
Think Clearly Hack For Dyslexics
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Have you ever felt like your mind is racing in a hundred different directions while you’re just trying to focus on one simple task? It can feel exhausting, like trying to herd cats that scatter as soon as you think you’ve got them cornered. In this episode, we uncover a simple trick to keep your attention steady when your brain hops around like a restless rabbit.
This hack is ideal for anyone who battles the wandering mind, especially those with dyslexia or ADHD tendencies. We talk about why overthinking can tear you away from your goals and how a tiny shift in your awareness can bring you back on track. It’s all about taking control, even if you’ve got a million and one thoughts that threaten to pull you off course.
Why Our Minds Wander
Having a dyslexic mind can feel like juggling ten balls while someone keeps throwing more into the mix. You want to stay focused, but it can be a real challenge to keep your thoughts in check, especially when you’re tired. That’s when you might catch yourself getting frustrated or possibly giving up on a task.
The truth is our brains are wired for creativity and outside-the-box thinking. We see connections others might miss. The downside is that inspiration can strike at odd times. When you’re in the middle of a work project, your brain could decide now is the perfect time to imagine tomorrow’s breakfast, last week’s meeting, or a new business idea. Learning a simple mental cue to snap back into the present moment is key.
A Simple Hack for Laser-Focus
On this podcast, I shared a small trick that’s surprisingly effective. It’s nothing fancy, and it doesn’t require special tools. It’s just a quick way to remind your brain that you’re in control, not the random thoughts.
“One of the challenges I have is my mind running off like a rabbit with a crack addiction.”
That line from the episode might make you chuckle, but it’s the truth. If you can relate, you’ll want to know how to harness that rabbit’s energy in a constructive way. My hack involves noticing when your mind drifts, then gently telling yourself it’s time to come back. Think of it like tapping the rabbit on the shoulder before it races off again.
Putting This Hack into Action
You might be wondering how to apply it. Start small. The moment you realise you’re lost in thought, pause. Breathe in, then exhale slowly, and label that moment: “I’m daydreaming.” The simple tip is to name what’s happening, then return to the task at hand. It’s like catching a wandering child by the hand and guiding them back to the path.
Try this in different scenarios. If you’re reading, and your eyes are scanning the page without absorbing anything, stop and name it: “I’m drifting.” If you’re writing an email, but your mind leaps to your to-do list, notice that leap, affirm it, then refocus on the email. This repetition trains your brain to spot daydreaming without shame or blame. It’s a gentle call home, reminding your mind who’s in charge.
Daily Reminders to Keep You on Track
It helps to set up little triggers around you as daily reminders. Place a sticky note on the edge of your screen that says: “Focus.” You could even set an alarm on your phone that reminds you to check whether you’ve drifted. These small cues poke your thoughts and wake you up from autopilot.
Also think about your environment. If there are too many distractions, your mind will have a field day. Clear off your desk, or at least shove all the clutter into a neat pile off to the side so your eyes don’t get caught on random objects. If you’re easily lured by your phone, silence those notifications or park it in another room for an hour. That quiet shift can make a huge difference.
- Use simple reminders like sticky notes or phone alarms.
- Notice when your mind drifts, then label it and refocus.
- Keep your workspace tidy to limit visual distractions.
- Lower your phone’s pull by turning off notifications.
These steps might seem small, but they add up. You’ll notice yourself becoming quicker at catching your wayward thoughts before they run off with your productivity.
Make 2021 Your Best Year Yet
Sometimes we need a bit more support to reach our goals. If you’re ready to take your focus to the next level, I’ve got something special for you. My short course, “Make 2021 Your Best Year Yet,” was created to help dyslexics like us build a clear action plan. It’s usually $47, but right now it’s only $27. You can find it here:
https://courses.truthaboutdyslexia.com/bestyearyet
Offering practical steps, uplifting reminders, and a friendly push in the right direction, this course can propel you forward with clarity. You’ll learn to spot and stop patterns that hold you back. You’ll also practise strategies to follow through on your goals, even on days when your mind wants to escape.
- Identify areas that drain your focus.
- Craft a plan that fits your natural strengths.
- Build momentum through simple daily habits.
Don’t let your busy brain define your year. Take this opportunity to learn, grow, and connect with others who understand the dyslexic mind. It’s a great time to start taking charge, one small step at a time.
A Few Key Takeaways
- You can train your mind to notice and name drifting thoughts.
- Focus hacks work best when they’re simple and easy to recall.
- Physical cues like sticky notes can keep your attention on track.
- Little changes in your workspace or phone settings reduce distraction.
This isn’t about shutting off your brilliant brain. It’s about guiding it gently. Over time, you’ll feel more at ease with your creative flow and more in control of where your energy goes.
Curious to learn more? Be sure to listen to the full episode, which you’ll find at the top of this page. You’ll hear the full story behind my favourite focus hack and get some personal anecdotes about how it’s helped me overcome my own distractions. Give it a listen, and let me know how this strategy works for you.