Stuttering is a funny thing. On any given day, it can feel awkward, frustrating, confusing, empowering, and even joyful – all at the same time.
It depends on the moment, the people around you, and where you are on your own journey.
When I was younger, I hated it.
More than anything, I just wanted to fit in. I wanted to be the “normal” kid who could answer a question without getting stuck, introduce himself without panic, or order food without rehearsing it ten times in his head. Every block and repetition felt embarrassing, and trying to explain it to people felt even harder.
Today, it’s a different story. I genuinely love my stutter!
I’ve stopped fighting it and started owning it. These days, people don’t laugh at me (well… most don’t). They laugh with me. And somewhere along the way, the thing I spent years trying to hide became the thing that shaped my career.
I’ve had the privilege of speaking on stages around the world, proving to myself that a stutter and public speaking aren’t opposites – they can coexist beautifully.
But whether I’m on stage, in a boardroom, or simply chatting over coffee, one thing hasn’t changed: most people still don’t really understand what stuttering is.
So, let’s change that.
Here’s what you should know about this wonderfully misunderstood gift.
What is Stuttering?
How common is stuttering?
About 1% of adults stutter, which means you interact with people who stutter every single day, even if you don’t realise it. Many become very good at hiding it!
Can you grow out of a stutter?
Some people do, many don’t. I believe adulthood stuttering isn’t about “outgrowing” it, rather understanding and learning how to work with it.
Is stuttering just saying words slowly or repeating sounds?
No. That’s just the visible part. Stuttering is neurological and often involves blocks, tension, anticipation, and timing issues inside the brain.
Is stuttering more common in males or females?
It’s more common in males, especially in adulthood. The reasons are still being studied, and recovery rates differ between genders.
Can you control your stutter?
Yes! I am proof that you can. Please remember that for me, this control often comes at the cost of feeling mentally and physically exhausted.
My friend repeats words sometimes, does that mean they stutter?
No. Everyone repeats words under pressure or excitement. Stuttering is persistent and involuntary, not occasional hesitation.
Is stuttering a mental illness?
No. It’s neurological, not psychological, though anxiety can make it louder.
Does stuttering affect intelligence or learning?
Absolutely not!
Does stuttering make dating or social life harder?
It can, if you let it. I told my partners from the beginning and gave them permission to laugh with me! When I took ownership, people respected me more and some women even said they found it attractive!
Is stuttering hereditary?
There’s a genetic component however these genetics don’t decide how powerful your voice can be.