(Note: I use AI to help me translate my stories from Japanese to English.)
I am right-handed, and I’ve always used my right hand to write.
About a month ago, the idea of practicing with my nondominant hand suddenly came to me. It sounded interesting. I thought that by using my nondominant hand, I might discover a new version of myself, so I decided to try it.
They say that if you use your right hand, your left brain is stimulated, and if you use your left hand, your right brain is stimulated. Right-handed people are said to rely heavily on their left brain.
So I wondered what would happen if I practiced using my left hand more.
I used an English textbook, a pen, and a notebook, and copied the same English sentences — about 50 words — with my left hand every morning for 38 days.
It took me about seven minutes each time. I practiced with my left hand for seven minutes every morning.
Day 1:
When I first wrote with my left hand, it felt very uncomfortable and awkward. I felt like a child learning to write for the first time.
It was hard to hold the pen firmly. I even felt nervous while writing.
But after I finished, I felt a sense of accomplishment — almost like finishing a meditation session.
Day 3:
I started getting used to writing with my left hand. I was happy because I could see my own improvement and growth.
Day 8:
I began to think that writing with my left hand was easier than I had expected.
Day 9:
I still couldn’t write well, but I found myself writing more unconsciously.
The hardest part was figuring out how to move my left hand. When I write with my right hand, I “pull” my hand as I write. But with my left hand, I have to “push” it instead.
Day 10:
I started to like the letters I wrote with my left hand. They look serious — clumsy, but cute.
Day 11:
I began to enjoy writing with my left hand. It felt like a small adventure, refreshing and new.
After writing the same sentences for 38 days, my handwriting hasn’t improved very much compared with Day 1, but now I can write with my left hand without thinking about it.
I don’t copy the same sentences anymore. Instead, I write a journal with my left hand every day. It’s interesting and enjoyable, so I want to continue.
Did I change after 38 days of writing with my left hand?
I haven’t noticed any big changes yet, but I feel that I’ve become a little more comfortable with doing tiring or uncomfortable things.
Practicing your nondominant hand might make you mentally stronger.
If you need excitement, a new challenge, or a new hobby, try practicing with your nondominant hand!