Dyslexia is a neurological difference that 1 out of 5 people have, that is included under the umbrella of nuerodivergence or nuerodiversity (other examples of nuerodivergence are Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, Tourette Syndrome, Dispraxia, etc...)
Only a small portion of the general population are formally diagnosed, and many people go through grade school without being diagnosed. Most people with Dyslexia have average or above average intelligence, and their brains process information in a way that is different from folks who are nuerotypical.
Some strengths that folks with Dyslexia have:
Critical thinking, communication, and creativity
Connecting and empathizing with others: High level of empathy, authenticity, and compassion in overcoming adversity, "I’m a people person."
Observational: ability to observe patterns and find solutions
Creative problem solving and thinking differently
Dyslexics are great communicators : explainers and teachers, showing the big picture, simplifying complex information, passionate and curious, engaging hearts and minds (how you feel and what you understand matters!)
Reasoning: understanding patterns, evaluating possibilities, and make connections nuerotypical people might not notice
I definitely utilize the majority of these skills as a birth worker.
Here are some examples:
-- While I'm teaching Hypnobirthing or group facilitating, these skills help me to be my authentic self with families to create intimacy, and to explain information in an approachable way.
-- As a midwife, I typically utilize my skills for observing patterns of contraction patterns and sensation and finding solutions for positions, massage, and partner involvement that can improve fetal positioning and comfort. At births, I also have a strong focus on clear communication and knowing that families understand their options, and have the space needed to ask questions and gather information to make informed choices.