From Disabled to Adaptive
A Reflection on Redefining Perceptions of Disability
Tuesday, May 2, 2023
From Disabled to Adaptive
Written by
Founder
For years, people have used the word disabled to describe physical differences or impairments, and it has become a negative term with a lot of baggage. But what if we could shift our perspective and focus on adaptive solutions for the challenges that people with disabilities face? This blog post will explore my journey from using the word disabled to embracing the term adaptive and how this language change can impact my personal and society’s perception of disability.
The Journey from Disabled to Adaptive
My story started the day I was born when I was diagnosed with brachial plexus palsy in my right arm. Growing up, I always heard people use the word disabled when they talked about me or my right arm, and I quickly developed a distaste for this language because it felt like there was so much negativity attached to it. Over the years, I have started embracing the term adaptive instead; this small change in terminology has made an enormous difference in how I think about myself and how others perceive me.
The Power of Language
Words matter; they carry weight and meaning. By changing one small word—disabled to adaptive—, we can shift our perspective away from viewing disability as something terrible or wrong towards seeing difference as something positive and unique. It is no longer about what we cannot do but rather about finding creative solutions for what we can do differently. This shift in language helps us view disability not only from a medical perspective but also from an empowering social perspective.
Adaptive Solutions for Everyday Challenges
One thing that many people don’t realize is that those of us living adaptive life spend most of our days creating innovative solutions for everyday tasks. Writing with one hand requires different approaches than writing with two hands; simple tasks like tieing a shoe require adaptations like Velcro or slip-on instead of shoes that need to be tied or enlist help from someone else. These adaptive solutions might seem small, but they make huge differences in our lives and allow us to live more independently and confidently.
We all face various challenges throughout life; those living as adaptive humans have additional obstacles to overcome. By shifting our language away from disabled towards adaptive, we can begin to embrace difference while also recognizing the creative ways individuals adapt their lives around their challenges. Instead of seeing these adaptations as limitations, let’s start celebrating them as innovative solutions! After all, isn’t that what life is all about? Finding ways to adapt and overcome whatever obstacles come our way? That’s why I choose the term “adaptive” over “disabled” whenever possible—to remind myself (and others) that everyone is capable of achieving greatness no matter their circumstances!
More articles
Thursday, May 4, 2023
Written by
Colby K. Anderson
Challenge Yourself
Reach new heights by stepping out of your comfort zone!
Growing up, I believed asking for help signified weakness. However, as I matured, I realized the opposite is true. Facing overwhelming challenges can make us feel defeated, but it's important to remember that seeking assistance is not a sign of giving up. Instead, it's a courageous and strategic move that demonstrates strength and creativity. Having the bravery to ask for help can be the key difference between reaching our goals and ending up with an incomplete plan.
Thursday, April 13, 2023
Written by
Colby K. Anderson
Achieving Goals
How Focusing on the First Step Can Help You Achieve Your Goals
As adaptive humans, we are constantly striving to reach life goals, and it can be easy to become overwhelmed by the long and arduous journey ahead. I have learned the secret is remembering why we're on this path in the first place - our dreams! But most of the time, the mere thought of everything we need to do to get there can be overwhelming. We deem our goals impossible and give up before we even begin. The good news is that there is a simple solution to this problem. Don’t focus on the end goal; focus on the first step of your plan. This blog post will explore how this simple practice can help you achieve your goals.
Tuesday, April 11, 2023
Written by
Colby K. Anderson
Chasing Dreams
The Balance of Dreams and Reality
We all have dreams that spark our ambition and fuel our aspirations. Dreams provide us with hope, inspiration, and a sense of purpose. Yet, if we become consumed with the chase for something, we risk losing the beauty and possibility in the present moment. This explores the importance of cultivating a balanced relationship with our dreams and reality to embrace the extraordinary blend of possibilities and concrete circumstances. Strive to give life to your dreams while recognizing that the essence of living is to navigate the delicate balance between aspirations and reality.
Wednesday, April 5, 2023
Written by
Colby K. Anderson
Foundation is Everything
How Design Systems Aid in Establishing a Solid Foundation
Design systems are the foundation of any digital product. They provide an organized and consistent framework for building a product’s user experience, visual language, and codebase. A design system is much more than just a set of components. It is an ever-evolving way to create cohesive, meaningful experiences that engage users. By establishing a solid foundation with a well-thought-out design system, you can maximize the efficiency of your development process and create a product that stands out from the crowd.
Monday, April 3, 2023
Written by
Colby K. Anderson
Power of Laughter and Happiness
A Guide to Unlock and Boosting Creativity and Wellness
In today's fast-paced world, it's easy for the hustle of professional life to take a toll on our well-being. As designers, creatives, and professionals, it's essential to emphasize the importance of laughter and happiness for our wellness, enhanced productivity, and career success. Let’s explore the benefits of laughter and happiness and provide practical tips to integrate them into your daily routine. Get ready to unlock your potential and transform your life at work and beyond!
From Disabled to Adaptive
A Reflection on Redefining Perceptions of Disability
Tuesday, May 2, 2023
From Disabled to Adaptive
Written by
Founder
For years, people have used the word disabled to describe physical differences or impairments, and it has become a negative term with a lot of baggage. But what if we could shift our perspective and focus on adaptive solutions for the challenges that people with disabilities face? This blog post will explore my journey from using the word disabled to embracing the term adaptive and how this language change can impact my personal and society’s perception of disability.
