Dyslexia and Me: Why Different is the Best Way to Be
Living with dyslexia has been one of the biggest challenges in my life, but it’s also been one of my greatest teachers. People often assume that dyslexia is all about “struggling to read and spell.” And yes, that’s a part of it. But in reality, it seeps into so many little moments of my day; from struggling to pull out the word I want mid-sentence, to mixing up letters when I’m tired, or needing to triple-check emails before they go out. As an educator, this might sound like a mountain of difficulties to overcome. But here’s the truth: dyslexia hasn’t made me a weaker teacher, it’s made me a stronger one.
The challenges I face daily
In the classroom (and even now, running Kindling Minds), dyslexia can show up in unexpected ways. Sometimes it’s forgetting the spelling of a word I’ve written a hundred times before. Sometimes it’s the panic of knowing exactly what I want to say but not being able to get the words out quick enough. Other times, it’s about processing written instructions, what takes someone else seconds might take me minutes of rereading. From the outside, these things might look like obstacles. And honestly, they are. But they’ve also shaped the way I approach teaching and supporting neurodivergent learners.
Why dyslexia makes me unique as an educator
Because I’ve experienced these challenges firsthand, I understand what it feels like to be the child who learns differently, who needs extra time, or who feels left behind. Dyslexia has given me empathy and creativity in ways no textbook ever could. I design lessons with visuals, hands-on tools, and alternative strategies because I needed those things. I break tasks down into smaller, achievable steps because I know how overwhelming “big tasks” can feel. I celebrate mistakes and encourage laughter in learning because I’ve been the one embarrassed by mine. The truth is, dyslexia has made me the educator I am today. It’s why I can connect with my learners on such a deep level, they know I get it.
Why different is the best way to be
For a long time, I saw dyslexia as a flaw. Something that made me less. But now, I see it as my superpower. Dyslexia pushes me to think differently, problem-solve creatively, and adapt in ways that others don’t even consider. And that’s the beauty of neurodiversity: being different doesn’t mean being less. It means bringing new perspectives, new ideas, and new ways of seeing the world.
The importance of Dyslexia Awareness Week Scotland
That’s why Dyslexia Awareness Week Scotland is so close to my heart. It’s not just about raising awareness of the challenges dyslexic individuals face, it’s about changing the conversation. Too often, the focus is on what we can’t do, rather than the creativity, resilience, and unique problem-solving skills we bring. This week is a chance to challenge misconceptions, highlight strengths, and remind every child, parent, and teacher that dyslexia is not a limitation, it’s a different way of thinking. When we raise awareness, we make space for understanding. When we make space for understanding, we create environments where every learner can thrive. At Kindling Minds, I remind my learners (and myself!) that “different” is not something to hide, it’s something to celebrate. Because different is what makes you you, and you are exactly what this world needs.
My Final Thought: Dyslexia doesn’t define me, but it does shape the way I see, teach, and support others. And honestly? I wouldn’t change it. Because being different is the best way to be. And during Dyslexia Awareness Week Scotland, that’s the message I hope we can all raise a little louder together.
