Who doesn’t want to think they’re smarter than average? But how do you know if you really are?
Well, psychology might have some answers.
There are certain signs that suggest you might be more intelligent than the average person. And no, it’s not about having a high IQ or being a human calculator.
It’s about certain traits and behaviors that give you an edge. So let’s explore what these signs are.
1) You’re a curious cat
They say curiosity killed the cat, but in this case, it might just be making you smarter.
Psychology suggests that highly intelligent people tend to have a strong sense of curiosity. They’re always asking questions, always wanting to know more.
It’s not about being nosy or intrusive, but rather about having a deep desire to understand the world around you. It’s about not being satisfied with the surface level and wanting to dig deeper.
Curiosity drives you to learn new things, explore different ideas and challenge your own beliefs. It pushes you to grow and improve, both in knowledge and understanding.
If you find yourself constantly curious about the world around you, it might just be a sign that you’re more intelligent than the average person. But remember, it’s not just about asking questions, but also about seeking answers.
2) You’re a night owl
This one hit me personally. I’ve always been more of a night owl than an early bird. While everyone else is tucked in bed, I find myself to be the most productive and creative.
Turns out, according to psychology, this might be a sign of higher intelligence. Studies suggest that people who stay up late and do their best work in the wee hours tend to score higher on intelligence tests.
It’s like my mind just comes alive when the world is quiet. There’s something about the peace and tranquility of night that frees my thoughts and helps me concentrate better.
I’ve written some of my best articles, solved complex problems and even made major life decisions in the quiet solitude of the night.
If you’re like me, finding your stride when others are winding down, it might not just be insomnia or a messed up body clock. It could very well be a sign of your above average intelligence.
3) You embrace ambiguity
Does uncertainty make you uncomfortable? Or do you relish the thrill of the unknown? Your answer might indicate your intelligence level.
Psychological research suggests that people with higher intelligence are more comfortable with ambiguity. They don’t require absolute certainty or clear-cut answers to every situation.
Moreover, intelligent individuals are more likely to see ambiguity as an opportunity for new ideas and creative solutions rather than a daunting challenge.
Historically, it was the thinkers who could handle ambiguity that made significant discoveries and advancements. For instance, Einstein’s theory of relativity challenged the established norms of physics and presented a whole new perspective on how the universe works.
4) You adapt quickly to change
Life is full of surprises. Plans change, unexpected events happen, and new challenges arise. How you handle these changes might be a good indicator of your intelligence.
Psychology suggests that individuals with higher intelligence are better at adapting to change. They can quickly analyze new situations, understand the implications, and adjust their behavior or plans accordingly.
Being adaptable doesn’t mean you’re always comfortable with change. It can still be stressful and challenging. But it does mean that you’re able to respond effectively rather than being paralyzed by the unexpected.
If you’re someone who can pivot when life throws a curveball, take it as a sign of your above-average intelligence.
5) You’re self-critical
It might seem counterintuitive, but being critical of your own abilities and performance can be a sign of intelligence.
Highly intelligent people are not complacent. They’re always looking for ways to improve and grow. This means they’re often their own harshest critics.
Being self-critical doesn’t mean dwelling on your failures or constantly putting yourself down. Instead, it’s about recognizing your weaknesses and working to turn them into strengths.
6) You value deep conversations
Small talk can be nice. It keeps things light, fills the silence, and can even be fun. But if you crave deep, meaningful conversations, it might be a sign of your intelligence.
Highly intelligent people tend to prefer discussing big ideas and complex issues rather than indulging in idle chit-chat. They find satisfaction in exploring different perspectives, challenging their own beliefs, and gaining a deeper understanding of the world and people around them.
There’s a certain richness and warmth that comes from a conversation that goes beyond the surface level. It connects us on a deeper level, makes us feel seen, heard, and understood.
7) You’re often lost in thought
It can be easy to get lost in the hustle and bustle of everyday life. But if you often find yourself drifting into your own world of thoughts, it might be indicative of your intelligence.
I can’t tell you how many times I’ve missed my bus stop because I was lost in my thoughts. Or how often I find myself staring out the window, deep in thought, while a pile of work awaits me.
Intelligent people tend to have active minds. They’re always thinking, always processing, always questioning. It’s like their mind is on a constant treadmill, running at a pace most people can’t keep up with.
8) You enjoy your own company
Being social is usually seen as a positive trait. But if you’re someone who cherishes solitude, it might be a sign of your intelligence.
Studies suggest that highly intelligent individuals often prefer spending time alone over socializing. They enjoy their own company and find solitude to be refreshing and rejuvenating.
Enjoying solitude doesn’t mean you’re antisocial or introverted. It simply means that you value the quiet moments that allow for self-reflection and inner growth.
When someone labels you a ‘loner’, take it as a compliment. It might just mean you’re more intelligent than they realize!
9) You have a broad range of interests
Have you ever been accused of being a ‘jack of all trades, master of none’? Well, it might just be a sign of your intelligence.
Intelligent people tend to have an array of interests and passions. They’re not confined to one particular field or topic. Instead, they love learning about different things, from art to zoology and everything in between.
Having diverse interests expands your knowledge base and opens your mind to different perspectives. It fosters creativity and innovation and helps you make connections that others might miss.
If you’re someone with varied interests, don’t let anyone make you feel like it’s a weakness. It’s actually a strength and a sign of your intelligence.
10) You’re open-minded
Open-mindedness is perhaps one of the most significant indicators of intelligence.
Intelligent people understand that they don’t know everything. They are open to new experiences, ideas, and perspectives. They are willing to challenge their own beliefs and are not afraid to change their mind when presented with compelling evidence.
Being open-minded doesn’t mean blindly accepting everything you hear or read. It means being receptive and thoughtful, carefully considering different viewpoints before forming your own opinion.
Reflecting on intelligence
Intelligence is more than just a number on an IQ test. It’s a diverse and complex trait, influenced by a multitude of factors including our genetics, upbringing, experiences, and even our personal preferences.
These signs we’ve discussed are not definitive proof of high intelligence. They’re simply indications that suggest you might be more intelligent than average. But remember, everyone is unique and intelligence can manifest in many different ways.
So whether you relate to all of these signs, some, or even none at all, it doesn’t diminish your worth or potential. Intelligence isn’t the only measure of a person’s value. Kindness, empathy, resilience, and many other traits are equally important.
At the end of the day, what truly matters is not how intelligent you are compared to others, but how you use your intelligence to make a positive impact in the world.
So take a moment to reflect on these signs. And whatever your level of intelligence may be, continue to foster it. Keep learning, keep growing, and keep striving to be the best version of yourself.
