International Lefthanders Day: The Plight of the Lefty

International Lefthanders Day: The Plight of the Lefty

Did you know August 13 is International Lefthanders Day? Though many southpaws are proud of their uniqueness, throughout history, being left-handed has been shadowed by negative associations. The origin of the word “left” equates to “sinister.” In the middle ages, left-handers were not accepted in regular society because they were accused of practicing witchcraft.

Though their reputation has improved in modern culture, it still ain’t easy being a lefty. The truth of the matter is we live in a right-handed world. From kitchen items to pencils, desks, and doorknobs, lefties are often faced with rethinking everyday actions in reverse order. The extra brain juice takes a toll. In fact, studies show lefties tend to live 9 years less than the average right-handed person.

Despite the objections they face, many lefties have risen to be world leaders and famous throughout history. Think Barack Obama, Albert Einstein, Leonardo da Vinci, Julia Roberts, Oprah Winfrey, Bill Gates…to name a few. Among these great names are two of our Caine marketing members, Kate Dabbs and Virginia Wilson. We asked them a few questions to peek inside their lefty experience in a righty world.

 

Do you like being a lefty?

Kate – It’s always a fun fact to share during icebreaker games. Because I’m also a redhead, my mother used to comfort me by telling me I was extra special – only 3% of the population is redheaded and left-handed!

Virginia – Overall, I like being a lefty. It has its struggles, but I prefer to focus on the positive and lean into the notion that lefties are naturally bent toward creativity and intelligence…it’s what I tell myself anyway.

 

Do you do everything left-handed?

Kate – I write everything left-handed, but in sports I’m ambidextrous. Growing up, we learned to kick, throw, etc. with our right side, and it just stuck with me to figure out how to do it both ways.

Virginia – Similar to Kate, I do most things left handed. Writing, eating, and brushing my teeth are all strictly left-handed, but I play sports right-handed/footed.

 

In your experience, what has been the biggest struggle of being left-handed?

Kate – Two words. Can openers! I have spent upwards of $25 to get one that I can actually use with success. And smudging. I always prefer to write in cursive, but I hate having a hand covered in pencil or ink after finishing a page.

Virginia – For me, the biggest struggle is always bumping elbows with my righty friends at the dinner table. I typically sit in the far-left seat, but when I forget I run the risk of knocking forks out of hand mid-bite.

 

How did your parents react to you being left handed?

Kate – My older brother is left-handed, so they knew I would figure it out like he did.

Virginia – My dad was born left-handed, but his parents and teachers enforced using his right hand only. To this day he can write with either hand. When my parents realized I was a lefty, dad vindicated his natural born left-handedness by encouraging me in mine.

 

These two lefties have overcome the struggles of society and made their way in the world. In celebrating them on International Lefthanders Day, we asked them a word of advice for the other lefties out there. They both agreed to share your lefty-ness loud and proud! You feel an instant bond when you find someone else who shares your struggle. Also – take dance lessons…favoring your left-side in a right-side world requires extra practice.

 

About the Authors

Kate Dabbs is the Director of Marketing and Operations at Coldwell Banker Caine. She has a passion for being active and the outdoors. Her hobbies include reading, traveling, cooking with her husband, Dixon, and walking their black lab, Flo.

Virginia Wilson is the Marketing Content Specialist at Coldwell Banker Caine. As the content specialist, her job involves two of her favorite pastimes – social media & writing! Virginia also loves walking with friends, trying new coffee shops, and experimenting with recipes.