Disability is not an obstacle to success. These inspirational leaders prove that

A participant taking part in the men's wheelchair division crosses the July 15 Martyrs' Bridge, known as the Bosphorus Bridge, which links the city's European and Asian sides, during the 38th annual Istanbul Marathon in Istanbul, Turkey, November 13, 2016. REUTERS/Murad Sezer - RTX2TF7U

These leaders show that disability is no barrier to achieving incredible things Image:  REUTERS/Murad Sezer

.chakra .wef-1c7l3mo{-webkit-transition:all 0.15s ease-out;transition:all 0.15s ease-out;cursor:pointer;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;outline:none;color:inherit;}.chakra .wef-1c7l3mo:hover,.chakra .wef-1c7l3mo[data-hover]{-webkit-text-decoration:underline;text-decoration:underline;}.chakra .wef-1c7l3mo:focus,.chakra .wef-1c7l3mo[data-focus]{box-shadow:0 0 0 3px rgba(168,203,251,0.5);} Stéphanie Thomson

A hand holding a looking glass by a lake

.chakra .wef-1nk5u5d{margin-top:16px;margin-bottom:16px;line-height:1.388;color:#2846F8;font-size:1.25rem;}@media screen and (min-width:56.5rem){.chakra .wef-1nk5u5d{font-size:1.125rem;}} Get involved .chakra .wef-9dduvl{margin-top:16px;margin-bottom:16px;line-height:1.388;font-size:1.25rem;}@media screen and (min-width:56.5rem){.chakra .wef-9dduvl{font-size:1.125rem;}} with our crowdsourced digital platform to deliver impact at scale

Stay up to date:.

“Disability need not be an obstacle to success,” Stephen Hawking wrote in the first ever world disability report back in 2011. As one of the most influential scientists of modern times, the wheelchair-bound physicist is certainly proof of that.

 Stephen Hawking:

So why then are public attitudes so far from the reality? Almost 40% of respondents in a survey in Britain said that disabled people aren’t as productive as others. In the same survey, a quarter of disabled people said people expected less of them because of their disability.

It is these sorts of attitudes, rather than any mental or physical impairment, that create barriers for people with disabilities. As these leaders from the world of sports, culture and business show, it’s about time we changed those outdated beliefs.

“I went blind at 22. From an athlete, I became a young man with a white cane, unsure how to live my life,” Mark Pollock, a Forum Young Global Leader explains. But very soon, he found a deeper purpose in life, and realized his disability didn’t have to stop him from achieving great things.

“I began to race in deserts, mountains, across oceans, and on the 10th anniversary of going blind, I raced over 43 days to the South Pole.”

But in 2010, an accident left him paralyzed, and once again his world changed overnight: “My new life was shattered.”

He had a choice: to let his disability define him for the rest of his life, or to continue fighting. There was only ever one way it was going to go.

“If I just sat in a wheelchair, I’d be giving up completely,” he remembers. Today, he’s working with other leaders from science, technology and communications to fund and fast-track a cure for paralysis.

Born in the US in 1880, an illness left Helen Keller both blind and deaf before her second birthday. While the services available to people with disabilities were less extensive than they are today, Keller’s mother sought out experts and ensured her daughter received the best education.

In 1904, Keller graduated from Radcliffe College, becoming the first deaf-blind person to earn a bachelor of arts. It was at university that her career as a writer and social activist started. Today, the Helen Keller archives contain almost 500 speeches and essays on topics as varied as birth control and Fascism in Europe.

She would go on to achieve international acclaim, becoming America’s first Goodwill Ambassador, and to this day she remains an inspiration to the deaf and blind .

 Helen Keller:

Ralph Braun was still a young boy when he was diagnosed with muscular dystrophy, an incurable group of genetic diseases that leads to a loss of muscle mass.

A few years after his diagnosis, Ralph began to lose his ability to walk. While doctors warned him he would never be able to lead an independent life, the young boy was already proving people wrong, building the first battery-powered scooter. His passion would eventually lead him to establish wheelchair manufacturer BraunAbility.

 Ralph Braun

He died in 2013, but as his company’s website notes, his legacy lives on. “Necessity is the mother of invention, and Ralph’s physical limitations only served to fuel his determination to live independently and prove to society that people with physical disabilities can participate fully and actively in life.”

Mexico’s most famous artist was born with spina bifida, a condition that can cause defects in the spinal cord. At six, she contracted polio, which left one leg much thinner than the other.

In spite of these challenges, she was an active child, but at 18 a bus accident left her with serious injuries. It was while recovering from the accident that Frida discovered her love of painting. She would go on to be one of the most famous Surrealists in the world.

Have you read?

A tipping point missed: women in global leadership, want to improve your decision-making and become a better leader some mistakes to avoid, don't miss any update on this topic.

Create a free account and access your personalized content collection with our latest publications and analyses.

License and Republishing

World Economic Forum articles may be republished in accordance with the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International Public License, and in accordance with our Terms of Use.

The views expressed in this article are those of the author alone and not the World Economic Forum.

The Agenda .chakra .wef-n7bacu{margin-top:16px;margin-bottom:16px;line-height:1.388;font-weight:400;} Weekly

A weekly update of the most important issues driving the global agenda

.chakra .wef-1dtnjt5{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;-webkit-flex-wrap:wrap;-ms-flex-wrap:wrap;flex-wrap:wrap;} More on Leadership .chakra .wef-17xejub{-webkit-flex:1;-ms-flex:1;flex:1;justify-self:stretch;-webkit-align-self:stretch;-ms-flex-item-align:stretch;align-self:stretch;} .chakra .wef-nr1rr4{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;white-space:normal;vertical-align:middle;text-transform:uppercase;font-size:0.75rem;border-radius:0.25rem;font-weight:700;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;line-height:1.2;-webkit-letter-spacing:1.25px;-moz-letter-spacing:1.25px;-ms-letter-spacing:1.25px;letter-spacing:1.25px;background:none;padding:0px;color:#B3B3B3;-webkit-box-decoration-break:clone;box-decoration-break:clone;-webkit-box-decoration-break:clone;}@media screen and (min-width:37.5rem){.chakra .wef-nr1rr4{font-size:0.875rem;}}@media screen and (min-width:56.5rem){.chakra .wef-nr1rr4{font-size:1rem;}} See all

essay on disability not an obstacle to success

This is what businesses need to be focusing on in 2024, according to top leaders

Victoria Masterson

April 16, 2024

essay on disability not an obstacle to success

3 ways leaders can activate responsible leadership in uncertain times

Ida Jeng Christensen

April 8, 2024

essay on disability not an obstacle to success

The catalysing collective: Announcing the Class of 2024

April 4, 2024

essay on disability not an obstacle to success

What we learned about effective decision making from Nobel laureate Daniel Kahneman

Kate Whiting

March 28, 2024

essay on disability not an obstacle to success

Women founders and venture capital – some 2023 snapshots

essay on disability not an obstacle to success

Lessons in leadership and adventure from Kat Bruce

Logo

Essay on Disability Is Not A Hindrance To Success

Students are often asked to write an essay on Disability Is Not A Hindrance To Success in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Disability Is Not A Hindrance To Success

Introduction.

Disability is a condition that makes certain activities tough for a person. But it’s not a roadblock to success. Many people with disabilities have achieved great things. They prove that success is not about physical perfection, but about willpower and determination.

Understanding Disability

A disability could be a physical or mental condition that limits a person’s movements or activities. Some people are born with disabilities, while others get them later in life. It’s important to know that disability doesn’t define a person or their ability to succeed.

Disability and Success

Success is about achieving goals. It’s not about how fast or easy you get there. People with disabilities often have to work harder and find unique ways to reach their goals. This makes their success even more special.

Role Models

There are many successful people with disabilities. For example, Stephen Hawking, a famous scientist, had a severe physical disability. Despite this, he made groundbreaking discoveries in physics. His story shows that disability is not a hindrance to success.

In conclusion, disability is not a barrier to success. It’s about the spirit, determination, and hard work. Everyone, irrespective of their physical or mental condition, can achieve success if they believe in themselves and continue to strive for their goals.

250 Words Essay on Disability Is Not A Hindrance To Success

Disability means when a person cannot do some things in the same way as most people. This might be due to a problem with the body or mind. It is important to know that having a disability does not stop someone from achieving success.

Success Beyond Disability

Success is not only about physical strength or mental sharpness. It is about the will to win, the desire to succeed, and the urge to reach one’s full potential. These are the keys that will unlock the door to personal achievement. A person with a disability can have these qualities as much as anyone else.

Real-life Examples

There are many people with disabilities who have achieved great things. Stephen Hawking, a famous scientist, had a disease that made his body very weak. But he did not let this stop him. He used his mind to explore the universe and became one of the most respected scientists in the world.

