9 unusual habits that indicate a high level of intelligence, according to psychology

Intelligence isn’t always showcased through grades or high IQ scores. Sometimes, it peeks through our habits, even the quirkiest ones.

Psychology tells us that there are certain unconventional habits that could signal a higher level of intelligence. Yes, you heard me right! Those peculiar habits you have, might just be a sign of your brainy side.

Here’s a quick glimpse into nine unusual habits that could be indicating your intelligence. So, let’s dive in and see if you can recognize yourself in the lines to follow.

1) Night owls

According to psychology, being a night owl is not just about late-night Netflix binges. It might actually signal a higher level of intelligence.

Intriguing, isn’t it? It’s all about your chronotype or your natural inclination towards sleeping and waking up at particular times.

Research suggests that people who prefer to stay up late and do their best work in the wee hours have more intellectual capacity. This doesn’t mean early birds are any less intelligent, but it’s a fascinating correlation nonetheless.

So next time when you’re burning the midnight oil, remember, it’s not just insomnia. It could be your brain flexing its intellectual muscles!

2) Daydreaming

Ever been caught drifting off during a meeting or lecture? Turns out, daydreaming might not be such a bad thing after all.

As a chronic daydreamer myself, I’ve had my fair share of raised eyebrows and questions about my attention span. But psychology suggests that daydreaming could be linked to a greater intelligence.

Daydreaming allows your brain to wander and explore possibilities, which can potentially enhance your problem-solving skills and creativity. It’s like taking your brain to the gym for a mental workout.

I remember once during a particularly dry staff meeting, my mind started wandering to an issue I’d been grappling with on a project. To the outsider, it might have looked like I was zoning out, but in reality, my brain was busy at work. By the time the meeting ended, I had figured out an innovative solution that later proved successful.

So, the next time you find yourself lost in thought, don’t be hard on yourself. You might just be exercising your intellectual prowess.

3) Being a bookworm

You’ve heard it before – reading is good for you. But did you know it could be an indication of high intelligence too?

Studies have shown that children who learn to read at an earlier age perform better in cognitive ability tests as they grow older. This correlation continues into adulthood.

But it’s not just about picking up any book. Reading materials that challenge your understanding and push you to think, like classical literature or scientific journals, are particularly beneficial.

So, if you find yourself lost in the pages of a book more often than not, it could be your mind’s way of displaying its intellectual strength. Keep turning those pages!

4) Enjoying alone time

While social interactions are essential, intelligence might be linked to enjoying solitude too. It’s not about being antisocial; instead, it’s about valuing quality over quantity when it comes to relationships.

Psychology suggests that highly intelligent individuals often prefer spending time alone to think, create, or indulge in hobbies. This solitude gives them the space to introspect, analyze, and come up with innovative ideas.

So, if you frequently find yourself seeking some ‘me time’, it might just be your intelligence shining through. It’s not about isolating yourself from everyone; it’s about embracing the power of solitude to ignite your intellectual spark.

5) Being adaptable

Another unusual habit that could indicate high intelligence is adaptability. Being flexible and open to new experiences is often a sign of an agile mind.

Intelligent people are usually curious and eager to learn. They don’t shy away from unfamiliar situations or experiences. Instead, they see them as opportunities to grow and learn.

If you’re someone who thrives in changing environments and adapts quickly to new circumstances, give yourself a pat on the back. Your adaptability might just be a testament to your high intelligence. Remember, being smart isn’t just about knowing a lot, it’s also about learning and adapting when you don’t.

6) Recognizing and expressing emotions

In a society where showing emotions is often seen as a weakness, it can be hard to openly express how you feel. But did you know that being in touch with your emotions might actually point towards higher intelligence?

Psychology talks about emotional intelligence – the ability to recognize, understand, and manage our own emotions, and to empathize with others. This form of intelligence is just as important as cognitive intelligence.

People with high emotional intelligence are often good at navigating social situations and maintaining relationships. They’re aware of their feelings and aren’t afraid to express them.

If you’re someone who wears their heart on their sleeve, don’t stifle it. Embracing your emotions isn’t just brave; it could also be a sign of your intelligence. After all, understanding ourselves and connecting with others is one of the most profound forms of intelligence there is.

7) Curiosity

As a child, I was always asking questions. Why is the sky blue? How do birds fly? Where does rain come from? My curiosity knew no bounds, and I often found myself lost in books or exploring the backyard for answers.

Curiosity is an unusual habit that might signify higher intelligence. It’s all about having a thirst for knowledge and an insatiable desire to understand how the world works.

Intelligent people often exhibit this trait from a young age. They’re not satisfied with surface-level explanations and strive to dig deeper.

So, never quench your curiosity. Let it drive you to learn, grow, and understand. Because curiosity didn’t kill the cat; it made it smarter!

8) Appreciating art and music

Did you know that your love for art and music could be a sign of high intelligence?

People with high IQs often have a deep appreciation for the arts. They enjoy exploring different genres of music, visiting art galleries, or even creating art themselves.

This isn’t about being an artist or a musician. It’s about understanding and appreciating the emotions and thoughts that art and music can evoke. It’s about seeing the world from different perspectives and finding beauty in diversity.

Art and intelligence go hand in hand, each enriching the other.

9) Questioning norms and authority

Highly intelligent people often question the status quo. They aren’t satisfied with just following norms and rules without understanding the reasoning behind them.

They challenge authority, not out of rebellion, but out of a need for logical coherence and fairness. They are not afraid to stand against the crowd if their logic and principles guide them differently.

So, if you frequently find yourself questioning ‘why’ and seeking reasons for established norms, it’s not disobedience. It’s your intelligence asking for rationale and justice. Remember, every great revolution started with a question. And every question is a sign of an inquisitive, intelligent mind.

Eliza Hartley

Eliza Hartley, a London-based writer, is passionate about helping others discover the power of self-improvement. Her approach combines everyday wisdom with practical strategies, shaped by her own journey overcoming personal challenges. Eliza's articles resonate with those seeking to navigate life's complexities with grace and strength.

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