Transforming Learning Disabilities into Unforeseen Strengths
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Chapter 1: The Early Struggles
In my youth, the term "thick" was a label I often faced.
My peers branded me as such due to my struggles with reading and writing, especially when it came to algebra. This slow reading pace placed me at a disadvantage in every subject. The constant reminders of being "thick" from those around me only made matters worse.
I was unaware of my learning disability, and so were my teachers.
A Moment of Embarrassment
At around fourteen, I was asked to read excerpts from Shakespeare in front of my English class.
As I stood there, the words on the page became an incomprehensible blur. The heat rose to my face as I struggled to find my voice. I could hear some quiet laughter behind me and was soon told to sit down, leaving me engulfed in humiliation. The realization that I couldn't perform a task that others found simple was deeply painful.
A Teacher's Unexpected Support
After class, the teacher asked me to remain behind.
I anticipated a reprimand, yet he surprised me. Known as "Piggy," he bore a gentle smile that only someone who has experienced humiliation could share. “We need to find a way to support your reading,” he said, before pulling out a notepad. He granted me the freedom to choose any book from the school library, reassuring me that I could read wherever I wanted without scrutiny. It was a moment of kindness and understanding that I had not expected from an educator.
Books Became My Lifeline
Initially, I borrowed stories about cowboys and war, but soon I transitioned to historical novels and classic literature by authors like Thomas Hardy and Charles Dickens.
This exposure, albeit at a slower pace, provided me with a broad education and instilled in me a lifelong love of reading. I became an incessant learner, even as I grappled with the anxiety surrounding exams and the accompanying shame of results.
Overcoming the "Thick" Label
Testing was never my forte.
I struggled with the fear of being perceived as uneducated, which led me to avoid situations where I might be challenged. Business meetings became a source of anxiety due to the extensive preparation I felt was necessary to avoid embarrassment.
A Revelation at Last
In an effort to better myself, I underwent a series of psychometric evaluations.
During the session, the psychologist inquired, “Are you dyslexic?” I was unfamiliar with the term, but as he explained reading difficulties, I felt a sense of recognition. Following this, I requested to undergo dyslexia testing and, at 34, I received my diagnosis. This revelation clarified many of my struggles, though it did not change the fact that I felt less educated compared to my peers.
A Game-Changer on a Flight
While flying from London to Washington DC, I read an article in Time magazine discussing a successful architectural firm that only hired dyslexic architects.
This realization was exhilarating; it was uplifting to know that individuals like me were valued for our creative potential. I celebrated this newfound pride with a glass of champagne.
Understanding My Value
Coming to terms with my dyslexia transformed my perspective.
The fear of being seen as ignorant diminished when I recognized my unique qualities. I gained confidence when I began to respond to questions with, “I don’t know, but I believe that…” This shift in mindset encouraged me to share my ideas openly, something I had hesitated to do before.
The Power of Self-Perception
Embracing my identity as a creative thinker was liberating.
This shift allowed me to break free from the constraints of my previous job, where I felt I had to conform to expectations. I ventured out on my own, exploring my newfound freedom. Although I made mistakes along the way, I eventually discovered my aptitude as a performance coach, helping others gain confidence and express their true selves.
Transforming Your Life
You don’t have to be confined by past limitations.
Any negative beliefs that hold you back often stem from previous experiences, but you have the power to change. Here’s a simple guide for transformation:
- Decide Who You Want to Be: Focus on the type of person you aspire to be and how you want others to perceive you.
- Monitor Your Emotions: Pay attention to your feelings in various situations, as these emotions drive your behavior.
- Shift Your Feelings: Identify negative feelings and visualize how you would behave if you felt the opposite. Practice this new mindset continually.
In the talk "Shining A Light On Learning Disability: One Strength At a Time," Ivan Solano discusses how understanding and embracing learning disabilities can uncover individual strengths and creativity.
In the video "Amazon Interview Question: Tell me about a situation where you had to solve a difficult problem," insights are shared on problem-solving approaches that can be beneficial for anyone facing challenges in their professional life.