Intelligence isn’t always about acing tests or having an extensive vocabulary.
Sometimes, it’s the subtle behaviors that hint at someone’s above-average intelligence.
Psychologists point out that there are certain behaviors, often overlooked, which could indicate a higher level of intelligence.
In this article, I’m going to delve into seven of these behaviors that might just prove you’re smarter than the average bear.
Grab your cup of coffee and let’s dive right in:
1) Curiosity is key
Have you ever noticed how some people seem to have an insatiable thirst for knowledge?
They’re always asking questions, constantly reading or researching, and never seem satisfied with a basic understanding of anything.
This is no accident: According to psychologists, a high level of curiosity is one of the most revealing signs of above-average intelligence.
It’s this unending quest for knowledge, this constant desire to understand the world around us that sets the truly intelligent apart.
If you find yourself constantly seeking answers and never settling for the status quo, chances are you have an above-average intelligence.
It’s not just about asking questions—it’s about seeking meaningful answers and striving for deeper understanding.
2) Emotional intelligence
We often think of intelligence in terms of IQ scores and academic achievements.
But psychologists assert that emotional intelligence—the ability to understand and manage emotions—is a significant indicator of above-average intelligence.
Growing up, I always admired my grandmother’s ability to read people.
She could walk into a room and instantly sense the mood.
She’d know when to crack a joke, when to offer words of comfort, and when to just sit quietly by someone’s side.
Her emotional intelligence was off the charts, and I believe it was one of the key factors behind her success in both her personal and professional life.
Those who can bridge the gap between these two minds, balancing logic with empathy, are often those with above-average intelligence.
3) Adaptability and resilience
Have you ever been thrown a curveball that completely upended your plans? How did you react?
For me, one of the toughest moments in my life was losing my job due to company-wide layoffs.
It felt like my world was collapsing.
But instead of wallowing in self-pity, I took it as an opportunity to pivot.
I used that time to upskill, explore new career paths and ultimately landed in a role that I find far more fulfilling.
Psychologists suggest that this ability to adapt in the face of adversity is a sign of above-average intelligence.
It’s about being resilient, bouncing back from hardships, and using those experiences to grow and evolve.
If you’re someone who can take life’s twists and turns in stride, learning and growing with each challenge, you’re likely smarter than you give yourself credit for.
4) Enjoying solitude
There’s a common misconception that solitude equates to loneliness, but that’s far from the truth.
Some of the most intelligent people I know prefer their own company – using that time to reflect, explore new ideas, or simply unwind.
Interestingly, a 2016 study published in the British Journal of Psychology found a correlation between intelligence and enjoying time alone.
The study suggested that while people, in general, tend to be happier when they spend more time with others, highly intelligent individuals are an exception to this rule—they reported greater life satisfaction when they had more time for solitude.
If you’re someone who cherishes your alone time, it might just be a sign of your above-average intelligence.
It’s not about being antisocial, but about knowing the value of introspection and self-reflection.
5) Appreciation for simple pleasures
There’s something to be said for those who can find joy in the simple things.
A beautiful sunset, a good book, a hearty laugh with a friend—if you’re someone who appreciates these moments, you might just have above-average intelligence.
I remember my dad, a man of few words but profound wisdom, always took time to appreciate the little things.
He taught me the value of slowing down and truly experiencing life’s simple pleasures.
High intelligence is also about being mindful, aware, and appreciative of the world around us.
The next time you catch yourself pausing to watch a butterfly flutter by or simply enjoying a peaceful moment of silence, remember—it’s a subtle sign of your intelligence.
6) Embracing uncertainty
Most people crave certainty and predictability.
However, if you’re someone who finds comfort in uncertainty, you may have above-average intelligence.
This might sound counterintuitive.
After all, isn’t intelligence about having answers? But the truth is, intelligence often means recognizing the vastness of what we don’t know.
It’s about embracing the unknown and seeing it not as a threat, but an opportunity to learn and grow.
This ability to feel deeply and perceive nuances can make one more vulnerable to the uncertainties of life.
However, it’s this very sensitivity that can also fuel creativity and innovation—both hallmarks of high intelligence.
If you’re comfortable with uncertainty, it might just be your intelligence shining through.
7) Self-awareness
The final behavior that indicates above-average intelligence is self-awareness.
It’s the ability to introspect and understand your own thoughts, behaviors, and motivations.
If you’re someone who is in tune with your strengths, weaknesses, and emotions, it’s a strong sign of your intellectual prowess.
Give yourself a pat on the back, your self-awareness is a testament to your above-average intelligence.
Wrapping it up
Intelligence is a multifaceted gem, with each facet reflecting a different aspect of our mental capabilities.
It’s not just about solving complex equations or acing standardized tests.
These seven behaviors—curiosity, emotional intelligence, adaptability, appreciation for solitude, valuing simple pleasures, comfort with uncertainty, and self-awareness—each add a unique sparkle to the gem that is human intelligence.
As you navigate through life, remember to look beyond the obvious signs of intelligence.
There’s a lot more to it than meets the eye and, who knows? You might just discover that you’re far more intelligent than you’ve been giving yourself credit for.
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