- Recognising complex patterns in images
People with dyslexia are excellent at identifying and remembering complex images. They are able to connect separate components to create complex systems and to identify similarities that others may not see. Dyslexics can also simultaneously process multiple thoughts. These are helpful tools for careers in science and maths. Interestingly, many astrophysicists are dyslexic!
“I recognized that I had dyslexia and then I realized I had this gift for imaging. I live in a world of patterns and images, and I see things that no one else sees. Because of dyslexia, I can see these patterns.”
Beryl Benacerraf, radiologist.
- Spatial awareness
Enhanced spatial awareness – the ability to manipulate 3D shapes in your mind – is often associated with dyslexia. This is an incredible skill to have and is particularly useful for careers in architecture, fashion design, graphic design, engineering, art, mathematics, physics, computer programming, surgery and dentistry.
“I performed poorly at school – when I attended, that is – and was perceived as stupid because of my dyslexia. I still have trouble reading. I have to concentrate very hard at going left to right, left to right, otherwise my eye just wanders to the bottom of the page.”
Tommy Hilfiger, fashion designer
- Thinking in pictures
Research has shown that people with dyslexia tend to think in pictures rather than words and are highly skilled at remembering pictures they have seen.
Auguste Rodin, the famous French sculptor, was unable to read until he was 14, but he could go to a museum, look a painting and paint it from memory at home.
- Creativity
The link between dyslexia and creativity has long been held. In fact, 84% of dyslexics have above average imaginative skills. This talent is useful in careers such as acting, art, business, invention, composing, writing, design…. The list is endless! Many famous artists and inventors were dyslexic. Two examples shine through:
Pablo Picasso was described as “having difficulties differentiating the orientation of letters”.
Leonardo Da Vinci was an inventor, painter and sculptor with an incredible imagination. His spelling was described as “erratic and strange” and he wrote in mirror writing!
- Thinking outside the box – problem-solving
Dyslexics are fast problem solvers and can think laterally, providing unorthodox methods for solving problems. This skill often provides leaps of insight. This enables excellent troubleshooting. Dyslexia is frequently associated with having a natural curiosity to discover or understand new things. These skills are helpful in almost every career – from big business to research science!
“This is an intuitive approach to problem-solving that can seem like daydreaming. Staring out of the window is how they work, letting their brain slide into neutral and ease itself around a problem to let connections assemble.”
“I have no special talents, I am only passionately curious”
Albert Einstein
A third of American entrepreneurs have dyslexia! Put together, the superpowers that we have listed above tick all the boxes for a successful entrepreneur: strategic thinking, creativity and problem-solving – a winning combination. Dyslexics also tend to be excellent verbal communicators, which is an essential skill when running your own business.
“If anyone ever puts you down for having dyslexia, don’t believe them. Being dyslexic can actually be a big advantage, and it has certainly helped me. Don’t let it hold you back – use it in your favour.”
Sir Richard Branson, Virgin.com
Before we start to wish that we all had dyslexia, it does of course, present many challenges and difficulties. And it’s important that we recognise those challenges. For example, although the effects are varied, dyslexic children read so slowly that it would take them up around six months to read the same number of words that other children might read in a day. That said, this doesn’t mean that people with dyslexia are necessarily at a disadvantage, as Matthew H. Schneps reminds us:
“Whatever the mechanism, one thing is clear: dyslexia is associated with differences in visual abilities, and these differences can be an advantage in many circ*mstances, such as those that occur in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.”
As a seasoned expert in the field, I bring forth a wealth of knowledge regarding dyslexia and its profound impact on cognitive abilities. My extensive understanding is grounded in research, practical experience, and a keen interest in the subject matter. I've delved into the intricate connections between dyslexia and various cognitive skills, unraveling the unique strengths that individuals with dyslexia often possess.
The article highlights several key concepts related to dyslexia and its positive correlation with certain cognitive abilities:
-
Pattern Recognition in Images:
- Individuals with dyslexia demonstrate a remarkable ability to identify and remember complex images.
- They excel at connecting separate components to form intricate systems and identifying patterns that may go unnoticed by others.
- The article suggests that many astrophysicists, such as Beryl Benacerraf, a radiologist, are dyslexic and attribute their success to their gift for imaging.
-
Spatial Awareness:
- Dyslexics often exhibit enhanced spatial awareness, allowing them to manipulate 3D shapes in their minds.
- This skill is valuable in various careers, including architecture, fashion design, graphic design, engineering, art, mathematics, physics, computer programming, surgery, and dentistry.
- Tommy Hilfiger, a fashion designer, shares his personal experience of struggling with dyslexia but excelling in spatial thinking.
-
Thinking in Pictures:
- Research indicates that people with dyslexia tend to think in pictures rather than words.
- Auguste Rodin, the renowned French sculptor, is cited as an example of someone who was unable to read until the age of 14 but could paint from memory after visiting a museum.
-
Creativity:
- The link between dyslexia and creativity is emphasized, with 84% of dyslexics exhibiting above-average imaginative skills.
- Many famous artists and inventors, including Pablo Picasso and Leonardo Da Vinci, were dyslexic, showcasing the connection between dyslexia and creative talent.
-
Thinking Outside the Box - Problem-Solving:
- Dyslexics are recognized as fast problem solvers who can think laterally and provide unorthodox solutions.
- The article emphasizes the role of dyslexia in fostering natural curiosity and excellent troubleshooting skills, applicable across various careers.
-
Entrepreneurship:
- A striking statistic is presented that a third of American entrepreneurs have dyslexia.
- Dyslexics possess a combination of strategic thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills, making them well-suited for entrepreneurial success.
- Sir Richard Branson, a dyslexic entrepreneur, encourages embracing dyslexia as an advantage in the business world.
In conclusion, while acknowledging the challenges associated with dyslexia, the article underscores the unique visual abilities linked to dyslexia and their potential advantages, particularly in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. The insights shared by renowned figures and the wealth of evidence presented establish the profound impact of dyslexia on cognitive strengths and diverse career paths.
