That learning disability you're struggling with may actually be to your benefit according to Julie Logan, a professor of entrepreneurship at London’s Cass Business School.

She also found that key traits that dyslexics are more likely to possess than their non-dyslexic counterparts -

1. Own more than one business
2. Run their businesses for a shorter time (although grow them more quickly)
3. Start their businesses right after school
4. Excel in oral communications, problem solving, delegation, and spatial awareness
5. Be influenced by a mentor (versus non-dyslexics, who are more influenced by educational experiences)
6. Manage more staff (25 as mean, versus 17 for non-dyslexics) because of increased ability to delegate, an example of a coping strategy employed to overcome difficulties

This doesn't surprise me - I would estimate that roughly thirty percent of the entrepreneurs I've worked with are dyslexic.

It is great to see that their ability to be successful backed up by research - too many people still question whether or not people with disabilities should be encouraged to start/run their own business.

Buying handmade is better for people, better for the environment, and better for giving truly special and well-crafted gifts. The ascendancy of chain store culture and global manufacturing has left us all dressing, furnishing, and decorating alike. The connection between producer and consumer has been lost. Buying handmade helps them reconnect.

as if bags began in 2005 when longtime friends Pam Matthews and Susan Hardt, along with Susan’s sister Ann Benefield, fell in love with a simple tote bag Pam made after taking a class at a local quilt shop. Everyone wanted one! So after some quick sewing lessons and many fabric-buying excursions, all three were busy designing and making bags in different shapes and sizes. Ann had the idea of starting a small business selling the bags at craft fairs and local markets. The only thing we needed for our plan was a good name.

Asperger’s Syndrome in our families was the common thread we all share, and we knew that any business we began would need to somehow incorporate Asperger’s Syndrome awareness. Susan came up with the name as if to stand for Asperger’s Syndrome in the family, and a share of all of our profits goes to organizations that promote the understanding and acceptance of these unique and special people.

• Entrepreneurship can be a powerful tool for social justice and change;
• Loving what you do is both possible and achievable;
• Creativity, passion and knowledge are transferable; and
• With the proper support, encouragement and resources anyone can create their own business -

I've spent the past two years speaking to groups and organizations about Active Gray Matter's mission. One of the most frequently asked questions I get about is why I believe incubation is a solution for people who are interested self-employment.