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Reflections

Every now and then something happens which just stops you in your tracks. Makes you think about what you’re doing in life, are you making the most of it. This year started well, very happy and lots of laughter. As the year has gone on, that's been chipped away, chuck by chuck. What's that saying 'change is as good as a rest', well for me only when you’re in the mind space for it. After a few months of what feels like treading water I now need to reflect. During this time my dyslexia has gone into overdrive- and I'm not just talking about the reading/ writing side- I'm talking about the things people don't straight away link to dyslexia- slow processing of information, anxiety, and lack of confidence. I try not to use it as an excuse publicly, but I internalise it, blame it for the way I feel. Recently there's been so much going on that it’s all built up to almost breaking point. That's the wakeup call- realising that I can't keep going without changing something. Reflection is an important thing, but you do need to be in the right head space and willing to objectively review the situation, otherwise your focus on the negatives.

So what have I leant from reflecting on the last few months:

  1. Life is too short- yes I know it’s a cliche, but it's true. 
  2. Don’t waste it by doing something you’re not suited to 
  3. Talk to others about how you feel, not easy I know, and they might be too honest with you! But talking does helps. 
  4. Create time to do the things you love, a hobby, gardening, that creative project you've been meaning to do 
  5. Be open to opportunities, if there aren't any- go out and create them.


So I've taken my own advice (…well number 4 anyway, I’ll work on rest over the next few months!), and taken a paint brush to an old chest of drawers- shabby chic style. That’s one main positive aspect I’ve gain from having dyslexia, I’m creative and love doing anything which involves using my imagination. That’s where I’m in my comfort zone and I haven’t been using this skill recently. Just spending time giving this piece of furniture a new lease of life, searching for new handles and using my hands has helped me to escape the build-up of anxiety and give me space to think more openly.

Oh and I've decided at the moment to concentrate on number 4 – and work on an image/logo for this blog...watch this space!


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