Busting the Brain Myth: You're Not Left-Brained or Right-Brained

For decades, we've been told that people are either "left-brained" (logical, analytical, and detail-oriented) or "right-brained" (creative, intuitive, and emotional). But what if this popular belief is completely wrong? In this episode of Neuroblast, Athena and guest neuroscientist Tracey Tokuhama-Espinosa take a closer look at the truth behind brain function—and reveal why this myth might be holding you back more than helping you.

The Origins of Persistent Left Brained, Right Brained People

The left-brain/right-brain narrative originated from real scientific discoveries in the mid-20th century. Researchers studying patients with brain injuries or those who had undergone split-brain surgeries found that damage to certain areas—especially in the left hemisphere—led to specific deficits, such as problems with speech. Over time, these findings were oversimplified and turned into a binary narrative: the left side of the brain handles logic and language, while the right side handles emotion and creativity.

While it’s true that some brain functions are more dominant in one hemisphere than the other, neuroscience has since moved far beyond that basic framework. The brain doesn’t operate like a divided office space with specific tasks assigned to specific rooms. Instead, it functions more like a bustling city, with constant communication flowing between regions and hemispheres.

The Reality: A Brain Built on Networks

One of the biggest breakthroughs in modern neuroscience has been the understanding of networks in the brain. Functional MRI (fMRI) and other imaging technologies have shown that virtually every task—from solving math problems to composing music—requires cooperation across multiple brain regions. For example, language isn't just processed in the classic "language centers" like Broca’s and Wernicke’s areas. It also involves memory regions, emotional centers, and even motor planning areas, all of which exist in both hemispheres.

Athena compares it to a team sport, and she’s not wrong. The brain’s default mode network, central executive network, and salience network are constantly communicating, regardless of whether you're crunching numbers or painting a landscape. Creativity and logic are not opposites—they often emerge from the same interconnected brain systems.

Why the Myth Still Matters (and How It Hurts)

You might think, “Okay, so the science evolved—what’s the harm in a little personality quiz that says I’m right-brained?” The problem is that the myth encourages self-limiting beliefs. Tracey points out that people who believe they’re “not creative” because they’re “left-brained” may avoid exploring the arts. Similarly, those who identify as “right-brained” might steer clear of math or science.

This kind of mental framing can close off opportunities for growth and learning. Neuroscience tells us that the brain is plastic—it changes in response to learning and experience. If you avoid entire categories of skill development because of an inaccurate brain label, you’re essentially shutting down parts of your potential.

Worse yet, this myth can shape how teachers approach students, how parents guide children, and how people choose careers. It becomes a form of cognitive pigeonholing, encouraging fixed mindsets instead of growth-oriented thinking.

Top 5 Takeaways from the Episode

1. The left-brain/right-brain divide is a myth.While some brain functions may show hemispheric preferences, most complex tasks involve both hemispheres working together.

2. Skills live in networks, not silos.Modern imaging shows that abilities like language, logic, and creativity are supported by distributed, interconnected brain systems.

3. Believing the myth can limit your potential.Labeling yourself as "not creative" or "not logical" can prevent you from exploring new skills and interests.

4. Brain plasticity means you’re always growing.The brain is constantly adapting and reshaping itself. You are never locked into one way of thinking.

5. Embrace your whole brain.Instead of boxing yourself into a category, recognize that your brain is capable of both analytical and creative thought.

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A Whole-Brain Approach to Learning and Life

The takeaway? You are not half a brain. You're not limited to logic or creativity, math or art, detail or big-picture thinking. You are a dynamic, evolving human being with a brain that is far more versatile than the myths suggest.

So the next time someone calls you “left-brained” or “right-brained,” take a moment to bust the myth. Tell them the truth: your brain is working as a whole, interconnected powerhouse—combining emotion, memory, logic, creativity, and intuition in everything you do.

By freeing ourselves from this outdated narrative, we unlock the full potential of who we are—and who we can become.