Importance of Attitude

The most important thing is not the disability, but the attitude of the person. If a person believes they can succeed, then they can overcome any obstacle. They may need to find different ways to do things, but with determination, they can reach their goals.

In conclusion, disability is not a hindrance to success. It is just a different way of experiencing the world. With the right attitude, anyone, regardless of disability, can achieve great things.

500 Words Essay on Disability Is Not A Hindrance To Success

We often hear the saying, “Disability is not a hindrance to success.” This means that even if a person has a disability, it doesn’t stop them from achieving their goals. Many people with disabilities have proven this true by their remarkable achievements.

A disability is a condition that makes it more difficult for a person to do certain activities or interact with the world around them. These disabilities might be physical, like not being able to walk or move a part of the body, or they may involve the brain, with conditions like learning disabilities, autism, or mental health disorders.

Challenges and Overcoming Them

People with disabilities often face many challenges. These might include problems with moving around, learning new things, or dealing with other people’s attitudes and misunderstandings about disabilities. But these challenges do not define a person or limit what they can achieve.

With the right mindset and support, people with disabilities can overcome these challenges. They can find different ways to do things, use special tools or technology, or get help from others. This shows that a disability does not have to be a hindrance to success.

Success Stories

There are many examples of successful people with disabilities. For instance, Stephen Hawking, one of the most famous scientists in the world, had a condition that made it hard for him to move and speak. But this didn’t stop him from making important discoveries about the universe.

Then there’s Helen Keller, who was blind and deaf, yet she became a well-known writer and speaker. She used her voice to fight for the rights of people with disabilities.

The Role of Society

Society plays a big part in helping people with disabilities succeed. Schools can provide special education programs. Employers can make workplaces more accessible. And laws can protect the rights of people with disabilities. All these things can help remove barriers to success.

In the end, success is not about what you can’t do, but what you can do. It’s about finding your strengths and using them to reach your goals. And it’s about not letting anything, not even a disability, stand in your way. So, remember, disability is not a hindrance to success. It’s just a different way of experiencing the world.

That’s it! I hope the essay helped you.

If you’re looking for more, here are essays on other interesting topics:

  • Essay on Disability Discrimination
  • Essay on Crisis Management
  • Essay on Criminology Theories

Apart from these, you can look at all the essays by clicking here .

Happy studying!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Life of a Blind Girl

disability , Uncategorized · March 17, 2019

Let’s talk about success and disability

When you think about success and disability, what’s the first thing that springs to mind? Do you put the two hand-in-hand or think they’re separate?

There is a common notion surrounding success and disability that disabled people can’t achieve the same things as non-disabled people because of our disability, well this isn’t true at all. I’m going to put things straight: disabled people can succeed. Ok, so it may take us longer to do certain tasks and we may need adaptions in order for us to do things just like non-disabled people, but this isn’t something negative or something to be ashamed of, we’re just making tasks accessible so that we can complete them to the same standard as everyone else

I talk about my achievements on my blog, I’m open and honest with you all, I don’t do any of this to show off, I do it because I want to help others and tackle the common misconceptions surrounding sight loss and disability, I think success and disability is a topic that needs to be discussed.

Is there a link between success and disability?

Disabled people work just as hard as non-disabled people, in fact, it could be argued that we have to work even harder because we often face access barriers or have to find alternative ways of completing tasks. Having alternative methods for completing tasks doesn’t mean that we do them differently to non-disabled people, we just do them in a different way. The world is not fully accessible, society doesn’t always see disability for what it is, but this doesn’t mean that we can’t achieve and succeed.

There is sometimes a common stigma that disabled people succeed and achieve their goals because of pity and that we achieve because ‘we’re disabled’, let me tell you, this is not the case at all. We achieve our goals in spite of our disabilities, not because of them. Did I get good grades, get a degree and get my job because of my disability? No I didn’t. People didn’t think ‘oh I feel sorry for her, so I’ll let her achieve whatever she wants’, I achieved all of this because I put the work in and was determined. Having a disability has nothing to do with our achievements and it doesn’t define them either.

Granted, my vision impairment has given me many unique skills such as being a confident braillist, a cane user and the ability to use a wide range of assistive technology, all of these skills help me in my life and may well be detrimental for my future, but they aren’t the only reasons I achieve my goals. They present me with many unique skills which do look good, but it’s all about how I use these skills in order to succeed and how I use them effectively.

A photo of a braille display, there is a vase with two roses in and a candle behind it

Yes, my disability has given me skills, but my achievements aren’t because of my vision impairment and I certainly haven’t achieved them solely on the basis that I’m blind, that’s far from it. Having a disability doesn’t automatically mean that a person will achieve whatever they want to, we have to work hard, just like everyone else.

Whilst our disability may be the reason we have some specialist skills, our success isn’t based on our disability and we don’t achieve things because of it.

Exceeding expectations

Public attitudes surrounding disability can often be negative, these stigmas are so far from reality but can put doubt and questions in disabled people’s minds, but we shouldn’t let these wrongly perceived ideas define our capabilities and stop us from succeeding.

I’ve been blind all my life due to a condition called Retinopathy of Prematurity, I’ve met many people that didn’t think I could succeed because I’m blind. I’ve been through some challenging chapters, there’s been times where I’ve wanted to give up but I don’t deserve to be condemned to a life where people believe I’m incapable and can’t succeed just because I have a disability, and neither does anyone else.

Things haven’t always been easy, in school my Teaching Assistants weren’t often given work in time for them to put it into an accessible format so that I could do the work like everyone else, we always adapted in the best ways we could, but we shouldn’t have had to do that. Myself and my parents had to fight for basic provisions and this is still the case today. People didn’t think that I would get the grades, but guess what? I worked extremely hard and proved people wrong. I got a good set of GCSE’s, did better than I thought in my A-levels and I got the grades to go to my first choice University, I then graduated University with a BA Honours degree in Children, Young People and Families and now work as an Assistive Technology Advisor. Some might say that I exceeded expectations, but others might not. I’ve proved that by working hard, having the right mindset and being determined, you can achieve what you want to, whether you have a disability or not.

Holly stood up holding her purple cane, she is wearing a black coat, black leggings and long grey boots. The city walls and York Minster are in the background

Having a disability is not an obstacle for success

We need to teach the younger generation that having a disability does not mean that they can’t get good grades, can’t go onto college/University or get their dream job because they can. Having a disability can come with its limitations but doesn’t everything? It’s about how you look beyond them and realise your capabilities. Stereotypes, stigmas and people’s attitudes and wrongly perceived ideas may try to throw a person off their path, but this doesn’t mean to say that disabled people can’t achieve. It’s all about embracing how we achieve our goals, we may need adaptions, but this isn’t something to be ashamed of.

Why do society have such negative attitudes surrounding success and disability? Why do non-disabled people think that we can’t achieve what we want to, and expect less of us because of our disability. We should be pushed to achieve our goals and encouraged to do so.

It’s often our disability that isn’t a barrier, it’s people’s perceptions on disability and success that are the problem. Attitudes and perceptions are creating even more barriers for disabled people in all aspects of life, and it’s about time that we changed those.

According to disability charity  Scope , disabled people are more than twice as likely to be unemployed than non-disabled people. Obviously, people’s attitudes aren’t the only thing that has an impact on unemployment rates and other aspects of life for disabled people, but attitudes certainly play a part. Accessibility and opportunities also play a role, but changing attitudes on disability can help.

Research by the  RNIB  found that one of the biggest and most common barriers that blind and vision impaired people face is people’s lack of knowledge and understanding on sight loss and their outdated attitudes on blind and vision impaired people. The research also found that 50% of the general public think that people with a vision impairment would struggle to hold down a job. These statistics show that attitudes and outdated stereotypes are often some of the biggest barriers that disabled people face, which can lead to other consequences such as affecting a disabled person’s education or employment opportunities. Personally, I think that the misconceptions and outdated ideologies can be more of a barrier than our disabilities or impairments themselves.

People have told me that I may not get to where I want to be in life because of my vision impairment, although these comments can be demoralising, they motivated me to work hard and prove people wrong.

I realised that I had a choice – to let my disability define me and dictate my life, or to strive to get to where I want to be, block out the wrongly preconceived ideas and prove those people wrong, I think we all know that I chose the latter. I surround myself with people that encourage me, motivate me and push me to work hard, those people see my capabilities, not my limitations. I will not surround myself with people that think I can’t succeed because of my vision impairment or those that think I can’t live the life I want to, I will never conform to those ideas because that’s not me, and it doesn’t have to be you either.

I’m a blogger, an Assistive Technology Advisor, a University graduate and so many more things that I’m proud to be.

