Basically Blind

The first installment of The More You Know series focuses on the book Mindset by Carol Dweck. Currently a psychology professor at Stanford University, Dweck’s book lays out how a person’s mindset can stand in the way of reaching their full potential. Avery summarizes the main points of the book, offers her critiques, and connects how mindset relates to diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA).

Avery gives an update on her physical and mental health. She shares how recent and persisting diagnoses are impacting her life and how she views herself.

Anyone can fall victim to imposter syndrome, but studies show that minorities and people with disabilities are even more prone to it. On top of this, people in historically marginalized groups often fight against stereotype threat. Avery defines each of these terms and gives examples of how both of these concepts are detrimental.

Exercise is important not just for physical health but mental health as well. However, when you are blind or visually impaired finding ways to stay active can be a little tricky. Avery explains what has and hasn't worked for her, and what she is trying to do now.

If people don't realize someone is blind, there can be a lot of wrong assumptions made on why they do things the way they do. Avery shares a list of things that she does or doesn't do because of low vision that could be seen as rude. She also goes into how other invisible disabilities can compile to make some things even harder.

Experiences vary a lot when it comes to living with a disability. Avery sits down with her long-time friend Andrea to learn about life with a hearing impairment. Andrea shares how it has impacted her personally and professionally, and she explains how it took a long time for her to identify as having a disability.

Avery shares the importance of wellness in the diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility space and how feeling alienated can have both mental and physical consequences. She goes over her personal struggles with taking care of herself and tips anyone can use to boost wellness.

An unprecedented amount of people are planning to quit their jobs and/or pivot their careers, and it has been dubbed The Great Resignation.  Avery touches on reasons why this is happening and DEIA principles that may be contributing.

Knowing how you should address a person with a disability can be tricky. Is it better to say a blind person or a person who is blind? The answer: It depends. Some communities have preferences on identity-first vs. person-first language, and it can differ from person to person. Avery discusses this topic and gives her personal preference.

People with disabilities statistically have a much harder time finding and maintaining full-time employment.  Ableism in the workplace is one of the biggest reasons for this. Avery opens up about her own experiences and challenges in building a career.