How do you handle situations where people assume your reading abilities based on their perceptions of intelligence?

Have you ever felt that sting when someone assumes your reading abilities reflect your intelligence? Many of us with dyslexia have faced this frustrating reality, and it can feel so isolating. The truth is, our brains process language differently, and that doesn’t equate to a lack of intelligence. It’s tough when others don’t understand that. One thing that has really helped me is learning to advocate for myself in those moments. For example, if someone makes an assumption about my reading skills, I try to share a bit about my experience. I might explain that reading can be challenging for me, but that doesn’t mean I lack knowledge or understanding in other areas. It’s all about reshaping the narrative and helping them see that our strengths lie in different places. Another approach many of us find helpful is surrounding ourselves with supportive people who get it. Having a friend or mentor who understands dyslexia can make all the difference. I found someone in my local community who also has dyslexia, and we regularly chat about our experiences. Just knowing that we’re not alone in this has made those difficult moments a bit easier to handle. Sometimes, we might even encounter well-meaning comments that can feel dismissive — like when people say, "You just need to try harder." It’s important to remind ourselves that we are not defined by these misconceptions. We have unique ways of processing information that can lead to incredible creativity and problem-solving skills. When we share our stories with others, we start to chip away at those stereotypes, and it helps create a space for understanding. Anyone else dealing with this? How do you manage those assumptions when they come up? Sometimes just one real conversation with someone who gets it changes everything. I’d love to hear your experiences!