A photo of Holly holding the 2018 Shaw Trust Disability Power 100 list publication, there is a garden in the background

People have told me that my blog has become a huge success, but when I started blogging, I never thought that these sort of opportunities would come my way. I’m lucky enough to have taken part in various campaigns for organisations such as the RNIB and Scope, be listed as one of the top 100 most influential disabled people in the UK in the Shaw Trust 2018 Disability Power 100 list and be featured in a newspaper.

Holly's article in the Yorkshire Post

However, I don’t think I’m successful, I’m just living my life and working hard.

Do these things make me successful? I’ll let you decide…

Success is different for everyone; some people want to be in the spotlight whilst others are quietly achieving amazing things in the background, but it doesn’t make them any less successful.

If you feel like the odds are against you, I want you to know that it is possible to defy them, when you achieve those goals, it’ll be an incredible feeling!

Why let people’s attitudes stop you from succeeding,

Go out there, strive to succeed, live life the way you want to and never let anyone tell you that you can’t do something because of your disability.

Remember that you can succeed and achieve your goals, don’t let anything hold you back.

What are your thoughts on success and disability? Let me know in the comments.

Share this:

' src=

March 19, 2019 at 4:15 pm

A really empowering post as always. There’s definitely a lot of stigma surrounding success and disability and it’s important to show people that it is possible to achieve amazing things. You’re definitely doing just that xxx

' src=

March 20, 2019 at 8:58 pm

Thank you so much lovely, that means the world xxx

' src=

March 7, 2021 at 4:48 am

I have a worsening visual disability along with a few traumatic life events that have left me unable to obtain meaningful work. I wonder if you could advise me on any accessibility solutions to help.

March 22, 2021 at 7:31 pm

In terms of assistive technology, I’d recommend exploring different options of screen readers and magnification software (depending on which is right for your level of vision). I’d also recommend contacting local and national charities as they offer lots of advice and support

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Lifeofablindgirl.

Award-winning Disability Blogger and Freelance Writer | Social Media Officer | often chatting all things accessibility | #DisabilityPower100

Holly

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

Email Address

Copyright © 2024 Life of a Blind Girl Theme by 17th Avenue

Copyright © 2024 · Pippa on Genesis Framework · WordPress · Log in

Essay Chats

Essay On Disability Is Not An Obstacle For Success

Essay On Disability Is Not An Obstacle For Success

Table of Contents

Introduction

Disability is when someone has a condition that makes it harder for them to do certain things. Some people might think that having a disability means you can’t be successful, but that’s not true. There have been many amazing people in history who have overcome their disabilities and achieved great things. In this Essay On Disability Is Not An Obstacle For Success Essay, we will learn about these inspiring individuals and see how disability is not a barrier to success. We will also talk about the importance of including everyone and how being determined and strong can help us overcome challenges.

The Triumph of the human spirit

1.1 Helen Keller: Overcoming Deafness and Blindness

Let’s start with Helen Keller. She was deaf and blind when she was young, which means she couldn’t hear or see. But that didn’t stop her from doing incredible things. She became a famous writer, fought for important causes, and even gave speeches to inspire others. Helen Keller showed us that having a disability doesn’t mean we can’t achieve great things if we believe in ourselves and work hard.

1.2 Stephen Hawking: A brilliant mind confined to a wheelchair

Another person who achieved a lot despite his disability was Stephen Hawking. He was a very smart physicist, but he had a disease that made it hard for him to move or speak. Even though his body didn’t work like most people’s, his mind was full of amazing ideas about space and the universe. Stephen Hawking showed us that our minds are powerful, and we can still make important discoveries even if our bodies are different.

Checkout this book:  Disability is Not Inability

II. The importance of inclusivity

2.1 Access to Education and employment opportunities

It’s really important that everyone, including people with disabilities, has the same chance to go to school and get a good job. When schools and workplaces are inclusive, it means they welcome and support all kinds of people. Inclusive schools make sure that students with disabilities can learn and grow just like everyone else. And inclusive workplaces give people with disabilities a chance to use their talents and skills. When we include everyone, we can create a better and more innovative society.

2.2 Challenging Stereotypes and promoting understanding

Sometimes people have wrong ideas about what people with disabilities can do. They might think that they can’t do certain things because of their disabilities. But it’s important to challenge these ideas and learn the truth. When we show the achievements of people with disabilities and talk about their successes, we can change how people think. Disability is just one part of who a person is, and it doesn’t stop them from being successful.

III. The power of determination and resilience

3.1 Overcoming Adversity through Resilience

People with disabilities face many challenges, but they don’t let those challenges define them. They are strong and keep going even when things are hard. Their determination and resilience help them overcome obstacles and reach their goals. They inspire others to believe in themselves and know that they can overcome anything too. With the right mindset, we can conquer any challenge, including disability.

3.2 Redefining Success and embracing personal achievements

Success doesn’t always mean being rich or famous. People with disabilities often redefine success by focusing on their own achievements, growth, and happiness. They find alternative paths to reach their goals and celebrate even small accomplishments. This shows us that success is about personal progress and finding fulfillment in what we do. We should celebrate all kinds of achievements and value the unique journeys of individuals with disabilities.

This Essay On Disability Is Not An Obstacle For Success Essay concludes that having a disability doesn’t mean you can’t be successful. We have seen how people like Helen Keller and Stephen Hawking overcame their disabilities and achieved great things. By including everyone, challenging stereotypes, and being determined and strong, we can create a society where people with disabilities can succeed and make a difference.

How disability is not an obstacle for success?

Disability is not an obstacle for success because many successful people with disabilities have proven that challenges can be overcome through determination, adaptability, and support.

Do you think disability is an obstacle?

While some may think disability is an obstacle, it doesn’t define a person’s potential. With the right mindset and resources, individuals with disabilities can achieve great success.

Can you be successful with a disability?

Absolutely! Success is not limited by disability. By focusing on strengths, setting goals, and seeking assistance when needed, individuals with disabilities can reach their full potential.

How can a disability be an advantage?

A disability can be advantageous by encouraging resilience, creativity, and unique perspectives that lead to innovative solutions and a diverse workforce.

How can disabilities be overcome?

Disabilities can be overcome through education, accessibility improvements, inclusive policies, and promoting understanding and acceptance, enabling individuals to thrive and succeed in various aspects of life.

Also Checkout These Posts:

  • Essay on failure is the stepping stone to success
  • Perseverance is the key to success Essay
  • What makes life meaningful Essay
  • Is it better to dream big or be realistic Essay

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

U.S. flag

An official website of the United States government

The .gov means it's official. Federal government websites often end in .gov or .mil. Before sharing sensitive information, make sure you're on a federal government site.

The site is secure. The https:// ensures that you are connecting to the official website and that any information you provide is encrypted and transmitted securely.

  • Publications
  • Account settings
  • Browse Titles

NCBI Bookshelf. A service of the National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health.

World Report on Disability 2011. Geneva: World Health Organization; 2011.

Cover of World Report on Disability 2011

World Report on Disability 2011.

Photo of Professor Stephen W Hawking.

Disability need not be an obstacle to success. I have had motor neurone disease for practically all my adult life. Yet it has not prevented me from having a prominent career in astrophysics and a happy family life.

Reading the World report on disability , I find much of relevance to my own experience. I have benefitted from access to first class medical care. I rely on a team of personal assistants who make it possible for me to live and work in comfort and dignity. My house and my workplace have been made accessible for me. Computer experts have supported me with an assisted communication system and a speech synthesizer which allow me to compose lectures and papers, and to communicate with different audiences.

But I realize that I am very lucky, in many ways. My success in theoretical physics has ensured that I am supported to live a worthwhile life. It is very clear that the majority of people with disabilities in the world have an extremely difficult time with everyday survival, let alone productive employment and personal fulfilment.

I welcome this first World report on disability . This report makes a major contribution to our understanding of disability and its impact on individuals and society. It highlights the different barriers that people with disabilities face – attitudinal, physical, and financial. Addressing these barriers is within our reach.

In fact we have a moral duty to remove the barriers to participation , and to invest sufficient funding and expertise to unlock the vast potential of people with disabilities. Governments throughout the world can no longer overlook the hundreds of millions of people with disabilities who are denied access to health , rehabilitation , support, education and employment, and never get the chance to shine.

The report makes recommendations for action at the local, national and international levels. It will thus be an invaluable tool for policy-makers, researchers, practitioners, advocates and volunteers involved in disability . It is my hope that, beginning with the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities , and now with the publication of the World report on disability , this century will mark a turning point for inclusion of people with disabilities in the lives of their societies.

  • Professor Stephen W Hawking

All rights reserved. Publications of the World Health Organization are available on the WHO web site ( www.who.int ) or can be purchased from WHO Press, World Health Organization, 20 Avenue Appia, 1211 Geneva 27, Switzerland (tel.: +41 22 791 3264; fax: +41 22 791 4857; e-mail: tni.ohw@sredrokoob ). Requests for permission to reproduce or translate WHO publications – whether for sale or for noncommercial distribution – should be addressed to WHO Press through the WHO web site ( http://www.who.int/about/licensing/copyright_form/en/index.html ).

