The Dyslexic ‘Picture Lock’

Have you ever felt like your mind has painted such a vivid picture of something that you freeze in place? It's that moment when what you imagine seems so real it keeps you from actually doing anything. In this episode, I dive into how these powerful mental images can sometimes hold us back, and what we can do to push past them.

This podcast is full of moments where I share personal stories and insights into why our brains cling to certain pictures, even when they cause stress or procrastination. By understanding how we form these mental images, we can learn ways to shift them or see them differently, which can free us to take action and move forward.

Why Our Imaginations Can Hold Us Hostage

Our imagination can be a wonderful tool, especially when you’re someone who thinks visually. It’s like a mini projector in your mind. That same projector, though, can make us believe we've already lived out future scenarios, so we end up doing nothing in real life.

Many of us don’t notice we’re even stuck. We think we’re just being cautious or planning properly, when in fact, we’re stalling because of a mental picture that’s either too big or too scary. We never question it because it’s been with us for so long.

Real-Life Examples You Might Relate To

It could be the image of what success should look like, so you avoid taking a new job because it doesn’t match that perfect vision. Or maybe it’s a picture of failing so badly you'll look silly, so you never start that creative project. Sometimes, even the most exciting ideas are overshadowed by negative “what ifs.”

We hold onto these images as if they’re actual memories. But it’s vital to remember they’re only possibilities, not certainties. When we face them head-on, we often see they’re not as powerful as they initially felt.

• Fear of failure at a new hobby
• Worry that a conversation will be awkward
• Conviction that you’re already too busy to try something new

Challenging the Pictures in Your Head

We can’t simply erase these mental masterpieces, but we can question them. Ask yourself: “Is this fear or image actually true?” Often, you’ll find that you’re projecting a fear, not a fact. You can also try talking it through with a friend or using a journal. Writing or speaking out loud can break a loop that’s spinning in your mind.

In the podcast, I share some stories where this was absolutely the case. I felt locked in by these pictures. But once I paused and asked, “Is this really the end or just a story I’m telling myself?” I started seeing those pictures for what they were: illusions that only existed in my head.

“I realised that the picture in my brain was more vivid than the reality I was experiencing. It was keeping me locked up, and I had no idea.”

Shifting Perspective and Gaining Momentum

If you’re feeling stuck, know that the first step is acknowledging it. We often try to outrun these limiting beliefs or push them aside, but recognising them is key to moving forward. Once you do, you gain the power to consciously choose what to do next.

Taking small steps can help you break the spell. Instead of imagining the entire journey at once, focus on a tiny action you can take today. It might be signing up for a free class or setting a 10-minute timer to do a brainstorm. These little moves chip away at that overwhelming image and remind you that action creates clarity.

1. Recognise the picture holding you back
2. Question whether it’s fact or fear
3. Take a small step, no matter how tiny

Why This Matters More Than You Think

When we get stuck in these mental loops, we’re stuck in our own heads for far too long. We end up missing opportunities because we think we can anticipate every twist and turn. But the world is far more surprising, wonderful, and open than our imagination can predict.

By freeing yourself from the trap of a single mental image, you can explore new ideas, meet new people, and learn things you never would have otherwise. It’s all about getting that momentum started. Once it’s going, you’ll find it easier and easier to stay in motion.

Here are a few quick takeaways from the episode:

• Our minds create elaborate pictures that can feel very real.
• Questioning these pictures helps you spot which are fear-based.
• Small steps can help you break big limiting beliefs.
• A shift in perspective can unlock new opportunities and growth.

If you want to dive deeper into these ideas, check out the full podcast episode (player is at the top). I share more personal stories and practical tips to help you recognise and overcome the mental illusions that hold you back. Listen and see how a simple shift in how you see things can make a huge difference!