minutes to be still and reflect. Whatever works for you can become a well-earned mini-celebration.

• Gratitude is healthy when it's genuine.
• Pride doesn't have to be arrogant, it can be calm and restorative.
• Moving forward without ignoring success is like adding fuel to your motivation.

These small shifts add up, so keep going until you notice a change in how you feel about yourself.

Key Takeaways

• Recognise imposter syndrome as a pattern, not the truth.
• Make time to acknowledge at least one win a day.
• Share your achievements with someone you trust.
• Celebrating doesn't make you arrogant, it fuels healthy self-esteem.

Ready to dive deeper? There's more in the full episode, including my personal stories and practical ways to build your self-belief. The podcast player is waiting for you at the top of this page, so hit play and see how these ideas resonate with you.