  • Cite this Page World Report on Disability 2011. Geneva: World Health Organization; 2011. Foreword.
  • PDF version of this title (10M)
  • Disable Glossary Links

Other titles in this collection

  • WHO Guidelines Approved by the Guidelines Review Committee

Recent Activity

  • Foreword - World Report on Disability 2011 Foreword - World Report on Disability 2011

Your browsing activity is empty.

Activity recording is turned off.

Turn recording back on

Connect with NLM

National Library of Medicine 8600 Rockville Pike Bethesda, MD 20894

Web Policies FOIA HHS Vulnerability Disclosure

Help Accessibility Careers

statistics

essay on disability not an obstacle to success

  • Festival of Democracy
  • Latest News
  • Andhra Pradesh
  • Visakhapatnam

Entertainment

  • Photo Stories
  • Delhi Region
  • Education & Careers
  • Media Outreach
  • Revanth Reddy
  • Telangana Assembly
  • Andhra Pradesh News Updates
  • telangana news updates
  • 2024 Lok Sabha elections
  • 23 weapons seized in the wake of elections: District SP Gaikwad
  • Parvathipuram: Calls to protect spirit of democracy
  • Congress’ ‘Ghar Wapsi’ strengthening party at grassroot level: Jagga Reddy
  • Cops to look into role of politicos in phone-tapping case
  • ‘Basti plan’ must be implemented: Ronald Rose
  • Visakhapatnam: TDP Bheemili MLA says people in need of change
  • Voting is not only right but also responsibility, says AP CEO
  • ECI censures Minister Konda Surekha
  • PM Modi must read Congress manifesto first
  • DCA carries out series of raids, seizes drugs

Disability not an obstacle to success

essay on disability not an obstacle to success

Every year, the International Day of Persons with Disabilities is marked on December 3

Every year, the International Day of Persons with Disabilities is marked on December 3. First proclaimed in 1992 by the United Nations General Assembly, the day aims to promotean understanding of disability issues and mobilisesupport for the dignity, rights and well-being of persons with disabilities. It also aims to raise awareness of the situations of persons with disabilities in all aspects of political, social, economic and cultural life. The theme for this year is "Transformativesolutions for inclusive development:the role of innovation in fuelling an accessible and equitable world".

World Health Organisation(WHO) recognizes disability as a global public health issue, a human rights issue and a development priority. Its time to act and find joint solution in building a more sustainable and resilient world for all and for the generation to come.With the motto of 'leave no one behind', governments, public and private sectors collaboratively find innovative solutions for and with persons with disabilities to make the world a more accessible and equitable place.

"Disability need not be an obstacle to success," Stephen Hawking wrotein the first ever disability report back in 2011. As one of the most influential scientists of modern times, the wheel chair-bound physicist is certainly proof of that. But public attitudes are far from reality. As long as one can possess the strong and healthy will, no kind of physical ability can stop them, from achieving great things provided they are courageous, determined, persevere andsilliness diligent.Let me tell you that people with disabilities are the most courageous, strongest and wonderful human beings. Let us not forget that some of the most successful people the world has ever seen were physically challenged people such as Helen Keller, Stephen Hawking, Albert Einstein etc. were disabled.

Generally, the attitude of people towards disabled is not encouraging and supportive. They are made to feel as if they are worthless, unfortunate and cannot do anything useful and substantive in life.They don't need sympathy but they need respect which they rightfully deserve as a human being. They can handle challenges and cross obstacles and handle adverse situations like we all do. They only need our emotional support and encouragement. A poor treatment, a negative and belittling comment can affect their self- esteem, confidence and slacken their performance at work place and push them into depression.

There are different types of disabilities like physical disability, intellectual disability, visual impairment, hearing impairment and mental illness. Each disability needs different approach and assistance. The most important quality the disabled person should possess is self confidence and positive attitude, and those who possess these two qualities there is no looking back for them in reaching their goal. It's the society that provides them with these tools. Family and friends support becomes backbone for them. They need financial support from the government for their rehabilitation therapies. There are many NGOs and charitable institutes that provide education and jobs for them. With the right support from family, community and the government, a disabled person can lead a successful life.

Never assume and take for granted that people with disabilities are always in need of help to lead their lives. In case you want to help them please learn about their needs and specific details as to how to help them. Use simple language while speaking to them. While dealing with those with speech disability, give them time to finish and don't be in a hurry either to complete their sentence or assist them with words interrupting their flow of speech. Some people have little complex and hesitate to express. Don't stare at them instead make them comfortable. Let your conversation be not around their disability. Give them space and privacy and try to make them as comfortable as possible.

Unfortunately, in many parts of India differently abled face many problems right from getting access to move freely in public places, transport, finding jobs to even availing governmental benefit schemes meant for their welfare. Its disheartening to think that the disabled are looked down upon in our society and they lack support at all levels.

Let the disabled go out, strive to succeed, live the life the way they want to. Let nobody tell them and stop them from doing as they can't do something because of their disability. Don't try to always hold them back reminding them of what they are.

Success is different for everyone, some people want to be in the spotlight while some are quiet achievers of amazing things always remaining in the back stage, but it doesn't make them any less successful.

(The author is closely associated with ASHRAY AKRUTI, an NGO for hearing impaired.)

  • International Day of Persons with Disabilities
  • Disabilities

essay on disability not an obstacle to success

  • Advertise With us
  • Terms & Conditions
  • Subscriber Terms of Use
  • Privacy Policy
  • Editor'S Desk

essay on disability not an obstacle to success

© 2024 Hyderabad Media House Limited/The Hans India. All rights reserved. Powered by hocalwire.com

essay on disability not an obstacle to success

Essay on Disability is not an obstacle for success

Today, In this article we are going to write essay on Disability is not an obstacle for success in English in 500 words. This article is about Disability is not an obstacle for success.

This post can help the school students who are looking “Disability is not an obstacle for success par nibandh English mein” . We briefing about “Disability is not an obstacle for success in the English” which is very useful for student.

This essay on “Disability is not an obstacle for success” is generally useful for class 7, class 8, class 9 and 10 .

Table of Content

Introduction, embracing diversity and redefining success, success stories defying expectations, adapting and overcoming challenges:, the role of support and accessibility.

  • FAQ about Disability is not an obstacle for success

essay on Disability is not an obstacle for success

Simple essay on Disability is not an obstacle for success in English

The concept of success is often associated with overcoming challenges, pushing boundaries, and achieving one’s goals. While society tends to perceive disability as a hindrance, the reality is that disability is not an obstacle for success. In fact, individuals with disabilities have proven time and again that their determination, resilience, and unique perspectives can lead them to great accomplishments in various fields. This essay will explore how disabilities should not define a person’s potential and highlight the stories of successful individuals who have shattered barriers and achieved remarkable feats.

First and foremost, it is essential to recognize that success is a multifaceted concept and should not be limited to conventional notions. True success lies in the pursuit of personal goals, the ability to find happiness, and the impact one can make in the lives of others. Disabilities bring diversity to the table, fostering innovation, empathy, and creativity. By embracing this diversity and redefining success, society can create a more inclusive and empowering environment for everyone.

There are numerous examples of individuals with disabilities who have triumphed over adversity and achieved extraordinary success in various fields. One such individual is Stephen Hawking, a renowned physicist who made groundbreaking contributions to our understanding of the universe despite being diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) at a young age. Hawking’s brilliance, intellect, and determination allowed him to overcome physical limitations and become one of the most influential scientists of our time.

Another inspiring figure is Stevie Wonder, a legendary musician, and songwriter who has been blind since infancy. Despite his visual impairment, Wonder has created timeless music that resonates with millions of people worldwide. His ability to connect with others through his art demonstrates that disabilities do not hinder talent or creativity.

Moreover, the Paralympic Games serve as a testament to the indomitable spirit and athletic prowess of individuals with disabilities. These athletes, who face physical challenges daily, have shattered records, won medals, and inspired generations. Their achievements showcase that disabilities should not be perceived as barriers to athletic excellence.

Success often requires adapting to circumstances and overcoming challenges, regardless of one’s abilities. People with disabilities possess a unique set of skills and perspectives, honed through their experiences and the adaptations they have made in their lives. This adaptability allows them to find innovative solutions and think outside the box, leading to breakthroughs in various fields.

It is crucial to acknowledge that the support system and accessibility play a vital role in enabling individuals with disabilities to succeed. Providing reasonable accommodations, inclusive education, and equal employment opportunities are essential in removing the barriers that society imposes. When provided with the necessary tools and support, individuals with disabilities can excel and contribute to society in meaningful ways.

