#MyDyslexiaStory: Garran Hickman
Thursday 13 January 2022
I was diagnosed around 6 months ago and I'm 25 years old. I always knew I was Dyslexic as my approaches on tasks for example, writing or problem solving always differed to others. I naturally used an alternative route and took a little longer to get to the same as my peers. I was the one who noticed this, and never really acted up on how I was feeling. This caused angst and low self-esteem when attempting academic tasks.
“I believe it gives me an alternative/creative edge when trying to create art”
Apart from having low self-esteem and confidence approaching academic tasks it's never really had a negative impact on my life. It's funny though as I'm a writer and I believe it gives me an alternative/creative edge when trying to create art. I believe dyslexia only has positive impacts in a creative world.
The Poet in me
My band 'Headshrinkers' has been described as ‘incendiary Post-Punk laced with stunning poetic majesty’, not bad for a dyslexic poet eh? The band receiving backing from BBC 6 Music and Radio X, as well as performing at Isle of Wight Festival and in The Netherlands. I think just being able to write poetry and the never-ending love for poetry and to put it to music with my best mates is the most important achievement.
My advice for someone who has recently been diagnosed with dyslexia:
Keep keeping on. Wear it, show it and raise it to the roof and be proud of who you are. It's a huge advantage being dyslexic. It's neurodiversity that enhances creativity giving you an alternative edge.