Using Dyslexia To Reach Your Goals

It’s that time of year when everyone’s talking about goals and fresh starts. If you caught my last podcast, you’ll know I love this season for dreaming big and planning ahead. But if you’re like me, you might feel scattered when putting plans on paper. This episode digs into how I use dyslexia to my advantage when setting goals.

In the podcast, I chat about why our brains can be brilliant at brainstorming but clumsy with follow-through. I share real examples of how I work with my strengths, like visual thinking, to shape goals I can actually achieve. You’ll also hear tips on staying motivated when everyday life gets in the way.

Embracing the Power of a Dyslexic Mind

People often think dyslexia will hold you back. That’s not always true. Our minds can be quick, inventive, and able to link ideas in unexpected ways. The challenge is to harness that power and steer it in the right direction.

In this podcast, I explain how a dyslexic brain can see patterns others miss. We picture solutions and spot shortcuts that look invisible to non-dyslexic thinkers. We just need to put that creative spark into a workable plan.

“I truly believe dyslexia can be your greatest advantage once you learn how to direct it.”

Goal Setting for Dyslexic Brains

Writing down goals isn’t always easy. Sometimes I stare at a list and my mind wanders off. But I’ve found that visualising my goals—either as images, mind maps, or sketches—keeps me excited. I don’t force myself to follow a standard method. That’s a relief.

Some people love a neat to-do list with checkboxes. Others need a colourful mind map or a voice note. If you’re dyslexic, it’s likely a combination that works best. Pick what feels natural. The key is that you actually connect with the method so you’ll come back to it.

I’ve also discovered I do better when I post these goals in my line of sight. It might be a post-it note near my computer or a mind map beside my bed. Our brains can easily forget. A little reminder can help keep us on track.

Turning Ideas into Action

If I only dream, I never see results. It’s important to move from “wouldn’t it be great if…” to “I’m taking the first step.” But how do you get started when your mind leaps from one idea to the next?

Here are a few ways I make sure my goals don’t stay stuck in dreamland:

• Keep it simple. Focus on one or two main objectives, so you don’t overwhelm yourself.
• Use bite-sized steps. Break down each goal into small tasks you can handle each day or week.
• Celebrate small wins. Give yourself a pat on the back when you tick something off.
• Ask for help. Don’t be afraid to rope in a friend or family member for feedback or support.

I also talk about accountability in the episode. Sharing your goal with someone you trust is a powerful motivator. Some of us thrive on buddy systems. Others prefer journalling. Either way, we want to move from thoughts to action every day, even if it’s just five minutes of focused effort.

How I Stay on Track

Life’s busy. Your dyslexic brain might jump to interesting distractions. I get it. Yet if I stray too far from my goals, I might never come back. I’ve learned to build structure around my creativity. That structure doesn’t have to be rigid.

In the podcast, I explain a few of my personal hacks:

• Use a timer for short sprints of goal work, like 15 minutes of planning or action.
• Check in weekly on what’s working. Pivot if something isn’t.
• Reward yourself with a break or a treat after a solid work session.

I also keep track of progress, even if it’s tiny. A scribbled note on my phone or a voice message to myself can help me see “Hey, I’m moving forward.” That sense of progress nudges me to keep going.

When I look back, I realise how much less stressful life is if I have a plan that matches how my brain works. Instead of forcing a method that doesn’t click, I lean on my creative streak. If I feel a bit blocked, I switch gears. The flexibility helps me stay engaged and open to new ideas.

Takeaways for Your Own Journey

• Find a planning style that matches your dyslexic strengths.
• Turn your ideas into small actions and tackle them step by step.
• Keep your goals visible and tangible to stay motivated.
• Check in with yourself often and adjust if needed.
• Lean on support, whether that’s friends, a coach, or useful tools.

If you want more practical ideas and personal stories, be sure to listen to the full episode. You’ll find the podcast player at the top of this page, so tune in and let me know what resonates with you. Your goals matter, and your dyslexic mind might be the secret weapon you’ve been overlooking.

Thanks for reading, and I hope this inspires you to think about your goals in a way that works for you. Listen to the episode when you can, and let’s keep building a community where dyslexia is seen for its gifts.

Happy goal setting, and I’ll catch you in the next one.