Disability should never be viewed as an obstacle to success. The stories of remarkable individuals like Stephen Hawking, Stevie Wonder, and Paralympic athletes are testaments to the potential and resilience found within the disabled community. By embracing diversity, redefining success, and fostering an inclusive environment, society can create opportunities for individuals with disabilities to thrive and contribute their unique talents to the world. Ultimately, success lies not in the absence of disabilities but in the limitless potential and indomitable spirit of the human spirit.

You May Also Like

  • Essay on my favourite teacher
  • Essay on Good Habits

Q. Can individuals with disabilities achieve success?

Ans: Yes, individuals with disabilities can achieve success through determination, resilience, and equal opportunities.

Q. Are there successful examples of people with disabilities?

Ans: Yes, there are numerous successful individuals with disabilities such as Stephen Hawking, Stevie Wonder, and Paralympic athletes.

Q. Does disability limit intellectual abilities?

Ans: No, disability does not limit intellectual abilities, and many individuals with disabilities have excelled academically and professionally.

Q. Can individuals with disabilities thrive in the arts and entertainment industry?

Ans: Absolutely, individuals with disabilities have proven their talents in the arts and entertainment industry, breaking stereotypes and achieving recognition.

Q. Do disabled athletes excel in sports?

Ans: Yes, disabled athletes excel in sports, as demonstrated by the incredible achievements of Paralympic athletes who defy physical limitations.

Q. How can society support the success of individuals with disabilities?

Ans: Society can support the success of individuals with disabilities by providing accessibility, reasonable accommodations, and equal opportunities in education, employment, and public spaces.

We hope you like this post about essay on Disability is not an obstacle for success in English . We are very glad to help the students to do their homework in an effective way. This was a “Disability is not an obstacle for success ka essay English mein” . This type of questions generally asked the students in their schools to write essay on Disability is not an obstacle for success.

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Disability is not an Obstacle to Success

Disability refers to the condition of being physically or mentally disabled or challenged. Some are blind, dumb and deaf. Others are crippled or mentally abnormal. The physically disabled are those physically handicapped such as the crippled, the blind, the mute as well those having some form of physical deformities. Most often, they are dependent on other people. Those mentally disabled suffer from mental retardation such as cerebral palsy and down syndrome among others. They look upon themselves as the burden of their families and an inferiority complex dogs them as long as they live.

“Disability need not be an obstacle to success,” Stephen Hawking wrote in the first-ever world disability report back in 2011. There are thousands of disabled people in Asia and many face discrimination on a regular basis which takes many forms. Very few employers hire disabled people as the latter is considered more a liability than an asset in the organization. However, these fears are completely unfounded. People with physical disabilities are not neglected class of people. Many blind and hearing impaired persons have contributed tremendously to organizations they are attached to. In fact, there are many cases of how disabled personalities have done themselves proud by being their own bosses. Their success stories include those on how to run their own business such as shops, restaurants, handicraft centers in addition to those who have become teachers and professionals through sheer hard work and determination. Many have even become successful sportspersons participating in Paralympics Games and winning medals. It has been proved that physical disability cannot stand in the way of one’s flowering into a celebrity.

The government should introduce steps to ensure all disabled people have access to education and employment. The Government provides the physically disabled students with stipends for education. In fact, special legislation and laws ought to be introduced that make it compulsory for employers to allocate a certain number of jobs for the disabled. The Welfare department too should provide financial assistance and medical access to disabled persons who come from poor backgrounds.

Ongoing campaigns to educated society on the need to accept and live in harmony with the disabled, rather than treat them as burdens or pariahs, need to be launched. In fact, the awareness should start from a young age. Instead of setting up special schools for the disabled, the government should institute regulations that abolish such schools and the disabled children sent to regular schools. In this regard, the discrimination of people with disabilities persists because the power of prejudices and biases is very strong.

In addition, most of our public infrastructure, public transport, and government buildings are not disabled-friendly. There has to be a concerted effort to ensure the disabled have access to these places and not feel hampered in any way.

Thus, it is high time that we accept the disabled as an important component of our society. Despite their handicap, they play an important role in our lives and at the same time, they need our respect, acceptance, and understanding.

Winter in Bangladesh

The value of discipline in academic life, jamuna multipurpose bridge, merits and demerits of globalization, report on navana group limited, sample application to change college, assignment on major cultural shift of change in bangladesh, zooplankton – a component of aquatic food webs, new research contradicts the popular belief that salt marshes form from marine debris washed ashore during storms, orphaned bobcat brother and sister have been returned to the wild in monterey, latest post, key features and characteristics of the continental crust, diaphragm valves, droughts in europe could be averted by reducing emissions faster, global research on coastal oceans as carbon dioxide stores, researchers examine how freshwater diatoms remain in the light, wetting current.

What are your chances of acceptance?

Calculate for all schools, your chance of acceptance.

Duke University

Your chancing factors

Extracurriculars.

essay on disability not an obstacle to success

How to Write the “Overcoming Challenges” Essay + Examples

What’s covered:.

  • What is the Overcoming Challenges Essay?
  • Real Overcoming Challenges Essay Prompts
  • How to Choose a Topic
  • Writing Tips

Overcoming Challenges Essay Examples

  • Where to Get Your Essay Edited

While any college essay can be intimidating, the Overcoming Challenges prompt often worries students the most. Those students who’ve been lucky enough not to experience trauma tend to assume they have nothing worth saying. On the other hand, students who’ve overcome larger obstacles may be hesitant to talk about them.

Regardless of your particular circumstances, there are steps you can take to make the essay writing process simpler. Here are our top tips for writing the overcoming challenges essay successfully.

What is the “Overcoming Challenges” Essay?

The overcoming challenges prompt shows up frequently in both main application essays (like the Common App) and supplemental essays. Because supplemental essays allow students to provide schools with additional information, applicants should be sure that the subject matter they choose to write about differs from what’s in their main essay.

Students often assume the overcoming challenges essay requires them to detail past traumas. While you can certainly write about an experience that’s had a profound effect on your life, it’s important to remember that colleges aren’t evaluating students based on the seriousness of the obstacle they overcame.

On the contrary, the goal of this essay is to show admissions officers that you have the intelligence and fortitude to handle any challenges that come your way. After all, college serves as an introduction to adult life, and schools want to know that the students they admit are up to the task. 

Real “Overcoming Challenges” Essay Prompts

To help you understand what the “Overcoming Challenges” essay looks like, here are a couple sample prompts.

Currently, the Common Application asks students to answer the following prompt in 650 words or less:

“The lessons we take from obstacles we encounter can be fundamental to later success. Recount a time when you faced a challenge, setback, or failure. How did it affect you, and what did you learn from the experience?”

For the past several years, MIT has prompted students to write 200 to 250 words on the following:

“Tell us about the most significant challenge you’ve faced or something important that didn’t go according to plan. How did you manage the situation?”

In both cases, the prompts explicitly ask for your response to the challenge. The event itself isn’t as important as how it pushed you to grow.

How to Choose a Topic for an Essay on Overcoming Challenges

When it comes to finding the best topic for your overcoming challenges essays, there’s no right answer. The word “challenge” is ambiguous and could be used to reference a wide range of situations from prevailing over a bully to getting over your lifelong stage fright to appear in a school musical. Here are some suggestions to keep in mind when selecting an essay subject.

1. Avoid trivial or common topics

While there aren’t many hard-and-fast rules for choosing an essay topic, students should avoid overdone topics.

These include:

  • Working hard in a challenging class
  • Overcoming a sports injury
  • Moving schools or immigrating to the US
  • Tragedy (divorce, death, abuse)

Admissions officers have read numerous essays on the subject, so it’s harder for you to stand out (see our full list of cliché college essay topics to avoid ). If events like these were truly formative to you, you can still choose to write about them, but you’ll need to be as personal as possible. 

It’s also ideal if you have a less traditional storyline for a cliché topic; for example, if your sports injury led you to discover a new passion, that would be a more unique story than detailing how you overcame your injury and got back in the game.

Similarly, students may not want to write about an obstacle that admissions committees could perceive as low stakes, such as getting a B on a test, or getting into a small fight with a friend. The goal of this essay is to illustrate how you respond to adversity, so the topic you pick should’ve been at least impactful on your personal growth.

2. Pick challenges that demonstrate qualities you want to highlight

Students often mistakenly assume they need to have experienced exceptional circumstances like poverty, an abusive parent, or cancer to write a good essay. The truth is that the best topics will allow you to highlight specific personal qualities and share more about who you are. The essay should be less about the challenge itself, and more about how you responded to it.

Ask yourself what personality traits you want to emphasize, and see what’s missing in your application. Maybe you want to highlight your adaptability, for example, but that isn’t clearly expressed in your application. In this case, you might write about a challenge that put your adaptability to the test, or shaped you to become more adaptable.

