Ever felt uneasy about a quick glance someone gave you? This episode delves into that all-too-familiar feeling of being judged by strangers. We explore where that sensation comes from and why it hits differently when you’re already wrestling with dyslexia.

In today’s chat, I share a personal story from my morning walk. I noticed how much weight I gave to a random stare from someone I didn’t even know. It got me thinking about how we often overthink casual looks, or even non-looks, and let them colour our mood for the rest of the day. We then dive into how dyslexia magnifies these worries, and what we can do to handle it more confidently.

What Sparked This Feeling

I was strolling through my neighbourhood, minding my own business. A passer-by gave me what felt like a disapproving look. Nothing was said, yet my dyslexia brain went into overdrive. Was I walking oddly? Did I look anxious?

Honestly, these thoughts popped up before I could stop them. That’s the trickiness of dyslexia. It can make everyday encounters feel like big moments of judgment, even if they’re not. It’s as if our radar is tuned to pick up any whiff of negativity.

Why We Dread Judgement

Our experiences with reading, writing, or processing information can make us feel exposed. When we sense that someone is noticing our vulnerabilities, it stings more than usual. It’s not that we really want everyone to like us. It’s just that we’ve had enough of feeling misunderstood.

As I said in the podcast, there’s a moment when you wonder if you’re being sized up because you sometimes mix up words or stumble in conversation. It can echo through your mind for hours.

“That feeling of being judged by someone.. someone you have never spoken to, met or even care about…”

Tips for Keeping Your Confidence

No one can control what others think, but we can decide how we respond. Over the years, I’ve tried a few things to stay grounded in the face of judgement. These might help:

• Pause and Breathe: A quick calming breath can disrupt anxious thoughts.
• Remember Past Wins: Think about a time you tackled a tough task or overcame doubt. Let that confidence guide you.
• Focus on the Present: Distracting yourself with a positive action—like sipping water or adjusting your posture—can pull you out of negative spirals.

It’s also helpful to share these challenges with people who understand. Sometimes a friend’s reassuring voice reminds you you’re not alone in feeling judged.

Letting Go of Unhelpful Opinions

Most strangers who pass by probably aren’t judging us at all. They might be lost in thought, daydreaming, or simply in a rush. When we assume we’re the centre of their attention, we hand over our power.

Here’s a good reality check: The person you think is judging you doesn’t know the full story. They don’t see your creativity, your resilience, or the moments you shine. Why let them set the tone for your day?

Below are a few key takeaways from this episode, neatly summarised:

• Even a passing glance can feel overwhelming if you’re already self-conscious.
• Dyslexia can magnify everyday worries, making them stick longer than they should.
• Pausing, reflecting on wins, and sharing with friends helps loosen the grip of judgement.
• Most people are caught up in their own worlds. They probably haven’t given you a second thought.

You deserve to enjoy a walk without the weight of imaginary criticism. If you’d like to hear more about how I worked through this dyslexic moment and some candid insights on coping with judgement, make sure you listen to the full episode. The podcast player is right above—give it a click and see if any of it resonates with you.