Why Starting Feels Like Climbing a Mountain
Ever stared at a task so big it felt impossible to even begin? For dyslexics, this isn’t just a fleeting feeling—it’s a constant challenge.
Imagine standing at the base of a massive mountain. You have no map, climbing gear, or idea how to start. That’s how initiating tasks can feel when you’re neurodivergent. Your brain sees the whole mountain, not just the first step, and panic sets in. What if I fail? What if I can’t do it all? These thoughts snowball until starting feels heavier than the task itself.
Take John, for example. He’s got two months to complete a major project, but every time he sits down to start, his mind spirals: Where do I even begin? Days turn into weeks, and the project still looms, untouched.
This isn’t laziness or procrastination—it’s how the dyslexic brain processes complex tasks. Starting isn’t just hard; it’s paralyzing. And the longer you wait, the bigger the task seems.
Sound familiar? Let’s fix that.
Start Tiny to Start Strong
Here’s the truth: you don’t need to conquer the mountain in one go. You just need to take one small step.
The secret? Mini-tasks.
Think of them as breadcrumbs leading you forward. They’re tiny, manageable actions that get you moving without overwhelming your brain.
Examples of Mini-Tasks:
Open your project folder.
Write a single bullet point or idea.
Check deadlines or clarify expectations.
Let’s go back to John. Instead of tackling his entire project, he starts with one small action: creating an outline. Suddenly, the mountain feels less intimidating. That one step leads to another, building momentum and confidence.
It’s like cooking a complex meal. You don’t whip up the whole dish at once. First, you chop veggies. Then, you prep sauces. Step by step, the meal comes together. Tasks work the same way—one action at a time.
Small Wins Lead to Big Progress
The key mindset shift here? Progress is power.
Instead of focusing on the entire mountain, focus on the first foothold. With every tiny action, you’re building momentum. And once you’re moving, it’s easier to keep going.
Your brain isn’t broken—it’s just wired differently. Let’s make it work for you, starting one small step at a time.
Ready to learn more strategies for tackling tasks and building confidence? Tune into our podcast, where we dive deep into tips for dyslexic productivity, time management, and more.
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