Here are some examples of good topics we’ve seen over the years:

  • Not having a coach for a sports team and becoming one yourself
  • Helping a parent through a serious health issue
  • Trying to get the school track dedicated to a coach
  • Having to switch your Model UN position last-minute

Tips for Writing an Essay About Overcoming Challenges

Once you’ve selected a topic for your essays, it’s time to sit down and write. For best results, make sure your essay focuses on your efforts to tackle an obstacle rather than the problem itself. Additionally, you could avoid essay writing pitfalls by doing the following:

1. Choose an original essay structure

If you want your overcoming challenges essay to attract attention, aim to break away from more traditional structures. Most of these essays start by describing an unsuccessful attempt at a goal and then explain the steps the writer took to master the challenge. 

You can stand out by choosing a challenge you’re still working on overcoming, or focus on a mental or emotional challenge that spans multiple activities or events. For example, you might discuss your fear of public speaking and how that impacted your ability to coach your brother’s Little League team and run for Student Council. 

You can also choose a challenge that can be narrated in the moment, such as being put on the spot to teach a yoga class. These challenges can make particularly engaging essays, as you get to experience the writer’s thoughts and emotions as they unfold.

Keep in mind that you don’t necessarily need to have succeeded in your goal for this essay. Maybe you ran for an election and lost, or maybe you proposed a measure to the school board that wasn’t passed. It’s still possible to write a strong essay about topics like these as long as you focus on your personal growth. In fact, these may make for even stronger essays since they are more unconventional topics.

2. Focus on the internal

When writing about past experiences, you may be tempted to spend too much time describing specific people and events. With an Overcoming Challenges essay though, the goal is to focus on your thoughts and feelings.

For example, rather than detail all the steps you took to become a better public speaker, use the majority of your essay to describe your mental state as you embarked on the journey to achieving your goals. Were you excited, scared, anxious, or hopeful? Don’t be afraid to let the reader in on your innermost emotions and thoughts during this process.

3. Share what you learned 

An Overcoming Challenges essay should leave the reader with a clear understanding of what you learned on your journey, be it physical, mental, or emotional. There’s no need to explicitly say “this experience taught me X,” but your essay should at least implicitly share any lessons you learned. This can be done through your actions and in-the-moment reflections. Remember that the goal is to show admissions committees why your experiences make you a great candidate for admission. 

Was I no longer the beloved daughter of nature, whisperer of trees? Knee-high rubber boots, camouflage, bug spray—I wore the g arb and perfume of a proud wild woman, yet there I was, hunched over the pathetic pile of stubborn sticks, utterly stumped, on the verge of tears. As a child, I had considered myself a kind of rustic princess, a cradler of spiders and centipedes, who was serenaded by mourning doves and chickadees, who could glide through tick-infested meadows and emerge Lyme-free. I knew the cracks of the earth like the scars on my own rough palms. Yet here I was, ten years later, incapable of performing the most fundamental outdoor task: I could not, for the life of me, start a fire. 

Furiously I rubbed the twigs together—rubbed and rubbed until shreds of skin flaked from my fingers. No smoke. The twigs were too young, too sticky-green; I tossed them away with a shower of curses, and began tearing through the underbrush in search of a more flammable collection. My efforts were fruitless. Livid, I bit a rejected twig, determined to prove that the forest had spurned me, offering only young, wet bones that would never burn. But the wood cracked like carrots between my teeth—old, brittle, and bitter. Roaring and nursing my aching palms, I retreated to the tent, where I sulked and awaited the jeers of my family. 

Rattling their empty worm cans and reeking of fat fish, my brother and cousins swaggered into the campsite. Immediately, they noticed the minor stick massacre by the fire pit and called to me, their deep voices already sharp with contempt. 

“Where’s the fire, Princess Clara?” they taunted. “Having some trouble?” They prodded me with the ends of the chewed branches and, with a few effortless scrapes of wood on rock, sparked a red and roaring flame. My face burned long after I left the fire pit. The camp stank of salmon and shame. 

In the tent, I pondered my failure. Was I so dainty? Was I that incapable? I thought of my hands, how calloused and capable they had been, how tender and smooth they had become. It had been years since I’d kneaded mud between my fingers; instead of scaling a white pine, I’d practiced scales on my piano, my hands softening into those of a musician—fleshy and sensitive. And I’d gotten glasses, having grown horrifically nearsighted; long nights of dim lighting and thick books had done this. I couldn’t remember the last time I had lain down on a hill, barefaced, and seen the stars without having to squint. Crawling along the edge of the tent, a spider confirmed my transformation—he disgusted me, and I felt an overwhelming urge to squash him. 

Yet, I realized I hadn’t really changed—I had only shifted perspective. I still eagerly explored new worlds, but through poems and prose rather than pastures and puddles. I’d grown to prefer the boom of a bass over that of a bullfrog, learned to coax a different kind of fire from wood, having developed a burn for writing rhymes and scrawling hypotheses. 

That night, I stayed up late with my journal and wrote about the spider I had decided not to kill. I had tolerated him just barely, only shrieking when he jumped—it helped to watch him decorate the corners of the tent with his delicate webs, knowing that he couldn’t start fires, either. When the night grew cold and the embers died, my words still smoked—my hands burned from all that scrawling—and even when I fell asleep, the ideas kept sparking—I was on fire, always on fire.

This essay is an excellent example because the writer turns an everyday challenge—starting a fire—into an exploration of her identity. The writer was once “a kind of rustic princess, a cradler of spiders and centipedes,” but has since traded her love of the outdoors for a love of music, writing, and reading. 

The story begins in media res , or in the middle of the action, allowing readers to feel as if we’re there with the writer. One of the essay’s biggest strengths is its use of imagery. We can easily visualize the writer’s childhood and the present day. For instance, she states that she “rubbed and rubbed [the twigs] until shreds of skin flaked from my fingers.”

The writing has an extremely literary quality, particularly with its wordplay. The writer reappropriates words and meanings, and even appeals to the senses: “My face burned long after I left the fire pit. The camp stank of salmon and shame.” She later uses a parallelism to cleverly juxtapose her changed interests: “instead of scaling a white pine, I’d practiced scales on my piano.”

One of the essay’s main areas of improvement is its overemphasis on the “story” and lack of emphasis on the reflection. The second to last paragraph about changing perspective is crucial to the essay, as it ties the anecdote to larger lessons in the writer’s life. She states that she hasn’t changed, but has only shifted perspective. Yet, we don’t get a good sense of where this realization comes from and how it impacts her life going forward. 

The end of the essay offers a satisfying return to the fire imagery, and highlights the writer’s passion—the one thing that has remained constant in her life.

“Getting beat is one thing – it’s part of competing – but I want no part in losing.” Coach Rob Stark’s motto never fails to remind me of his encouragement on early-morning bus rides to track meets around the state. I’ve always appreciated the phrase, but an experience last June helped me understand its more profound, universal meaning.

Stark, as we affectionately call him, has coached track at my high school for 25 years. His care, dedication, and emphasis on developing good character has left an enduring impact on me and hundreds of other students. Not only did he help me discover my talent and love for running, but he also taught me the importance of commitment and discipline and to approach every endeavor with the passion and intensity that I bring to running. When I learned a neighboring high school had dedicated their track to a longtime coach, I felt that Stark deserved similar honors.

Our school district’s board of education indicated they would only dedicate our track to Stark if I could demonstrate that he was extraordinary. I took charge and mobilized my teammates to distribute petitions, reach out to alumni, and compile statistics on the many team and individual champions Stark had coached over the years. We received astounding support, collecting almost 3,000 signatures and pages of endorsements from across the community. With help from my teammates, I presented this evidence to the board.

They didn’t bite. 

Most members argued that dedicating the track was a low priority. Knowing that we had to act quickly to convince them of its importance, I called a team meeting where we drafted a rebuttal for the next board meeting. To my surprise, they chose me to deliver it. I was far from the best public speaker in the group, and I felt nervous about going before the unsympathetic board again. However, at that second meeting, I discovered that I enjoy articulating and arguing for something that I’m passionate about.

Public speaking resembles a cross country race. Walking to the starting line, you have to trust your training and quell your last minute doubts. When the gun fires, you can’t think too hard about anything; your performance has to be instinctual, natural, even relaxed. At the next board meeting, the podium was my starting line. As I walked up to it, familiar butterflies fluttered in my stomach. Instead of the track stretching out in front of me, I faced the vast audience of teachers, board members, and my teammates. I felt my adrenaline build, and reassured myself: I’ve put in the work, my argument is powerful and sound. As the board president told me to introduce myself, I heard, “runners set” in the back of my mind. She finished speaking, and Bang! The brief silence was the gunshot for me to begin. 

