Tik Tok, Dyslexia And Dopamine

Have you been putting off using TikTok because you’re worried it’ll suck away your focus? I did the same thing for ages, then I finally took the plunge and hopped on board.

In this episode, I talk about why I avoided TikTok, what finally changed my mind, and what I found when I joined. I share a few pitfalls to watch out for if you’re already on it or just thinking about signing up. Most of all, I highlight how you can use it in a way that doesn’t dominate your energy. Let’s dive in.

Why I Steered Clear of TikTok

For a while, I saw TikTok as a place for dancing teens and nothing else. I was certain it wasn’t for me. It felt overwhelming, and I assumed it’d be a bottomless feed I wouldn’t escape. Then I realised it was becoming one of the fastest-growing platforms with people from all walks of life.

My initial hesitation came from a fear of rabbit holes. With ADHD or dyslexia, you can get caught up in endless scrolling, so it’s good to be cautious. It’s not all doom though. I discovered there’s an entire community of creators sharing valuable tips, including content on dyslexia awareness.

What Changed My Mind

I reached a point where I couldn’t ignore the platform’s potential. More and more people kept bringing it up. It seemed every second person was saying, “Are you on TikTok yet?” So I decided it was time to jump in and experiment.

I was absolutely convinced I’d never step foot on TikTok... until now.

It turned out to be far more interesting than I expected. It became clear that if you’re focused on self-improvement, you can find micro-videos that really hit home. People share personal stories about dyslexia, mental health, and everyday insights. Despite the legendary addictive features, it’s possible to carve out value if you set boundaries.

Staying Mindful While Using TikTok

Short-form video can be a blessing for the easily distracted. Still, it’s good to remember how fast time can fly by when you’re in “just one more video” mode. Setting limits has been crucial for me. A simple app timer or a routine helps me stay in control.

It’s also good to follow accounts that uplift you, not bury you in negativity or comparison. It’s all too easy to measure your life against highlight reels. Instead, curate your feed so you see content that’s inspiring, real, and helpful for your journey.

• Use screen time tools to keep scrolling in check.
• Unfollow creators who don’t add value or joy.
• Focus on topics you’re passionate about—dyslexia, self-growth, or anything that matters to you.

The Detox Trick When Needed

One thing I talk about in the episode is the power of taking breaks. If you catch yourself scrolling aimlessly, step away. Do something else for a few minutes. Regulate your mind so it doesn’t get stuck in that loop.

Part of using TikTok mindfully is recognising when you need a pause. You can always come back later. I find even a brief break can reset my brain’s focus and stop me going down unproductive rabbit holes.

By the way, if you want to see how I’m navigating TikTok, follow me here: https://www.tiktok.com/@truthaboutdyslexia.

• Step away for a moment if you feel overwhelmed.
• Reassess whether you’re watching what you truly want to see.
• Enjoy quick bursts of inspiration without getting stuck.

Key Takeaways

• Don’t be afraid to try new platforms, even if you’re wary of time drain.
• Set boundaries, like screen time controls or mini-breaks, to protect your focus.
• Surround yourself with creators who support and motivate your growth.
• Keep your goals in mind so you don’t slip into endless scrolling.

Curious to hear the complete story and some real-life examples? Scroll up to the player at the top of the page, and have a listen to the full episode. Happy scrolling—mindfully, of course!