The Journey from Disabled to Adaptive
My story started the day I was born when I was diagnosed with brachial plexus palsy in my right arm. Growing up, I always heard people use the word disabled when they talked about me or my right arm, and I quickly developed a distaste for this language because it felt like there was so much negativity attached to it. Over the years, I have started embracing the term adaptive instead; this small change in terminology has made an enormous difference in how I think about myself and how others perceive me.
The Power of Language
Words matter; they carry weight and meaning. By changing one small word—disabled to adaptive—, we can shift our perspective away from viewing disability as something terrible or wrong towards seeing difference as something positive and unique. It is no longer about what we cannot do but rather about finding creative solutions for what we can do differently. This shift in language helps us view disability not only from a medical perspective but also from an empowering social perspective.
Adaptive Solutions for Everyday Challenges
One thing that many people don’t realize is that those of us living adaptive life spend most of our days creating innovative solutions for everyday tasks. Writing with one hand requires different approaches than writing with two hands; simple tasks like tieing a shoe require adaptations like Velcro or slip-on instead of shoes that need to be tied or enlist help from someone else. These adaptive solutions might seem small, but they make huge differences in our lives and allow us to live more independently and confidently.
We all face various challenges throughout life; those living as adaptive humans have additional obstacles to overcome. By shifting our language away from disabled towards adaptive, we can begin to embrace difference while also recognizing the creative ways individuals adapt their lives around their challenges. Instead of seeing these adaptations as limitations, let’s start celebrating them as innovative solutions! After all, isn’t that what life is all about? Finding ways to adapt and overcome whatever obstacles come our way? That’s why I choose the term “adaptive” over “disabled” whenever possible—to remind myself (and others) that everyone is capable of achieving greatness no matter their circumstances!
More articles
Challenge Yourself
Reach new heights by stepping out of your comfort zone!
Achieving Goals
How Focusing on the First Step Can Help You Achieve Your Goals
Chasing Dreams
The Balance of Dreams and Reality
Foundation is Everything
How Design Systems Aid in Establishing a Solid Foundation
Power of Laughter and Happiness
A Guide to Unlock and Boosting Creativity and Wellness
From Disabled to Adaptive
A Reflection on Redefining Perceptions of Disability
Tuesday, May 2, 2023
From Disabled to Adaptive
Written by
Founder
For years, people have used the word disabled to describe physical differences or impairments, and it has become a negative term with a lot of baggage. But what if we could shift our perspective and focus on adaptive solutions for the challenges that people with disabilities face? This blog post will explore my journey from using the word disabled to embracing the term adaptive and how this language change can impact my personal and society’s perception of disability.
The Journey from Disabled to Adaptive
My story started the day I was born when I was diagnosed with brachial plexus palsy in my right arm. Growing up, I always heard people use the word disabled when they talked about me or my right arm, and I quickly developed a distaste for this language because it felt like there was so much negativity attached to it. Over the years, I have started embracing the term adaptive instead; this small change in terminology has made an enormous difference in how I think about myself and how others perceive me.
The Power of Language
Words matter; they carry weight and meaning. By changing one small word—disabled to adaptive—, we can shift our perspective away from viewing disability as something terrible or wrong towards seeing difference as something positive and unique. It is no longer about what we cannot do but rather about finding creative solutions for what we can do differently. This shift in language helps us view disability not only from a medical perspective but also from an empowering social perspective.
Adaptive Solutions for Everyday Challenges
One thing that many people don’t realize is that those of us living adaptive life spend most of our days creating innovative solutions for everyday tasks. Writing with one hand requires different approaches than writing with two hands; simple tasks like tieing a shoe require adaptations like Velcro or slip-on instead of shoes that need to be tied or enlist help from someone else. These adaptive solutions might seem small, but they make huge differences in our lives and allow us to live more independently and confidently.
We all face various challenges throughout life; those living as adaptive humans have additional obstacles to overcome. By shifting our language away from disabled towards adaptive, we can begin to embrace difference while also recognizing the creative ways individuals adapt their lives around their challenges. Instead of seeing these adaptations as limitations, let’s start celebrating them as innovative solutions! After all, isn’t that what life is all about? Finding ways to adapt and overcome whatever obstacles come our way? That’s why I choose the term “adaptive” over “disabled” whenever possible—to remind myself (and others) that everyone is capable of achieving greatness no matter their circumstances!
More articles
Challenge Yourself
Reach new heights by stepping out of your comfort zone!
Achieving Goals
How Focusing on the First Step Can Help You Achieve Your Goals
Chasing Dreams
The Balance of Dreams and Reality
Foundation is Everything
How Design Systems Aid in Establishing a Solid Foundation
Power of Laughter and Happiness
A Guide to Unlock and Boosting Creativity and Wellness
Built to shift.
Designed to last.
Get in touch to talk about your next project.
Meet the partners who are part of our success story
Built to shift.
Designed to last.
Get in touch to talk about your next project.
Meet the partners who are part of our success story
Built to shift.
Designed to last.
Get in touch to talk about your next project.
Meet the partners who are part of our success story