The next few minutes blurred together, but when the dust settled, I knew from the board members’ expressions and the audience’s thunderous approval that I had run quite a race. Unfortunately, it wasn’t enough; the board voted down our proposal. I was disappointed, but proud of myself, my team, and our collaboration off the track. We stood up for a cause we believed in, and I overcame my worries about being a leader. Although I discovered that changing the status quo through an elected body can be a painstakingly difficult process and requires perseverance, I learned that I enjoy the challenges this effort offers. Last month, one of the school board members joked that I had become a “regular” – I now often show up to meetings to advocate for a variety of causes, including better environmental practices in cafeterias and safer equipment for athletes.

Just as Stark taught me, I worked passionately to achieve my goal. I may have been beaten when I appealed to the board, but I certainly didn’t lose, and that would have made Stark proud.

While the writer didn’t succeed in getting the track dedicated to Coach Stark, their essay is certainly successful in showing their willingness to push themselves and take initiative.

The essay opens with a quote from Coach Stark that later comes full circle at the end of the essay. We learn about Stark’s impact and the motivation for trying to get the track dedicated to him.

One of the biggest areas of improvement in the intro, however, is how the essay tells us Stark’s impact rather than showing us: His care, dedication, and emphasis on developing good character has left an enduring impact on me and hundreds of other students. Not only did he help me discover my talent and love for running, but he also taught me the importance of commitment and discipline and to approach every endeavor with the passion and intensity that I bring to running.

The writer could’ve helped us feel a stronger emotional connection to Stark if they had included examples of Stark’s qualities, rather than explicitly stating them. For example, they could’ve written something like: Stark was the kind of person who would give you gas money if you told him your parents couldn’t afford to pick you up from practice. And he actually did that—several times. At track meets, alumni regularly would come talk to him and tell him how he’d changed their lives. Before Stark, I was ambivalent about running and was on the JV team, but his encouragement motivated me to run longer and harder and eventually make varsity. Because of him, I approach every endeavor with the passion and intensity that I bring to running.

The essay goes on to explain how the writer overcame their apprehension of public speaking, and likens the process of submitting an appeal to the school board to running a race. This metaphor makes the writing more engaging and allows us to feel the student’s emotions.

While the student didn’t ultimately succeed in getting the track dedicated, we learn about their resilience and initiative: I now often show up to meetings to advocate for a variety of causes, including better environmental practices in cafeterias and safer equipment for athletes.

Overall, this essay is well-done. It demonstrates growth despite failing to meet a goal, which is a unique essay structure. The running metaphor and full-circle intro/ending also elevate the writing in this essay.

Where to Get Your Overcoming Challenges Essay Edited

The Overcoming Challenges essay is one of the trickier supplemental prompts, so it’s important to get feedback on your drafts. That’s why we created our free Peer Essay Review tool , where you can get a free review of your essay from another student. You can also improve your own writing skills by reviewing other students’ essays. 

If you want a college admissions expert to review your essay, advisors on CollegeVine have helped students refine their writing and submit successful applications to top schools. Find the right advisor for you to improve your chances of getting into your dream school!

Related CollegeVine Blog Posts

essay on disability not an obstacle to success

drought case study slideshare

drought case study slideshare

Synctech Learn: Helping Students in, Nibandh,10 lines essays

Simple essay on Disability is not an obstacle for success in English

Today, we are sharing Essay on Disability is not an obstacle for success in English . This article can help the students who are looking for essay on Disability is not an obstacle for success in Hindi . This is the simple and short essay on Disability is not an obstacle for success which is very easy to understand it line by line. The level of this article is mid-level so, it will be helpful for small and big student and they can easily write on this topic. This is the Long essay on Disability is not an obstacle for success that will be useful for class 5, class 6, and class 7, class 8, 9, 10 .

essay on Disability is not an obstacle for success in English

Essay on Disability is not an obstacle for success in English

Introduction.

In a world that often emphasizes physical and mental limitations, it is imperative to recognize that disability does not serve as an insurmountable obstacle to achieving success. While disabilities may present certain challenges, they do not define a person's abilities or limit their potential. This essay explores the notion that with determination, resilience, and equal opportunities, individuals with disabilities can overcome barriers and achieve remarkable accomplishments across various domains.

The Power of Determination and Resilience

One of the key factors that contribute to success is an individual's determination to overcome obstacles. People with disabilities often develop an extraordinary level of resilience, having faced adversity throughout their lives. This resilience allows them to confront challenges head-on, find alternative solutions, and persevere in the face of setbacks. By harnessing their determination and resilience, individuals with disabilities can navigate a path toward success.

Education and Professional Achievements

Education plays a vital role in empowering individuals with disabilities and equipping them with the necessary skills to succeed. Through inclusive educational practices, adapted teaching methods, and support systems, individuals with disabilities can acquire knowledge and expertise in various fields. Countless disabled individuals have achieved significant accomplishments in academia, business, arts, and other professional domains, proving that disability does not restrict intellectual prowess or career advancement.

Prominent Examples of Success

Numerous individuals with disabilities have left an indelible mark on society through their achievements. Helen Keller, who was both deaf and blind, overcame these sensory challenges to become an influential author, political activist, and lecturer. Her determination to communicate and her profound insights continue to inspire generations.

Temple Grandin, an accomplished professor, and autism advocate, has revolutionized the field of animal science and autism awareness. Despite her autism diagnosis, Grandin's unique perspective and heightened sensory awareness have enabled her to make groundbreaking contributions to animal behavior and welfare.

Breaking Stereotypes in the Arts and Entertainment

The world of arts and entertainment has witnessed the triumph of disabled individuals who have shattered stereotypes and proven their extraordinary talents. Actors such as Marlee Matlin, who is deaf, have achieved critical acclaim and won prestigious awards. Matlin's exceptional performances have showcased that talent knows no boundaries, and individuals with disabilities can excel in the competitive world of entertainment.

Sporting Excellence and the Paralympic Movement

The Paralympic Games stand as a testament to the power of ability over disability. Athletes with various physical disabilities compete at the highest level, demonstrating exceptional skill, strength, and determination. These athletes have shattered records and inspired millions worldwide. Their achievements underscore the fact that disabilities do not hinder athletic prowess or the pursuit of excellence.

Changing Perspectives and Embracing Inclusion

To ensure that disability is not a hindrance to success, it is crucial for society to adopt a more inclusive mindset. Accessibility and reasonable accommodations must be provided in all aspects of life, including education, employment, and public spaces. By dismantling physical and attitudinal barriers, society can create an environment that fosters equal opportunities and empowers individuals with disabilities to reach their full potential.

Disability does not equate to inability. Through determination, resilience, and equal opportunities, individuals with disabilities can overcome barriers and achieve remarkable success. The stories of Helen Keller, Temple Grandin, Marlee Matlin, and Paralympic athletes exemplify the triumph of ability over disability. By embracing inclusion, providing necessary support, and changing societal perceptions, we can create a world where disabilities are not viewed as obstacles but rather as unique characteristics that contribute to the richness of human potential.

essay on disability not an obstacle to success

Q. Can disabilities be seen as strengths rather than weaknesses?

Ans: Yes, disabilities can be seen as strengths as they bring unique perspectives, creativity, and problem-solving abilities.

Q. Are individuals with disabilities limited in their career choices?

Ans: No, individuals with disabilities have a wide range of career choices and can excel in various fields based on their skills, qualifications, and interests.

Q. Do individuals with disabilities need special treatment or pity?

Ans: No, individuals with disabilities do not need pity or special treatment. They require equal opportunities, respect, and support to thrive like anyone else.

Q. Can individuals with disabilities lead independent lives?

Ans: Absolutely, individuals with disabilities can lead independent lives with the right support systems, assistive technologies, and accessible environments.

Q. Are people with invisible disabilities overlooked or misunderstood?

Ans: Yes, people with invisible disabilities, such as chronic illnesses or mental health conditions, are often misunderstood or overlooked due to their condition not being visible. Awareness and empathy are crucial in addressing this issue.

Q. How can society become more inclusive towards individuals with disabilities?

Ans: Society can become more inclusive by promoting accessibility in infrastructure, education, and employment, fostering a culture of acceptance, and providing equal opportunities for individuals with disabilities to participate fully in all aspects of life.

Students studying in schools, are generaly asked by teachers to write essay on Disability is not an obstacle for success in English . We help the students to do their homework in an effective way. If you liked this article, then please comment below and tell us how you liked it. We use your comments to further improve our service. We hope you have got some learning about Disability is not an obstacle for success. You can also visit my YouTube channel which is https://www.youtube.com/synctechlearn. You can also follow us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/synctechlearn .

The article is about Long essay on Disability is not an obstacle for success in English. The level of this essay on Disability is not an obstacle for success is medium so any student can write on this topic. This short essay on Disability is not an obstacle for success is generally useful for class 5, class 6, and class 7, 8, 9, 10.

