International Lefthanders Day — simple ways to celebrate and live better as a lefty
Did you know about 10% of people are left-handed? International Lefthanders Day, held every August 13, is a quick reminder to notice the small design problems lefties face — and to celebrate the benefits of being left-handed. This page gives you easy, useful info: what the day is, how to mark it, and actions you can take right now to make life simpler for left-handers around you.
What the day is and why it matters
International Lefthanders Day began in 1992 as a way to raise awareness about the everyday challenges left-handers meet. It’s not about pity — it’s practical. Many tools, school desks, and even kitchen gadgets are built for right-handed people. That adds friction to school, work, cooking and sports for lefties. The day is a chance to spot those friction points and fix them where we can.
How to celebrate — quick ideas that actually help
Want to mark the day without overdoing it? Try these simple moves: swap to left-handed scissors at school or the office, rearrange your workspace so mouse and notepads are left-side friendly, or test a left-handed guitar at a shop. Host a short meet-up or online chat to share tips. Use the hashtag #LeftHandersDay to find local events or connect with other lefties. Little changes can make a big difference.
If you run a school or business, celebrate by checking tools and furniture for lefty access. Offer a left-handed option at stationery stores and make sure classroom seating doesn’t force left-handers to sit awkwardly. For parents, teach kids to position paper and books in a way that helps clear writing strokes — a small habit that improves comfort and neatness.
Shopping for gifts? Pick items made for left-handers: left-handed pens with a comfortable grip, ergonomic kitchen knives, or notebooks with the binding on the right. These are thoughtful and actually useful presents any lefty will appreciate.
Sport and hobbies also matter. Coaches can include left-handed drills so players don’t feel left out. For music, let a lefty try instruments set up for them instead of forcing a right-handed setup. These changes help performance and confidence.
At home, swap a few everyday items: a left-handed can opener, a mirror on a swivel that favors left-side use, or moving frequently used items to the left side of the counter. These fixes cost little but cut daily annoyance.
Want facts to share on the day? Mention that lefties are overrepresented in creative fields and sports where a left angle is an advantage. Use that to spark conversation — it turns a gripe into something positive.
International Lefthanders Day is an easy moment to start practical change. Make one swap, start one conversation, or buy one lefty-friendly tool. Small actions add up and make life noticeably better for left-handed people in your circle.
