Many of us might have been intrigued with left handed people. While only 10% of the world’s population is left-handed, the trait comes with fascinating quirks, surprising advantages, and a history rich in myths.’
Every year, International Left-Handers Day is observed on August 13. The day celebrates the distinctiveness and skills of left-handed people and raises awareness of the challenges they face in a right-handed world.
Here are some facts about left handed people, we bet you did not know!
You become left handed in the womb
According to the BBC, psychologist Peter Hepper uncovered a remarkable connection between thumb-sucking in the womb and future hand preference. His research revealed that 90% of babies who preferred their right thumb in utero grew up right-handed, while an astonishing 75% of left-thumb suckers became left-handed. This early wiring suggests that left-handedness isn’t just a quirky twist of fate!
Some are scared of left-handers
Sinistrophobia is an irrational fear of the left side, especially left-handedness or left-handed individuals. People with this phobia may avoid using their left hand, touching objects on their left, or interacting with left-handers altogether.
Though uncommon, it highlights how deep-rooted social biases and misconceptions about handedness can influence behavior and perceptions in subtle yet significant ways.
Lefty typing speed>>righty typing speed
Several reports suggest that left-handers can type over 3,000 English words using only the left-hand side of a QWERTY keyboard, compared to a mere 300 for right-handers. That’s a staggering tenfold advantage, proving that when it comes to certain skill sets, the left side has its advantage.
Popular celebrities who are left handed
The list of famous lefties spans music, film, and television, from Justin Bieber’s global pop dominance to Oprah Winfrey.
In India, legends like Amitabh Bachchan and rising stars such as Aditya Roy Kapur and Sonakshi Sinha are also part of the left-handed circle. Their success across diverse fields reinforces the idea that left-handedness isn’t a limitation!
From the womb to the world stage, left-handedness continues to fascinate scientists, inspire creatives, and challenge old stereotypes.
