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How a Change in Perspective Can Redefine Success For Children With Dyslexia



Woman tutoring young child

Ever heard the saying "Perception is reality"? Well, I believe it is so true. The way we see things, the lens through which we view the world, and how we interpret experiences, all play a significant role in shaping our day-to-day lives. 


Perspective can be the difference between finding joy in the mundane or feeling perpetually weighed down by life's challenges. It can transform our understanding of ourselves and our potential, instilling a profound sense of purpose and determination.


The power of perspective is especially relevant when overcoming challenges and defining what success means to us. In the face of adversity, it can feel easier to succumb to defeat and self-pity. However, shifting our perspective can reframe these challenges as opportunities for growth and self-discovery. This transformative power is particularly poignant for us as parents raising children with Dyslexia.


Far too often, Dyslexia is viewed as a disadvantage, a stumbling block on the path to achieving success. Yet, if we shift our perspective, we will begin to see it not as a deficit but as a unique strength that can help us redefine and achieve success on our own terms.


Redefining success for children with dyslexia is empowering. In this post, we will discuss some practical and actionable strategies, including:


  • Calling for a shift in perspective

  • Fostering resilience and redefining notions of success

  • Advocating for viewing dyslexia as a potential advantage rather than a limitation

  • Emphasising the influence of perspective on mindset and outcomes

  • Redefining success as fulfilling one's potential and living a meaningful life

  • Encouraging and embracing children's unique strengths


Understanding Dyslexia: Redefining Learning Challenges


Dyslexia, a learning difference believed to affect up to 25% of the population, has long been perceived to hinder academic success. This perception is largely due to the mainstream school system's emphasis on traditional learning methods and standardized testing, which overlooks the unique strengths and abilities of children with Dyslexia.


However, by changing our perspective on Dyslexia, we have the power to redefine these learning challenges. Dyslexia is not a measure of intelligence or potential. In fact, many people with Dyslexia possess unique cognitive abilities that allow them to think creatively, visualize complex systems, and see patterns that others often miss. Recognizing and nurturing these strengths can lead to extraordinary success in various fields.

The key lies in understanding Dyslexia not as a disability but as a different way of processing information. This shift in perspective alone can transform Dyslexia from a learning challenge into a potential advantage.


The Dyslexic Mindset: The Strength in Seeing Differently


The Dyslexic mindset offers a unique perspective that can be a powerful asset if harnessed correctly. This mindset is characterized by innovative thinking, problem-solving abilities, and a knack for seeing the 'big picture.' It is not a deficit but a different way of processing and understanding the world.


For example, consider entrepreneurship, a realm that has brought me great success in my career. It requires creativity, resilience, and the ability to think outside the box - all traits commonly found in people like me with Dyslexia. Shifting my own perspective allowed me to view these traits not as byproducts of a learning difficulty but as invaluable strengths that help drive my success.

By understanding and embracing the Dyslexic mindset, we help our children discover and harness their unique strengths. This change in perspective empowers us and our children to overcome challenges, redefine notions of success, and, ultimately, reach our full potential.


Shifting Perspective: From Challenges to Strengths


When we shift our perspective on Dyslexia from focusing on the challenges to also recognizing the strengths, we redefine our understanding of success and our path towards it.


Instead of perceiving Dyslexia as a barrier, we can choose to view it as a unique cognitive ability that can enrich our children's lives and future careers. We can focus on nurturing their strengths and leveraging them to achieve their goals. This shift in perspective can help lead them to a more fulfilling and successful life as they begin to understand that Dyslexia does not define them, but rather, it enriches who they are.

Our perspective shapes our mindset, and our mindset, in turn, influences our outcomes and reality. If our children perceive Dyslexia as a hindrance, they will limit themselves and their potential. However, if they see it as a unique strength, they will unlock a wealth of opportunities and possibilities.


In many ways, success is a matter of perspective. It is not solely about achieving societal standards, academic norms or expectations but about fulfilling our potential and living a meaningful and satisfying life. By embracing your child's unique strengths and harnessing the power of mindset, they can overcome challenges, redefine success, and reach their full potential. Dyslexia does not define a child. Instead, it offers a unique perspective that can enrich their lives and propel them towards success.


You've got this!


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Subscribe to receive my Weekly One email. Each week, you'll receive one practical, step-by-step action to shift the dial on your child's mindset, confidence, and self-esteem. It's completely free and 100% actionable. 




Written by Bernadette Haigh
Bernadette Haigh is the Founder of Daring Dyslexic and host of the Doing Dyslexia Differently Podcast. She is on a mission to redefine what it means to grow up with dyslexia. Bernadette offers a fresh and unique perspective by focusing on mindset, confidence, and self-esteem – areas she knows all too well impact a person's potential long after conquering their academic challenges. You can find Bernadette on Instagram, LinkedIn, Youtube and her podcast on Spotify, and other great players.

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  • Spotify

Join The Daring Dyslexic Community

Subscribe to receive my Weekly One email. Each week, you'll receive one practical, step-by-step action to shift the dial on your child's mindset, confidence, and self-esteem. It's completely free and 100% actionable. 

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