The first steps in entrepreneurship can be both challenging and rewarding, especially for individuals with Dys. Here are five tips to guide the development of entrepreneurial skills with a focus on SLD-friendly practices.
Focus on Strengths Over Struggles
Even though neurodivergent people face more obstacles than others, they can still excel in many fields. If you are dyslexic or have other SLDs, it might be helpful for you to think about your strengths and the advantages stemming from your unique style of learning. Recognising these strengths fosters confidence and builds a foundation for entrepreneurial growth.
Use Visual Planning Tools
Not everyone can learn effectively from traditional text-heavy notes. Consider visual tools like mind maps, flowcharts, and digital boards (such as Trello or Miro) to make learning easier and more engaging. This can simplify complex ideas, making them easier to remember.
Practice with Real-Life Scenarios
Learning by doing is usually more effective than trying to memorise theory. Practical exercises, like creating a budget or organising a small event, allow for hands-on experience and boost practical skills. Moreover, they let you get feedback, providing you with precious knowledge on the things that you can improve.
Focus on Communication Skills
Effective communication is a cornerstone of entrepreneurship. Role-playing exercises or joining public speaking groups can help you practise articulating ideas and develop skills to interact with clients, partners, or investors confidently.
Use Assistive Technology
Many tools can be tailored to support specific needs. Some examples are
- text-to-speech apps,
- organisation software,
- spell checkers.
Thanks to them, you can focus on your ideas and entrepreneurial pursuits without being held back by challenges with spelling, reading, or counting.
For more information, we invite you to check out the EntrEUth project, creating new learning tools to make the world of entrepreneurship more inclusive. You can visit the project’s website or follow us on social media to be sure that you won’t miss out on the new results.