The Hidden Cost Of Hybrid Work For Dyslexic Brains

Has remote work changed your day in ways you never expected? Do you ever open your email inbox only to feel overwhelmed before you’ve even begun? In this podcast episode, Stephen explores why our new remote reality is both exciting and challenging. He tackles how it feels for people with dyslexia or ADHD when they’re swamped with messages, meetings, and endless digital demands, and he offers real-life ideas for easing that overload.

Stephen touches on the power of organising your digital space to reduce stress, as well as how to set realistic work boundaries. He also delves into the importance of showing yourself kindness when things go off track. If you’ve ever thought, “I should be better at this,” this episode will remind you that you’re not alone. Let’s dive into a few highlights below.

The Changing Face of Remote Work

For many of us, remote work started as a novelty. Pyjamas, comfy slippers, and the promise of skipping commutes seemed too good to be true. Then the reality hit. We faced a whole new set of problems—lack of direct interaction, poor communication methods, and massive email overload.

Stephen shares it like it is. Being remote shifts our rhythm, especially for those with a neurodiverse brain. Everything from quick chats to major team meetings piles into our inbox and chat feeds. You may notice how easy it is to miss crucial information or get stuck double-reading the same paragraph.

“Emails are probably the biggest productivity killer, because they often demand immediate attention yet rarely deserve it.” — Stephen

This isn’t just about hating email. It’s about knowing when a particular channel works best, and finding ways to make those communications more accessible for dyslexic or ADHD minds.

Facing Information Overload

Information overload makes it tough to focus. You can’t just blame laziness or lack of willpower. For many with dyslexia, the sheer volume of data and texts can lead to a mental shutdown. We’re not talking about spelling a word incorrectly, we’re talking about the brain working overtime to process and interpret each message.

Stephen explains how modern workplaces assume we all digest text at top speed. The reality is that we each have filters that either help or hinder how we sift through info. When those filters are already working overtime, you get drained fast.

If you feel you’re drowning in notifications, you’re not alone. But it’s possible to manage. Setting manageable goals for tackling those emails, turning off non-essential notifications, and taking regular breaks all help calm that storm of incoming information.

Tools That Lighten the Cognitive Load

When you’re juggling multiple projects, clarity is gold. A great strategy is using screen capture software like Loom. It’s far easier to show on-screen steps or record personalised messages than send a text-heavy email. Tools like Notebook LM can also help you understand complex material by breaking it down.

Stephen also emphasises the value of having a system for keeping digital files neat and tidy. Think of it like spring cleaning your folders. Over time, random downloads, screenshots, and documents can stack up. Spend a little time now creating labelled folders or a colour-coded system. You’ll thank yourself every time you don’t have to scroll through pages of clutter to find that one file you need.

Here are a few ideas you might try:

• Use tech tools like Notebook LM to summarise or clarify lengthy documents.
• Create a folder structure that mirrors how you think. If you think in visuals, name folders with easy-to-visualise labels.
• Record demos or explanations with Loom. It’s more effective than typing out instructions.

Setting Boundaries for Your Brain

One of the biggest eye-openers is that, for many, work never seems to end. You check email at breakfast or go through messages before bed. There’s a feeling that if you don’t stay on top of each alert, you’ll fall behind.

Stephen underlines how vital it is to create time blocks where you turn off notifications. Our brains need space to switch off. This includes letting yourself step away from the screen without feeling guilty. Building a boundary around your work hours is not only good for your mental health, it also improves focus when you do re-engage.

If you worry about missing something urgent, choose a time mid-afternoon for a quick check. But make it strict. Let your team know you won’t be glued to your inbox at every moment. Chances are, many people will appreciate your honesty and might even follow suit.

Embracing Neurodiversity and Self-Kindness

The modern workplace isn’t built for every brain. It often overlooks those of us who don’t process or organise information the same way as others. So, adapting means learning what works for you, even if it’s not standard practice.

Stephen encourages you to define success on your own terms. It can be as simple as using a bullet journal or making a to-do list that visually resonates with you. If you make mistakes, don’t dwell. Like Stephen says, being kind to yourself fuels the grit you need to try again.

Shame and self-blame don’t help. If you misread a message or send a late email, that’s part of being human. Give yourself permission to learn from it and move on. Adopting this mindset ensures you’re far more likely to stay motivated in a world that can feel overwhelming.

• Recognise when you need a break, and schedule it.
• Talk openly with colleagues about your communication preferences.
• Test out new tools or methods, and keep what you love.
• Forgive yourself for slip-ups. They happen to everyone.

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Key Takeaways

• Remote work reshapes how we connect, and it can be tricky for people with dyslexia.
• It’s not just about spelling. Dyslexia can affect how you consume and sort information.
• Too many emails reduce focus. Try video or voice tools for clarity.
• Organising your digital space can feel like a huge relief.
• Setting personal boundaries helps preserve mental energy.
• Self-kindness encourages resilience in a demanding work environment.

Inspired to learn more about tackling remote work and dyslexia head-on? Check out the full episode above for Stephen’s deeper insights, along with practical tips you can start using right now.