About Adapted Dyslexics

The articles in this series, reproduced from the Adapted Dyslexics Checklist booklet by Chris Cole, provides information about dyslexia and what it means to be an adapted dyslexic. For many, reading this can be the first time they feel truly understood. If you ever feel overwhelmed or need support while reading this, please know that specialist help is available. Refer to the contact details on the Connect section of the website.

About Adapted Dyslexics

Adapted dyslexics are dyslexic individuals who have learned to operate effectively in education, work, leadership and entrepreneurial roles, often without formal identification or support.  They typically read, write and communicate well enough to meet expectations and perform at a high level. This is not because the system fits them, but because they have learned to work around it.  

Adapted dyslexics rely on a range of cognitive strategies to manage ongoing mismatches between their way of thinking and system demands. At the same time, they often leverage strong capabilities such as problem-solving, pattern recognition, strategic thinking, relational reasoning and innovation.

Many adapted dyslexics do not realise they are dyslexic. Instead, they notice that tasks involving reading, writing, studying or processing information may require more effort and energy than expected. They may observe that others seem to manage these demands more easily, particularly in academic or information-heavy contexts.

What does 'adapted dyslexic' mean?

The term adapted dyslexic is used in this booklet to describe dyslexic individuals who have developed effective strategies to navigate and succeed within systems not designed for dyslexic thinking.

This group is often referred to in research as ‘compensated dyslexics’, estimated to represent around 25% of the dyslexic population.

The term adapted dyslexic is used here intentionally. It highlights the ongoing adaptation required while also recognising the strengths of dyslexic thinking that make this possible.

Photo by Sincerely Media on Unsplash

About this series

This booklet draws on my experience as an accountant, an adapted dyslexic, more than ten years working in the dyslexia and neurodiversity sector, and extensive conversations with other adapted dyslexics.  

Not everything in this booklet will reflect your experience. Adapted dyslexics are not a single type. While core dyslexic strengths tend to be consistent, the challenges associated with dyslexic thinking vary widely.

 In my experience, this variation is shaped by the adaptive strategies individuals developed over time. These are influenced by factors such as:

·        the level of parent or adult support during childhood

·        individual executive functioning profiles

·        when dyslexia was identified, whether in childhood or later in adulthood.

If this material resonates or challenges your thinking, you are welcome to get in touch and share your perspective.

| hope you find it useful.

Chris

(she/her/dyslexic)