August 13 is Left-Handers Day, a celebration of the unique, creative, and sometimes misunderstood world of left-handed people. While only about 10% of the global population is left-handed, they’ve left an outsized mark on history, culture, and science. But beyond the obvious “they write with their left hand,” there’s a lot more you probably don’t know about them.

1. They’re Wired Differently — Literally

Left-handedness is linked to differences in brain structure. While most people have language centers concentrated in the left hemisphere, lefties are more likely to have these centers distributed across both hemispheres. This can contribute to more flexible thinking, quicker adaptation, and in some cases, a boost in creativity.

2. They’ve Had to Navigate a Right-Handed World for Centuries

From scissors to school desks to musical instruments, everyday tools are often designed with right-handers in mind. Historically, left-handedness was even discouraged, with children being forced to switch hands. Yet, lefties adapted, a skill that may contribute to their resourcefulness today.

3. They’re Overrepresented Among High Achievers

Many leaders, artists, and innovators are left-handed, think Leonardo da Vinci, Oprah Winfrey, and former U.S. Presidents like Barack Obama. While it’s not a magic recipe for success, researchers suggest that lefties’ unique brain wiring and adaptability can give them an edge in problem-solving and unconventional thinking.

4. Sports Can Be Their Secret Weapon

In sports like tennis, baseball, and boxing, left-handed athletes often have a natural advantage. Opponents are less accustomed to their playing style, making their moves harder to anticipate. This partly explains why lefties are disproportionately represented among champions in certain sports.

5. They May Be More Susceptible to Certain Challenges

Being left-handed isn’t all perks. Studies have linked left-handedness to a slightly higher risk of developing certain learning differences or autoimmune conditions. However, these risks are generally small, and many left-handed individuals live perfectly healthy lives — while still enjoying their creative and cognitive strengths.

Left-handed people may be in the minority, but they’ve shaped the world in remarkable ways. So if you know a leftie, today’s the perfect time to celebrate their unique perspective and maybe buy them a left-handed mug or guitar, just because.