Lessons For Dyslexic Business Owners

Welcome to another blog post about dyslexia and business. If you’ve ever felt your brilliant but busy mind racing to connect new ideas, you’re not alone. Today, I’m reflecting on the strengths and stumbling blocks that come with dyslexia when you’re running a business.

This episode highlights how traits like big-picture thinking, creativity, and intuition can power you forward. It also digs into the flipside—feeling overwhelmed by details or getting bogged down in routine tasks. If you’re keen to work with your strengths rather than fighting them, keep reading.

Why Dyslexia Sparks Creativity

Dyslexic brains often do a fantastic job of piecing together ideas in fresh ways. When I started out, I realised I could spot opportunities that others often missed. It felt like putting puzzle pieces together without even trying.

Being in business gave me a chance to turn that creative spark into something tangible. I’d see a gap in the market or an under-served audience, and I’d jump at the chance to serve them. That sense of curiosity fueled my motivation, and it still does.

Granted, creativity can sometimes mean you’re pulled in too many directions at once. But if you give those ideas enough structure, they’ll help you stand out from the crowd.

The Power of Connection and Communication

We dyslexics often rely on spoken communication. Written stuff can feel cumbersome, but talking aloud opens up whole new perspectives. I found that runs true in sales calls and networking events as well.

It’s easier to form real connections when you’re genuinely curious about people. I love to listen, ask questions, and see how I can help. That might come from a natural empathy that many dyslexics share. The more I’ve leaned into that, the more my business has grown.

Whether you’re pitching an idea or bonding with a new collaborator, a strong verbal approach can be priceless. If written reports or spreadsheets feel like a chore, delegate or use tools that simplify the process. Let your real voice shine through in face-to-face moments.

Dealing with Details and Follow-Through

Not all dyslexic traits are easy to manage. Many of us like to jump from one brilliant concept to the next without finishing the first. It happens to me all the time. I’d get carried away with a cool initiative, then forget about the grunt work.

That’s where systems come in. Whether it’s a note-taking app or a simple to-do list, making routine tasks easy is key. I also rely on reminders and voice notes to keep track of loose ends. If you leave everything to chance, details slip through the cracks and it can hurt you.

In the podcast, I recall saying:

“I love being in business and have learnt over the years what dyslexic strengths help me and which hurt me.”

This sums it up for me. Thriving in business involves knowing how to tap into your superpowers without ignoring those weaker areas.

Collaborating With the Right People

When I first started, I believed I had to learn every skill or handle every department on my own. That was stressful. Then I realised it’s fine—even smart—to bring in people who can do the things that drain me.

One of the best moves I made was hiring or partnering with those who enjoy the finer details. It freed me to focus on building relationships or brainstorming future plans. It felt like a weight off my shoulders. You don’t need to be good at everything, which is a relief.

Collaboration also means you get fresh perspectives on your creative ideas. You’ll soon realise some concepts need tweaking or might not be worth the effort. Honest feedback can keep your daydreams on track, so welcome it.

Embracing Your Dyslexic Edge

Think of dyslexia like a toolkit. You’ve got some standout gadgets—imagination, empathy, and big-picture thinking. There might be a few worn-out tools—like focus or consistent follow-through—that need sharpening. But the overall kit is full of potential.

Learning how to manage your dyslexia makes business life more rewarding. Every time you overcome a challenge or build on your strengths, you’ll see how valuable this unique mindset truly is.

If you’re worried about making mistakes along the way, that’s normal. We all slip up. The best approach is to learn from each experience and be kind to yourself. You’re not supposed to be perfect.

Key Takeaways

• Leverage your creativity to spot new opportunities.
• Use strong verbal communication to build real connections.
• Adopt simple systems or tools to handle routine tasks.
• Collaborate with people who excel at your weaker areas.
• Accept that dyslexia is a toolkit full of amazing strengths.

Remember that the podcast player is at the top of this page. If you’d like to hear the full conversation, click that play button or listen on your favourite podcast app. You’ll get more in-depth insights on how I’ve learnt to navigate dyslexia in the world of business. Whether you’re just starting out or have been running a company for years, there’s always more to discover.

Thanks for reading, and I hope you’ll tune in for the full episode. You never know which insight might lead to a breakthrough in your life or venture.