NLP Academy Forums

Hi

I’m mentoring a young entrepreneur (The Princes Trust) who tells me he is hugely dyslexic and not very bright. My observation is that he’s shy and intimidated by what he percieves to be people who are more important than him (calling the tax office was a stretch for that reason alone).

My role is not that of a coach although much of what I do is in fact coaching (linguistically) so I’m wary of using overt NLP interventions. Also, we are required to meet in public places which prevents us from engaging in physical exercises.

I bought the book ‘the gift of dislexia’ and scanned it for pointers and get a sense that it’s not the book for me in this situation as I’m not a professional seeking to work him through his dyslexia. I may have this wrong as I’m not entirely sure what I should be looking for, so pointers of what section to go back to would be helpful if anyone’s read this book and understands how my situation might relate.

I use language to build confidence and I use texting to remind of meetings and agreed actions but it seems pretty basic and I’d hate to not give him the best chance. Does anyone have any advice on how I can support him further?

Thanks

S

I’m not an expert on dyslexia but i do have a number of ‘dyslexic’ colleagues and students. What I’d suggest is that he get a proper assessment and support with his dyslexia through his employer or college. Some of the best students we have (I teach on a masters course) have been diagnosed with dyslexia and with appropriate support have produced excellent work.  There are still debates about what dyslexia is but for now I’d suggest that it may be best for you to think of it as being something which may have all sorts of meanings for this person. For example I’d be interested to what extent dyslexia might be the basis for limiting beliefs ‘I’m dyslexic and therfore….....,’ or perhaps linked with low achievement and low self esteem. Many people with dyslexia report that until this was recognised they had just been told, or had come to believe that they were ‘stupid’ which could clearly affect self esteem.
You also need to remember he is a lot more than ‘just’ a dyslexic, he will have a whole range of skills ad abilities which are unique to him. Some people also say that there is another side to dylexia linked to exceptional talents and ablities so I wonder if he has found what these are for him yet…...!
All the best.

I’ve put together a visual spelling pack. I’m road testing it on dyslexic children who pick the technique up really quickly. Its up to them to have the motivation to keep going with their own learning after that some have, some slip. If you think it may give him a confidence boost PM me i’ll send you it

I’m mentoring a young entrepreneur (The Princes Trust) who tells me he is hugely dyslexic and not very bright. My observation is that he’s shy and intimidated by what he percieves to be people who are more important than him (calling the tax office was a stretch for that reason alone).

Hi Susie,

I would use your NLP skills to help build his general confidence.  When the young entrepeneaur has choice with his state it is likely dyslexia wont be such an issue for him. Then if he wishes you can work with dyslexia\\

M

Thanks everyone. He’s gone to ground at the moment so slowly working, as Michael suggests, at developing a relationship and building his confidence. I’ll come back to individual advice and offers of info soon! Thanks again, S