The Power Of Disappearing

Ever catch yourself drifting into vivid daydreams, only to snap back and realise those mental pictures felt absolutely real? This week on the podcast, we explore how dyslexics often ‘think in pictures,’ and how this shapes the way they communicate, interpret reality, and handle everyday emotions. It’s a deep dive into the surprising magic of visual cognition, and the hiccups that arise when those images get mixed up with what’s actually going on.

If you’ve ever found yourself reacting to something that never happened, or struggling with the gap between what you imagine and what’s real, this episode covers it all. We dig into the importance of awareness, the unique impact on communication, and how dyslexics can benefit from simple strategies to bring a bit more clarity to their daily interactions.

The Power of Picture Thinking

Many of us with dyslexia can imagine entire worlds in our heads. It’s not just a fleeting image, it’s a multi-dimensional movie that sometimes plays at full volume. On a good day, this ability is fantastic. It sparks creativity and problem-solving, and it helps us retain information when words alone might slip through the cracks.

Yet picture thinking does have its quirks. The clarity of these mental images can feel so intense that we may assume other people see them too. We might respond to questions with half-finished sentences, forgetting that our words haven’t drawn the same picture in someone else’s mind.

This gap between our internal images and how we express them can lead to misunderstandings, especially in quick interactions or chats. If you’ve ever stumbled over your words or noticed people giving you blank looks, you’re not alone.

How Visual Cognition Affects Everyday Communication

When you picture the world in your head, moments of confusion aren’t far behind. You might find yourself lost when someone explains a concept step by step without visual aids. Or you might lose track of a conversation because your mind’s buzzing with fresh images, while the speaker keeps moving on.

Sometimes the words we hear don’t align with the pictures we’re forming. We might latch onto key phrases and build entire scenarios in our minds, only to discover the real story was something else entirely. That’s when communication breaks down.

As our guest shared:

‘We often act on the pictures we create in our minds rather than what’s actually happening around us.’

We don’t always realise we’re doing it. We imagine how a conversation might play out, and react to our own version of reality. The result? We feel embarrassed when we recognise we’ve responded to a scenario that nobody else saw.

Balancing Imagination and Reality

Picture thinking lights up emotions. When you see a vivid image, your brain and body can react strongly. If you’ve ever felt a rush of excitement or panic after a daydream, you’ll know how powerful these mental images can be. For dyslexics, it explains why we might react in ways others find dramatic or unsteady.

The key is awareness. For instance, tuning in to when imagination creeps in and checking it against reality can save you from a world of confusion. Ask yourself: 'Is that really what they said, or did I fill in the gaps myself?' This small pause helps tone down emotional responses that stem from imagined scenarios.

Awareness also allows for kinder self-talk. Dyslexics can be quick to criticise themselves when they respond 'incorrectly.' But if you understand that your mind might have created a picture that didn’t match reality, it feels a bit less personal. You can laugh it off or calmly clarify the situation instead of beating yourself up.

Useful Tips for Navigating Cognitive Differences

The challenge is bridging the gap between the mental pictures you see and the conversation happening in front of you. Here are a few suggestions:

• Visual Aids: Use them wherever you can. Diagrams, images, or written keywords often align verbal information with your picture thinking.
• Summarise Out Loud: When you’re unsure you’ve got the right mental image, try repeating the main points back or ask for clarification.
• Short Bursts of Focus: If you find yourself drifting into an internal movie mid-conversation, take a brief pause and refocus on the speaker.
• Set Reminders: When you’ve got no visuals to work from, set a timer or specific mental checkpoints so you don’t wander off into daydreams.
• Communicate Your Style: Let those around you know that you might see the world in vivid pictures, and that sometimes you need a moment to match words with mental images.

Remember, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach. Experiment with different tactics and see what feels most natural. Awareness is half the battle. Once you know you’re a picture thinker, you can tailor your approach. On top of that, it’s a wonderful gift to share with non-dyslexics around you. It helps them meet you halfway.

Final Takeaways

• Dyslexics often rely on vivid pictures, which can be both a superpower and a source of confusion.
• These mental images can distort communication by adding layers of imagination to everyday interactions.
• Recognising when you’re reacting to a picture instead of reality can lessen emotional turmoil.
• Communicating plainly and using tools that keep you in touch with reality helps bridge understanding.
• Remember you’re not alone. Many adults with dyslexia or ADHD navigate these challenges successfully.

Curious for more? There’s an entire episode waiting for you at the top of this page. Tune in to hear the full conversation and pick up extra tips, stories, and insights. If you want to delve deeper, visit truthaboutdyslexia.com or join our friendly community at facebook.com/groups/adultdyslexia. You’ll find resources, personal stories, and real support for your journey. Get listening, and get inspired!