My journey as a dyslexic adult

 From confusion to confidence, my journey as a dyslexic adult

K.Vaishali, an award winning author writes in Times of India of 3rdJuly2025.

As a dyslexic adult, I possess a unique cognitive toolkit that sets me apart. My mind excels at interconnected reasoning and abstract thinking, allowing me to quickly discern hidden connections and intricate patterns within complex, evolving systems.

This enables me to leverage my dyslexic creativity to solve challenging problems with innovative solutions. 

Dyslexia also fuels my ability to be an empathetic storeyteller. 

I can craft vivid narratives and deliver clear, engaging messages that resonate with others. Navigating an ableist world has made me resourceful and flexible, which makes me an effective team player. (Ableist - refers to discrimination or prejudice against individuals with disabilities, based on the belief that typical abilities are superior)

My professional achievements  - a fast paced career in tech and winning the Sahitya Akademy Yuva Puraskar for my book 'Homeless' -  are a direct result of dyslexia, not in spite of it.

Dyslexia is not a reflection of a person's intelligence or effort. Many highly intelligent and creative individuals, including successful entrepreneurs, scientists and artists are dylexic. 

Dyslexia is not something a person can 'grow out of.'

Early detection and remedial education help dyslexic individuals learn strategies to improve their writing and reading skills. 

Dyslexia is a learning disability that primarily affects reading and writing skills due to difficulties in processing language.

The effects of dyslexia are not confined to the young in the schools or colleges. Adults too are affected by dyslexia. 

Being a dyslexic adult means adjusting to awkward, embarassing and at times frightening situations. You don't remember names. You have difficulty in reading. You find it difficult to catch the right bus and proceed correctly to your destination. 

It's harder to get diagnosed with dyslexia as an adult. Mind you, at the age of 20, you could legally drink, drive and consent to sex, you can't take the dyslexia assessment without your parent's signature in a Govt. Hospital.