This week, a cousin of mine, David
Rifkind, died at the early age of 51. He was a very successful real estate
promoter in Los Angeles. During our last conversation in the summer at his
house, we discussed dyslexia and its effects on our lives. It turns out that we also had that
"disability" in common. His comments expressed my feelings exactly
and hopefully can serve as an inspiration to those who have it and those who
work with them.
He enthusiastically stated that dyslexia
was the key to his success.
Specifically, he noted that his ability to think differently allowed him
to find solutions that "normal" people could not imagine. Instead of
handicapping him, it gave him a leg up. If a task needed more analytical and
less intuitional skills, he hired the appropriate person. So, dyslexia is not a
curse but a blessing in many situations.
Naturally, depending on the type of
dyslexia, other tasks can become difficult or even almost impossible. Dyslexics
require great concentration to execute specific routine tasks. On the other
hand, everybody finds certain simple jobs quite complicated. Most dyslexics
find a way, granted unconventional, to attain reasonable success in these
deficiencies. These strategies include proper scheduling, extra time, and no
multitasking, to name just a few. Ultimately, dyslexics can achieve their goals
no less successfully than others, sometimes on their own and sometimes with the help of
others. The road is not always smooth or conventional but does lead to Rome.
Depending on the level and type of
dyslexia, working with dyslexics may involve showing some flexibility and
understanding. The price is well worth it. In a rapidly changing world, every
company needs people that grasp the situation quickly and think outside the box.
So, to all those feeling frustrated by
dyslexia or using it as an excuse for failure, I suggest that you embrace it
and appreciate your unique approach to the world. Accentuate the positive,
overcome the negative and find the niche in which your special talents will
shine.
In memory of David Rifkind
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