Dyslexic Strengths

Cometh the hour, cometh the man …. or woman.

Humans have survived as a result of their ability to adapt to their environment. Neurodiversity flourishes because of this need for different ways of thinking in order to cope with change. Neurodiverse individuals may have ASC characteristics and display, for example: an attention to detail and an ability to hyperfocus. Those who experience traits of ADHD will prefer to look at the bigger picture, will follow unusual angles as a result of their wide-ranging interests, and bring an energy and enthusiasm to everything they do. Teams of individuals who have different ways of thinking, will be stronger than groups who have similar thought processes.

What talents do these successful dyslexics believe they bring to the table?

1. An appreciation of the value of teamwork.

Pip Jamieson – Technical entrepreneur. ‘I know I’m not good at everything, I delegate because I’ve always had to.’

Dyslexics know they have an unusual mix of strengths and weaknesses. They will be well aware of their weaknesses and will have always depended on others for support. They understand that in certain situations they need to ask for help, and will be happy to work collaboratively.

2. Pragmatism.

Bill Amberg – Designer. ‘I’m practical and pragmatic: I don’t get over-dramatic.’

Dyslexics will not want to draw unnecessary attention to themselves: they tend to get on with things, and keep their heads down.

3. Empathy. 

Obi Ohaka Daniel – Social worker. ‘I understand about learning differently and can empathise with the people I work with and their problems.’

Educational settings focus on areas that are challenging for dyslexics: spelling, reading aloud, structuring and writing essays, neat presentation and memorising screes of random information: times tables, French vocabulary and the spelling of scientific words. As a result of their struggles in school, individuals with dyslexia can empathise with the difficulties of others.

4. Problem-solving ability.

Pete Cohen – Author. ‘I’m obsessed with finding solutions to problems.’

The individual will have been forced to think laterally throughout their life in order to circumnavigate their personal difficulties, and will have developed a strong solution-based approach to challenge.

5. A work ethic.

Jayson Lilley – Artist. ‘I still work really hard at everything I do.’ 

Dyslexics understand the value of effort and hard work; they don’t coast or take anything for granted.

6. Patience.

Gosia Palys-Dudek – Coder. ‘Dyslexia has taught me to be patient. Behind my successes are hours of hard work, tiredness and tears.’

The person with dyslexia knows that there are no ‘quick fixes.’ They are certain to come across barriers: they will not expect anything to come easily. 

7. Passion.

Charlotte Edmonds – Choreographer. ‘Choreography is my creative outlet; I put all my energy and passion into it. It’s all-encompassing.’

Dyslexics often have passionate interests or hobbies that they convert into lifetime careers.

8. People skills.

Mark Grotefeld – Music executive. ‘Being charming is very important for dyslexics: charm will get you everywhere.’

The individual will have had to rely on the kindness and support of others from an early age. They will have developed a wide range of social and ‘people’ skills.

9. Visual thinking.

Rashid Phoenix – Stuntman. ‘I work in my imagination and I visualise the stunt.’

An individual’s weakness with words, is often balanced by visual strengths. The dyslexic may find it easier to work with images, diagrams, models or visualisation.

10. Creativity.

Paul Smith – Fashion designer. ‘Dyslexics like myself, are more lateral thinking, more open and more creative.’

Individuals with dyslexia dominate creative industries because of their innovative ideas and ability to think outside the box. 

11. Skills of observation.

Steven Naismith – Footballer. ‘I intuitively know where to be on the pitch. I am sharp at noticing things.’

The dyslexic individual can picture scenarios, anticipate what will happen next and how a situation will play out. They make good sportsmen and women because of this intuitive feel for the game.

12. Determination.

James Kinross – Surgeon. ‘To succeed you need to be really determined. I don’t give up easily.’

Anyone who experiences dyslexia will have learnt to be resilient: they know that personal effort is the key to success.