You might like

Post a comment, contact form.

  • Member Login

Customer Reviews

PenMyPaper

What is a good essay writing service?

Oddly enough, but many people still have not come across a quality service. A large number of users fall for deceivers who take their money without doing their job. And some still fulfill the agreements, but very badly.

A good essay writing service should first of all provide guarantees:

  • confidentiality of personal information;
  • for the terms of work;
  • for the timely transfer of the text to the customer;
  • for the previously agreed amount of money.

The company must have a polite support service that will competently advise the client, answer all questions and support until the end of the cooperation. Also, the team must get out of conflict situations correctly.

It is necessary to have several payment methods on the site to make it easier for the client to transfer money.

And of course, only highly qualified writers with a philological education should be present in the team, who will not make spelling and punctuation errors in the text, checking all the information and not stealing it from extraneous sites.

essay on disability not an obstacle to success

A writer who is an expert in the respective field of study will be assigned

Sharing Educational Goals

Our cheap essay service is a helping hand for those who want to reach academic success and have the perfect 4.0 GPA. Whatever kind of help you need, we will give it to you.

Still not convinced? Check out the best features of our service:

A standard essay helper is an expert we assign at no extra cost when your order is placed. Within minutes, after payment has been made, this type of writer takes on the job. A standard writer is the best option when you’re on a budget but the deadline isn’t burning. Within a couple of days, a new custom essay will be done for you from the ground up. Unique content, genuine research, spot-on APA/MLA formatting, and peerless grammar are guaranteed. Also, we’ll provide you with a free title page, bibliography, and plagiarism check. With a standard writer, you can count on a quality essay that will live up to all your expectations.

We suggest our customers use the original top-level work we provide as a study aid and not as final papers to be submitted in class. Order your custom work and get straight A's.

Finished Papers

IMAGES

  1. Essay on Disability is not an obstacle to success

    essay on disability not an obstacle to success

  2. Disability is not an obstacle to success. These inspirational leaders

    essay on disability not an obstacle to success

  3. essay on disability is not obstacle for success

    essay on disability not an obstacle to success

  4. Stephen Hawking Quote: “Disability need not be an obstacle to success.”

    essay on disability not an obstacle to success

  5. Stephen Hawking Quote: “Disability need not be an obstacle to success.”

    essay on disability not an obstacle to success

  6. Stephen Hawking Quote: “Disability need not be an obstacle to success.”

    essay on disability not an obstacle to success

VIDEO

  1. Litigating cases that lack of birth registration is not obstacle to going to school in South Africa

  2. challenges are not obstacle

  3. Disability is not an obstacle to do what you want and be happy!!

  4. Disability not an excuse #fashion #tailoring #learntosew #learning #shirtvideo #shirts

  5. Essay on cognitive disability

  6. Motivational Video

COMMENTS

  1. Disability is not an obstacle to success. These inspirational leaders

    "Disability need not be an obstacle to success," Stephen Hawking wrote in the first ever world disability report back in 2011. As one of the most influential scientists of modern times, the wheelchair-bound physicist is certainly proof of that. ... Today, the Helen Keller archives contain almost 500 speeches and essays on topics as varied ...

  2. Essay on Disability Is Not A Hindrance To Success

    250 Words Essay on Disability Is Not A Hindrance To Success Understanding Disability. Disability means when a person cannot do some things in the same way as most people. This might be due to a problem with the body or mind. It is important to know that having a disability does not stop someone from achieving success. Success Beyond Disability

  3. Disability is not an obstacle to success. These inspirational leaders

    "Disability need not be an obstacle to success," Stephen Hawking wrote in the first ever world disability report back in 2011. As one of the most influential scientists of modern times, the…

  4. Disability Is Not A Barrier To Success

    Disability is not to be seen as an obstacle. Many persons with impairments have succeeded in their life by overcoming all the challenges. Some tools for disabled people to achieve success are: Positivity and confidence in oneself. The key to success for someone with a disability is to be optimistic and confident in oneself.

  5. Let's talk about success and disability

    We should be pushed to achieve our goals and encouraged to do so. It's often our disability that isn't a barrier, it's people's perceptions on disability and success that are the problem. Attitudes and perceptions are creating even more barriers for disabled people in all aspects of life, and it's about time that we changed those ...

  6. Essay On Disability Is Not An Obstacle For Success

    In this Essay On Disability Is Not An Obstacle For Success Essay, we will learn about these inspiring individuals and see how disability is not a barrier to success. We will also talk about the importance of including everyone and how being determined and strong can help us overcome challenges. Essay On Disability Is Not An Obstacle For Success

  7. Foreword

    Disability need not be an obstacle to success. I have had motor neurone disease for practically all my adult life. Yet it has not prevented me from having a prominent career in astrophysics and a happy family life. Reading the World report on disability, I find much of relevance to my own experience. I have benefitted from access to first class ...

  8. Disability not an obstacle to success

    Disability not an obstacle to success. Every year, the International Day of Persons with Disabilities is marked on December 3. First proclaimed in 1992 by the United Nations General Assembly, the ...

  9. Is disability really an obstacle to success? Impact of a disability

    DOI: 10.1111/JASP.12564 Corpus ID: 149891092; Is disability really an obstacle to success? Impact of a disability simulation on motivation and performance @article{Cohen2019IsDR, title={Is disability really an obstacle to success?

  10. Is disability really an obstacle to success? Impact of a disability

    This simulated disability constituted an actual handicap to perform the task (Studies 1 and 2) or not (Studies 3 and 4). The first three studies were focused on cognitive abilities, whereas Study 4 introduced a job interview component.

  11. Essay on Disability is not an obstacle for success

    Simple essay on Disability is not an obstacle for success in English Introduction. The concept of success is often associated with overcoming challenges, pushing boundaries, and achieving one's goals. While society tends to perceive disability as a hindrance, the reality is that disability is not an obstacle for success.

  12. Disability is not an Obstacle to Success

    Disability is not an Obstacle to Success. Essay. Disability refers to the condition of being physically or mentally disabled or challenged. Some are blind, dumb and deaf. Others are crippled or mentally abnormal. The physically disabled are those physically handicapped such as the crippled, the blind, the mute as well those having some form of ...

  13. How to Write the "Overcoming Challenges" Essay + Examples

    1. Avoid trivial or common topics. While there aren't many hard-and-fast rules for choosing an essay topic, students should avoid overdone topics. These include: Working hard in a challenging class. Overcoming a sports injury. Moving schools or immigrating to the US. Tragedy (divorce, death, abuse)

  14. short essay on disability is not an obstacle for success

    Disability is not an obstacle to success. These inspirational leaders prove that. These leaders show that disability is no barrier to achieving incredible things Image: REUTERS/Mu

  15. Simple essay on Disability is not an obstacle for success in English

    Introduction. In a world that often emphasizes physical and mental limitations, it is imperative to recognize that disability does not serve as an insurmountable obstacle to achieving success. While disabilities may present certain challenges, they do not define a person's abilities or limit their potential. This essay explores the notion that ...

  16. Essay on disability is not a hindrance to success

    upenderjoshi28. report flag outlined. Disability is Not A Hindrance. Someone has very wisely said, "Hard things are put in our way, not to stop us, but to call out our courage and strength."People with disabilities are usually the strongest, most courageous and wonderful people. They are usually the strongest, most courageous and wonderful ...

  17. Essay On Disability Is Not An Obstacle To Success

    Essay On Disability Is Not An Obstacle To Success. Nursing Business and Economics Management Aviation +109. Research Paper. 100% Success rate. 2640 Orders prepared.

  18. Disability Is Not An Obstacle To Success In Life Essay

    By working with our essay writers, you can get a high-quality essay sample and use it as a template to help them succeed. Help your kids succeed and order a paper now! Disability Is Not An Obstacle To Success In Life Essay, Mla Format Research Paper Title Page, Pp Presentation, Thesis Submission Form, A Essay On A Perfect World, Grade Scale 6th ...

  19. Essay on disability is not an obstacle for success essay in english

    Answer: Disability is not an obstacle for success. Disability is not inability.Disability is there for only limbs (అవయవాలు) and senses but not for the spirit. This is true that disability is never an obstacle on the path of success many great people in spite of disabilities excelled in their life with their hard work,determination ...

  20. Essay On Disability Is Not An Obstacle To Success

    2269 Chestnut Street, #477 San Francisco CA 94123. Essay On Disability Is Not An Obstacle To Success, Soft And Hard C Sound Worksheets For 2nd Grade, Dissertation Ses La Croissance Economique Peut Elle Etre Soutenable, Resume For Spanish Interpreter, Custom Rhetorical Analysis Essay Writing Service Gb, References Format For Research Paper, Help ...