Are you right-brained or left-breained?

We’ve all heard the idea that we are either right or left brained. We all fall into a camp that is either more logical and analytical (left brained) or creative and intuitive (right brained). I have always been into the arts. I’m a daydreamer and musician. But I’m also very analytical and verbose, two traits of left brained people. So what gives?

While there are two separate and unique hemispheres of the brain, which are very much responsible for very different brain functions, they both work in unison to complete tasks. We might be more creative or more analytical by nature but those dominant traits have more to do with environment and genetics than the influence of one side of the brain. The complexity of the human brain is such that we can’t simplify it to such binary terms.

The important aspect of brain mechanics is doing all we can to keep our brains healthy and strong. Regular reading and writing are exercises that will tax the brain and develop myelin. Puzzles and word games and crosswords are like exercise for the brain and can keep that cognitive side sharp. Taking an art class or learning a new instrument can help us to grow our creative side. And physical exercise and proper nutrition feeds it all.

Bottom line is, our predilections for creativity or logic are based on far more factors than just which side of the brain is more active. Like all neuromyths, there is a basis in fact but we should always be cautious when basing our decisions or behaviors upon mythology. Don’t limit your growth because of some perceived inherent traits. Instead, challenge them. That’s how we grow.