3 Tips For Starting A Business: Dyslexic Edition

Ever wonder if dyslexia could be a game-changer in business? This episode dives into what it's really like running a company when your mind works a bit differently. If you've thought about starting something of your own or you’re already in the thick of it, you’ll find plenty of inspiration here.

This is the first of four special episodes about dyslexic entrepreneurs. We’ll cover the big lessons learned over 16+ years in business. We look at mindset tips, surprising statistics, and why it’s smart to embrace the unique ways our brains function.

Dyslexia as an Entrepreneurial Advantage

Dyslexia is often seen as a challenge. But did you know 41% or more of entrepreneurs are thought to be dyslexic? That's an impressive statistic.

It suggests dyslexia may not be a weakness at all. Instead, it could be the very thing that helps us spark new ideas and build thriving businesses. Many of us with dyslexia think in pictures or leaps, which creates a knack for problem-solving and innovation.

Why Mindset Matters

Building a business goes hand in hand with building confidence in yourself. We all face roadblocks—especially when learning how to juggle finances, marketing, and team management. The real battle involves trusting you can figure it all out.

I’ve learned that working with my mind instead of against it is key. In the podcast, I mentioned something that sums it up:

“When I started recognising the power of my dyslexic thinking, it changed the whole direction of my business.”

Catching negative self-talk early is vital. One way is to remind yourself of the successes you’ve already had. This is where mindset matters most. It's about harnessing the energy that comes from doing what you love, rather than letting doubt creep in.

Turning Struggles into Strengths

It’s tempting to see dyslexia as a disadvantage if you fixate on traditional skills like spelling and structuring presentations. But the workplace has shifted. Soft skills like creativity and communication stand out more every day.

If you’ve struggled with reading or writing, you may have found clever ways to compensate. These hacks often translate directly into business solutions. Like offloading tasks that just aren’t your strong suit, so you can focus on your genius zone. If you’re thinking about delegation or new systems, consider:

• Voice-to-text software for emails and content
• Project management tools that keep ideas clear
• Support from a mentor or coach who understands dyslexia

Find what fits and run with it. There's no one-size-fits-all method.

Taking Bold Risks

Dyslexia often goes hand in hand with taking a step outside your comfort zone. It might be because we’re used to working around limitations, so risk doesn’t feel as scary.

This boldness pays off in entrepreneurship. When a new idea pops up, dyslexic thinkers are usually ready to jump in. That spirit can push you to try alternative marketing strategies, connect with new networks, or pivot quickly when things shift.

Sure, not every risk pans out. But it’s through trial and error that we discover real breakthroughs. Nobody who succeeded in business did it by playing it completely safe.

Lessons from the 16+ Year Journey

Reflecting on more than a decade of running a business, it all comes down to learning how to trust yourself and your mind. Sometimes it’s scary, other times it’s exhilarating, but it’s never dull.

The plan for these four episodes is to shine a light on different aspects of dyslexic entrepreneurship. We’ll talk about practical workarounds, mindset shifts, and even a few stories of epic failures that led to even bigger wins.

• Authenticity is your strongest currency
• Experimentation is key, especially when traditional routes don’t fit
• Connecting with others who get dyslexia is priceless
• Building trust in yourself takes time—but it’s worth it

Key Takeaways

• Dyslexia can be an unexpected superpower in business
• Focusing on how your mind works best beats forcing it into a mould
• Embracing risk often leads to the biggest breakthroughs

Curious to hear the full conversation and get a deeper look at how dyslexia shapes entrepreneurship? Listen to the entire episode right at the top of this page. You won't want to miss the upcoming parts of this exciting series.