Updatecast: Hard Days, Disorientation And Dyslexia

Ever felt like you were juggling too many things at once? In this podcast episode, Stephen Martin admits that he sometimes falls into this trap, and it gets even trickier when you're dyslexic or neurodiverse. He shares a recent personal challenge, explains how he overcame it, and offers a fresh look at how our brains handle the world.

Stephen also chats about stumbling upon an old video he voiced on dyslexia. It reminds him how unique our perception can be, how our minds often see the world in 3D, and why taking breaks is a big deal.

Facing Personal Challenges

Many of us with dyslexia or ADHD take on too much. We want to do everything at once, and before we know it, we're burnt out. Stephen talks about a moment where this hit him hard. He had overscheduled his day and expected way too much from himself.

When he realised that stress was creeping in, he pushed the pause button for a moment. This taught him that it's okay to step back, rest, and then return with fresh eyes. Prioritising isn't just a buzzword; it's survival. Give yourself permission to slow down when life's spinning too fast.

Finding an Old Video and Embracing a 3D Mindset

A fun realisation came when Stephen stumbled upon a video he recorded years ago all about dyslexia. He saw how different his perspective was back then. This reminded him that growth sometimes happens without us noticing—until we come across proof of where we used to be.

"It’s like the world turns into a puzzle," Stephen shares. "Because I'm dyslexic, I can see how the pieces fit in ways others might miss."

The dyslexic mind isn't locked into the usual left-to-right flow. It's creative, often 3D, and that can be a superpower when it comes to problem-solving. Embracing that ability instead of fighting it can lead to unexpected breakthroughs.

Why Breaks Matter

By now, you might notice a theme: we all need to pause sometimes. Stephen jokes that many of us are terrible at it. We feel guilty stepping away from our to-do list. Yet, those breaks give your brain space to reset.

It’s easy to forget we’re only human. Stephen reminds us that breaks recharge our energy. When we return, we’re clearer-headed and ready to tackle whatever’s next. Sometimes that’s all we need to stop feeling overwhelmed and regain our sense of control.

Giving Up Drinking and Sleeping Better

Another part of Stephen’s journey involves giving up drinking. He highlights that quitting booze helped him sleep better. Sleep can be a game-changer for people with dyslexia or ADHD, because our brains work differently.

By removing alcohol from his routine, Stephen found he was more focused during the day. He also felt in tune with his emotions and had more patience. This small change had a big ripple effect on his overall wellbeing.

Takeaways

• It’s easy to pile on too many tasks, so prioritising is key.
• Taking breaks isn’t laziness—it's a way to honour your mind and body.
• Dyslexia often involves a 3D approach to the world, turning challenges into creative solutions.
• Quitting alcohol can improve sleep and mental clarity.

Intrigued by Stephen’s insights and want to hear more? The podcast player is right at the top of the page, so go ahead and press play. If you’d like more support or resources, visit truthaboutdyslexia.com or join our Facebook community at facebook.com/groups/adultdyslexia. You’re never alone on this journey—tune in and let’s grow together.