Why Are We Not Perfect

Ever feel like your self-confidence vanishes the moment you compare yourself to others? You're not alone. In this episode of the Truth About Dyslexia (podcast player at the top), we explore how dyslexics often battle with self love and self worth when everyday life already feels like an uphill climb.

We talk about the draining habit of doubting our abilities. We also cover why it's crucial to cultivate empathy for ourselves first, so we can move forward with greater clarity and motivation. Below are some of the most important insights from this conversation.

Why Confidence Feels Elusive

For many dyslexics, confidence doesn't come naturally. School might have taught us we're slower readers or poor spellers. Even if we excelled in art or problem-solving, we often gave more weight to areas where we struggled.

It creates an internal voice that shouts, “You're just messing up again.” That negativity can become so familiar that we assume our abilities are always lacking. It's important to recognise that these beliefs reflect a learned pattern, not the truth of our potential.

Overcoming the Shame Cycle

Shame can trip us up. It's powerful because it often rides on the back of comparison. We look around, see others breezing through tasks, and we think, “What's wrong with me?” The longer we hold onto shame, the harder it becomes to see our strengths.

I shared a bit about this in the podcast, too:

“Dyslexics struggle with self love and self confidence so much, and I want to speak on it again—my learnings and my struggle.”

Stepping away from shame takes conscious effort. We need to acknowledge it when it rears its head, remind ourselves that everyone's journey is different, and shift our focus to growth.

Cultivating Self Love

Self love isn't just an airy concept. It shows up when we choose to forgive ourselves for mistakes, praise ourselves for small victories, and set realistic goals. It's how we turn down the volume on the self-criticism that runs in the background.

Here are some effective ways to build self love:

• Talk to yourself like you would to a friend.
• Intentionally focus on achievements, even tiny ones.
• Allow space for imperfection—you won't do everything perfectly.
• Seek out resources intended for dyslexics, from books to supportive communities.

When self love grows, confidence follows. We've all seen how a simple shift in mindset can encourage us to try new things or speak up at work or in social settings. It's liberating to let go of the old mental scripts that told us we couldn't do it.

Using Community for Encouragement

Dyslexia can feel isolating, but it doesn't have to be. Gathering with others who understand your experiences adds extra fuel to your journey. Sharing your story, hearing how someone else copes, and offering support in return make a real difference.

I'm reminded of how, after joining a dyslexia support group, I realised I wasn't broken. I found practical tips about daily struggles, but more importantly, I felt validated. No one laughed at my reading speed or my quirky spelling. Instead, they pointed out how I'd discovered unique solutions for everyday problems.

When you invest time in a community, you stop feeling like the outsider who can't keep up. You become part of a team, all striving for progress rather than perfection.

• Connect with others online or in local meetups.
• Celebrate each other's wins, no matter how small.
• Encourage open dialogue about the mental load of dyslexia.

Key Takeaways

• Confidence often wavers because we've been taught to focus on what we're lacking rather than our gifts.
• Shame can be limiting, but recognising it is the first step to letting it go.
• Small acts of self love add up over time, helping us shift from self-criticism to self-acceptance.
• Building community reminds us we're not alone and that our worth isn't defined by our challenges.

If any of this resonates, take a moment to listen to the full episode at the top of the page. It's packed with personal insights and practical reminders that can help you on your journey. Let's keep supporting one another—because when it comes to dyslexia and self-confidence, nobody should have to go it alone.