Can you relate - What Does It Mean to Be Dyslexic?

Dyslexia is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects the way the brain processes written and spoken language. It’s not a sign of low intelligence or laziness, but rather a difference in how the brain is wired. Dyslexia can make certain tasks—like reading, writing, and spelling—especially challenging, even for someone who is highly intelligent and hardworking.

Let’s be clear: dyslexia is not a spectrum you can slide in and out of. You either are dyslexic or you are not. It’s a condition identified through a specific set of diagnostic criteria. People who claim to be “a little dyslexic” or “dyslexic on demand” to justify mistakes or gain an advantage are misrepresenting what dyslexia actually is—and it’s both frustrating and hurtful to those who live with the condition every day.

The Real Daily Challenges of Dyslexia

For someone with dyslexia, even the most routine tasks can require extra effort. These challenges include:

1. Reading Fatigue: Reading takes more time and energy because the brain struggles to connect letters and sounds. Imagine running a marathon every time you pick up a book.
2. Spelling and Grammar Issues: Even familiar words can be difficult to spell correctly. It’s not about carelessness—it’s about how the brain processes language.
3. Memory and Sequencing: Dyslexic individuals may find it hard to remember instructions or recall sequences like phone numbers or directions.
4. Navigating Systems: Tasks like filling out forms, proofreading documents, or even sending a quick text can feel overwhelming.
5. Social Stigma: The misconception that dyslexia equals laziness or incompetence adds emotional stress. Many dyslexic people overcompensate by working harder to prove themselves.

Example: A dyslexic professional might spend hours ensuring an email is grammatically correct because they worry about being judged. While their work ethic is admirable, this process can drain time and mental energy.

The Problem with Misusing the Term Dyslexic

Claiming to be dyslexic without a diagnosis trivializes the real struggles of those who face these challenges daily. It’s not a convenient excuse for carelessness or a way to sidestep accountability. This misuse can undermine the credibility of genuine dyslexic individuals and make it harder for them to be taken seriously.

For example:

Someone who says, “I’m a little dyslexic” after misspelling a word might think it’s harmless, but it downplays the effort and resilience required by actual dyslexic people.

When individuals falsely claim dyslexia for accommodations—like extra time on tests—it can breed skepticism and make it harder for those with legitimate needs to get support.

Why Respecting the Reality of Dyslexia Matters

Dyslexia comes with unique challenges, but it also brings unique strengths, like creativity, problem-solving, and outside-the-box thinking. However, these strengths often shine only after a dyslexic individual has worked through systemic barriers and societal misunderstandings.

By trivializing or misrepresenting dyslexia, we risk dismissing the real experiences of millions of people. Advocacy groups like #MadebyDyslexia and thought leaders such as Sir #RichardBranson have worked hard to raise awareness about both the challenges and the strengths of dyslexia. Their efforts emphasize that dyslexia should be recognized and respected, not misused or misunderstood.

A Call to Action

If you don’t have dyslexia, don’t claim it lightly. Instead:

• Educate yourself: Learn what dyslexia really is, including its challenges and strengths.
• Show respect: Recognize the effort it takes for dyslexic individuals to succeed in environments not designed for them.
• Advocate for inclusivity: Support workplaces, schools, and communities that provide accommodations for those with dyslexia.

For those who are dyslexic, know this:

Your way of thinking is a strength, even if the world doesn’t always see it that way. The challenges you face are real, but so is your potential to make a difference. And for those who aren’t dyslexic? Respect starts with understanding. Let’s give dyslexia—and the people who live with it every day—the recognition it deserves.